Dear Family and Friends,
If you live long enough, you know what it feels like to be lied to, cheated or taken advantage of… and in reflection or at present you know the pain and suffering that comes with that.
I want to take this opportunity to share with you, our family and friends, the great disappointment and suffering Kathy and I, along with others, have experienced in the last several weeks. To those of you who already are aware of the situation Kathy and I find ourselves in, we thank you for your prayers and kind words.
Out of respect for our relationship, I don’t want to be vague, and therefore, this letter is a bit lengthy. Thanks for taking the time to read it.
On May 15, 2009, I was totally shocked to learn that we along with many others had been hurt by what is now alleged to be a deceitful investment scheme – a very long and elaborate con. My mistake was in trusting someone I believed to be a friend. I believed the words of this person that I have known for years and this apparent deception has led me down a path that has brought pain to many, as well as my family. What appeared to be a wonderful investment opportunity that would help my family and strengthen the Lord’s work is turning out to be quite the opposite. What a shock to read my name in the SEC report and the newspapers in the same paragraph where the word ponzi scheme is written. I suppose being somewhat high profile; the newspaper reporter felt it necessary to name my brother and me as some of the investors and as people that were used by this trader to introduce some people to alleged scam.
I am filled with regret and am greatly disturbed that I told some family and friends of what I thought was a great blessing. Several of them in turn asked to meet with this person to find out details about this opportunity, and that resulted in some of them investing and subsequently some of them losing their investment. There were five relatives and ten Friends that I am sad to say I first introduced into this opportunity. I should have gone to great lengths with due-diligence getting the proper help to critically look into my investor friend’s activities and this opportunity. Unfortunately, I cannot wind back the clock.
This investor person said he wanted to help my family as well as strengthen the ministry that God has led Kathy and me into by giving us a percentage out of the profit that he was making for his role as the trader. As I did not have much money to invest in the first place, I thought this offer was a further blessing. However, I came to find out over a year later that one apparently needs a license to get any compensation when it comes to the stock market. The monies I did take out, I gave to charities and others in need. The primary charity I gave to was Heaven’s Rehearsal where Kathy and I have been volunteering since 2005 as co-chairs. We still drive the same two cars and live in the same house but find ourselves in the worst financial position we have ever been in.
I have been one of the many people interviewed by the OSC (Ontario Securities Commission) as they have been trying to gather information on this trader. I was happy to help in any way I could. I appreciate their directive to stop abuses to the system and to protect people from being cheated and taken advantage of. By the way, I must clear up a misconception held by some – There are NO allegations that I was involved with or had any knowledge of the wrongful conduct of the trader. I am grateful to say that those relatives and friends that I introduced to what I thought was a great opportunity are not holding me responsible for any losses they might have realized. They have all been gracious and kind. In fact, I feel that our relationship will be deeper as we “together†are going through something that is painful.
Please realize that the sadness in our hearts is not about our financial position, but for our friends and family who have been hurt. As well, our concern is about our relationship with you and others and how this might affect the ministries we have been called to serve.
Before God and you, my friends, I assure you that my motives were pure and that I had the best intentions for everyone involved. It has always been my desire that the Kingdom of God is strengthened and people are blessed. It appears that my name has been dragged through the mud of someone else’s making. All truth-be-known… – I have not compromised my integrity and continue to look for God to redeem this situation. What was intended for evil, I believe, God will turn to good.
During the upcoming months of further investigation, it has been determined that it is best that I do not host 100 Huntley Street. I am confident that God is working and leading me to a place where I can to a greater degree express His heart of love for His people. This difficult season is developing in me understanding and compassion for others who have suffered as a result of deception and loss. I feel this refiners fire will accomplish all that God desires. My faith has grown stronger during this time. I am encouraged by the biblical story of Joseph. God allowed Joseph to go through far more difficult times than I will ever have to go through. He was rejected and falsely accused, and yet the valley he went through led him to a place of great blessing and God’s plans being fulfilled.
I cannot begin to tell you the degree of sorrow and remorse I feel over these circumstances. We remain in fervent prayer day and night over this situation. I have repented before the Lord for not discerning truth from a lie and for any negative fallout.Please join us in prayer for the Crossroads 100 Huntley Street Board as they are doing their very best. Also, pray for the others who have been hurt by this scheme. Let us also pray for this investor person and for his family.
Thank you so much for the support Kathy and I feel through your love and prayers
In God’s amazing embrace of love,
Reynold Mainse
The SEC Complaint May 14, 2009 (.pdf)Â
The SEC News Release naming ‘Ontario Christian Television Ministry’
OSC Enforcement Order April 15/amended April 29, 2009)
The Hamilton Spectator May 21, 2009
I added the pictures in this post for clarity.
1. Reynold and Kathy Mainse Crossroads Christian Communications Hosts of 100 Huntley Street, VP of Missions
2. Gordon Driver Axcess Automation/Funds
3. David Rutledge former Director of Ministries Crossroads Christian Communications, former employee Axcess Funds
Timeline
I have been told Reynold Mainse lost 4 hundred thousand dollars; which according to the letter above he “gave to charities, people in need”, and “Heaven’s Rehearsal“, a rock concert held at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto. I do not know what Ron Mainse invested, gained or lost. While there have been rumours their mother was among the investors I cannot confirm that, nor can I confirm the amount Reynold lost. I trust my sources, but I think clarity needs to come from those involved.
Reynold Mainse says he involved 5 to 10 friends and family (a few of the second wave of Axcess Automation/Funds investors).
This is now confirmation that people who trusted 100 Huntley Street were harmed and investments went beyond family members.
Canadian Christianity confirmed both Reynold and Ron Mainse had taken a ministry and leadership investment stewardship course.
This letter from Reynold Mainse comes as Gordon Driver heads to a California court again this week.
Media, bloggers and interested parties – Grab a screen shot of this post,  please. Just in case.
Again, my deepest gratitude to a BDBO reader who has conducted his life and ministry with transparency, honesty, clarity and in the interests of those he serves.
Iron sharpens iron.
This is the preamble to Reynold Mainse letter posted above, and this peramble is why I’ve asked others do do screenshots.
This should be a public document.
There is a lot to unpack and discuss especially for investors, but also for viewers, donors, the public and for charity and ministry leaders in Canada who lead ethically.
“Hi Family and Friends,
I am sending this email to only those I know personally.
Many people are wondering… “What’s up with the Mainse brothers and this investment…ponzi ? Why are they not hosting 100 Huntley Street?… What really happened?
I wrote the attached PDF to bring clarity to a situation that has become full of assumptions and misrepresentation. The questions many people have… newspapers, blogs, water-cooler talk, church lobbies, etc are all surrounding the particulars of what has turned out to be a bad investment and apparently a ponzi scheme. As this will now become a public document, I have been very careful to lay out the clear truth and am willing to substantiate what I have said.
The attached PDF should answer many questions and hopefully be one of the keys to getting out of this difficult valley we find ourselves in.
Be Blessed and thanks for your prayers,
Be Blessed
Reynold Mainse”
Pingback: 100 Huntley Street/Crossroads, alleged ponzi scheme timeline at Bene Diction Blogs On
I invested money with Gordon. He answered all my questions. He gave it back with interest when I abruptly needed it back.
Over the last three years I spoke with Gordon off and on about what he was doing. He was always speaking about helping people. He never wanted to simply make money for the sake of money. He spoke of investing money in ministries, building those up and sending aid to needy folks.
I witnessed his generosity firsthand because I sent someone to him, and Gordon extended a helping hand.
Was he just blowing smoke? Was this all a ruse simply to bilk people? Was the talk of charity and church association simply the window dressing used by a con man? I don’t know. It may very well be that simple.
I went to a website and looked up “ponzi scheme” and found the following statement; “I want to alert you to the fact that it may not always be clear that a debtor was in fact operating a Ponzi Scheme and I have been involved in cases where over zealous prosecutors applied this label to legitimate businessmen who became hopelessly overextended, made poor business decisions and pursued fiscal strategies that were totally unrealistic in hindsight.”
Until there is more evidence, maybe we should suspend judgment until such a time as Gordon Driver answers these allegations or there are more concrete affirmations of wrongdoing by the courts.
I know nobody will do this… but at this point, the owner of this website is using the word “alleged”… but then pretty much standing in judgment that this is a fait accompli when the fat lady is only warming up.
Hi Walter, your comment has been deleted, please stick to topic. – BD
Hi Walter:
Haven’t heard from Ron, did you mean Reynold?:^)
Hi David:
“I want to alert you to the fact that it may not always be clear that a debtor was in fact operating a Ponzi Scheme and I have been involved in cases where over zealous prosecutors applied this label to legitimate businessmen who became hopelessly overextended, made poor business decisions and pursued fiscal strategies that were totally unrealistic in hindsight.â€
I’ve posted about investment and intent previously.
The law takes intent into account.
Ignorance of the law is not an excuse to break the law.
The court will decide if Mr. Driver used 3.7 million of the 14.1 million for trades.
The court will decide if 95% of that 3.7 million was lost.
The court will decide if an account statement was falsified and sent to an investor working with finders, to say there was 34.7 million in the bank when there was 11 thousand.
The court will decide if 10.7 million was used to pay some investors.
The court will decide if 1.1 million was used for personal expenses.
Charged with:
1) fraudulently soliciting commodity pool participants
2)misappropriating participants’ funds
3) issuing false statements
The plaintiffs are seeking:
a)preliminary and permanent injunctive relief
b)restitution
c)disgorgement of ill-gotten gains
d)civil monetary penalties, and other relief.
Gordon Driver is being given the opportunity to face a jury of his peers in a civil trial.
Doesn’t mean he isn’t generous and a nice guy; people describe him as charming and attentive.
The US is way ahead of Canada dealing with white collar crime, I don’t have the exact figure, but I believe with the OSC it’s 6:1.
I think it is important to use the correct terminology.
The court documents and news releases regarding Axcess Automation/Funds are available to you on this blog.
And yes, of course I’m using alleged. That’s the law.
Gordon Driver wouldn’t be before a court if the charges weren’t alleged.
P.I.T.
Promise, illusion, trust
“Affinity fraud is when one person gains the trust of others because they share the same religion, race, ethnicity, career or other social characteristic and then deceives them in some kind of financial transaction.
Ponzi schemes, by contrast, operate strictly by paying earlier investors with money deposited by later investors without the emphasis on recruitment or awareness of participation structure.
Pyramid schemes, also referred to as “chain referral”, “binary compensation” or “matrix marketing” schemes, are marketing and investment frauds which reward participants for inducing other people to join the program.”
http://www.crimes-of-persuasion.com/Crimes/Delivered/pyramids.htm
I don’t know what David is thinking but the SEC complaint gives us real warning signs that something is wrong with the actions by Driver and leaders of an Ontario Christian Television ministry:
Of the $14.1-million the scheme allegedly raised, the SEC says Mr. Driver used $1.1-million for personal expenses and $10.7-million to pay purported returns to investors in Ponzi fashion. He only used $3.7-million to trade futures, and rather than making the substantial profits that he represented to investors, he actually incurred $3.55-million in trading losses, the SEC alleges.
According to the complaint, Mr. Driver initially solicited friends, neighbours and business acquaintances to invest in Axcess.
The SEC alleges that his scheme flourished in mid-2007 when he recruited leaders of an Ontario Christian television ministry where he had worked in the 1970s. “Close relatives of the television ministry’s founder invested in Axcess and became finders or ‘point persons’ for Axcess,” the complaint states. The SEC says these finders solicited new investors, mostly friends and family, to participate in the scheme. For their efforts, the finders were allegedly offered a 5-per-cent commission.
If things are as this letter represents, why the need for day and night prayer and the comparison to Joseph who’s circumstances were far worse? They have lost neither home nor possessions, they anticipate going back to work on Huntley St. after the investigations. Their friends and family are supportive and not blaming them. It seems inconsistent, and leaves me wondering if the situation is worse than Reynold is telling in his statement.
More than once he talks about “strengthening the kingdom of God” with money – but the kingdom of God is not of this world, the kingdom of God is within us – now I see the deception here – it is not money that strengthens the kingdom of God, it is Christlikeness – it is as Christ in us is revealed through the rending of our veil of flesh that the kingdom of God is strengthened and advanced.
What I am thinking, good Walter, is to let the man have his day in court.
You all are using the word “alleges”… and then jumping all over Gordon like it is a done deal.
And it may be that there is absolutely no excuse for it. But let’s wait for it to be clear, no?
I found Mr. Wilkinson’s comments wholly inappropriate, using this occasion to bring up something that happened with Gordon over 30 years ago even though he had no proof that anything happened… but he linked the two things and slurred Driver’s character in the process with his innuendo. Well, I am 73.8% sure Gordon screwed me out of a job when we were teenagers … figures that he is at the center of this scandal. All that was left was the Jack Chick “HAR HAR HAR!” (Paul will understand that reference, I’m sure…).
Look…I am not sticking up for the guy. He may be as guilty as sin. I am arguing for some common decency that you all would wish you had if there by the grace of God you went.
Give the guy his due process before you beat your breasts and tear your clothes in twain.
Don’t feel good about using the word “alleges”… and then in the next breath throw the guy under the bus. Wait for the bus to arrive first. Smoke doesn’t always mean fire.
1.Why doesn’t Reynold Mainse name Gordon Driver and David Rutledge?
2. I believe he is genuinely speaking from where he is at.
The preamble is odd; there has been very little media coverage, a few forums, blogs, a few financial blogs in the US, 2 Christian magazines in Canada, the Hamilton Spec.
About 30 Canadian media picked up wire copy that misused the term ‘church funds.’
Shoot the messengers is classic deflection. I wonder if the miniscule media coverage is genuinely perceived as a lot to Mr. Mainse, since he and Crossroads don’t control it. Do they seek more so can claim more victimhood?
4. After 3 months I doubt people are bothering to gossip.
5. This is a personal letter – a lot of spiritualizing and rambling vagueness, not accountability.
Is he qualified to lead a multi million dollar charity?
- not my fault
- I’m a trusting guy
- we have the same cars and house (renovated with Axcess money?)
- we are suffering victims
- I did this for God
- family and friends don’t blame me, so don’t blame me
- I used finders fees to help people, I’m a nice guy
- I’m high profile, so I’m a target
- the coverage of me isn’t fair
- I’m being dragged through the mud
- I did this for God
- I identify with Joseph, I’m a good leader
- I did this to minister and help you
- I only told a few people, sorry
- I did this for God
- I didn’t know a licence was needed
- people got hurt but I’m glad I got in
- one apparently needs a license to get any compensation when it comes to the stock market (incorrect)
- I did this for God
- let’s move on, I need you to get back to supporting my business interests
- I’ve repented
- I’m co-operating with investors, I’m a nice guy
- I did this for God
- I should be forgiven
- lets move on, I should be back at Crossroads
- I’ve got people on ‘my side’
- people who also lost are lumped into ‘negative fallout’
- I did this for God
What am I missing?
JMS 1:16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren.
JMS 1:22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
David
You want to believe that there is nothing wrong when already the whole behaviour of the Mainses in this scandalous saga shows that something is drastically wrong!
They have not come clean with the whole story and the fact that the nepotism of David Mainse ministry created this whole mess!
It seems the Mainse family on both sides is quite involved in this alleged ponzi crime as well as with Crossroads! This is an area you definately are not discussing for after all David is a great and godly man of God who can do no wrong?
Deception of any sorts ultimately leads to destruction. Dan Strader the son of a prominent Pentecostal Preacher was deceived that he didn’t do anything wrong by conducting a ponzi scheme which he said was a real business! And I believe that the Mainse are also deceived that they have do nothing wrong!
But if they didn’t wrong how did they get into this mess since the steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord?
No God is exposing a lot of things here and I believe we are only seeing the tip of the iceburg in spite of what the legal system says or does!
Walter,
You didn’t read what I wrote. I was speaking about Gordon Driver. And I certainly didn’t say I didn’t believe anything was wrong.
All of these things are alleged, no? The guy needs due process.
And as for nepotism, since when is that a problem? Who doesn’t surround themselves with friends and family? You are a little off kilter, Walter, if you think that the heart of this story is nepotism. Pull down the entire PAOC, then, for that matter. Name me a church where the pastor’s son doesn’t go to the head of the line because he is the pastor’s son. Name me the business where this doesn’t happen.
Nepotism may be a bad idea. But it certainly isn’t wrong. Grow up Walter… what’s wrong…some pastor’s kid get a job you wanted?
Too…why should the Mainses tell you everything that is going on? What company tells all of its behind the scenes stuff? Do you really think all of this stuff is any of your business?
They are responsible to tell you that they made a mistake, and that they will do anything they can to help those that have been affected. If in due time it comes true that the Mainse boys were being paid a commission to send people to Gordon, then they should have said that up front.
But what other information that you want, you’re going to have to dig for yourself. Don’t whine and complain that they aren’t telling you. This is the job of the journalist, to ferret out the information.
Do your job, then, if you want to know. Don’t cry that someone isn’t handing you all the information. You aren’t owed anything more than they have given.
He only invested $400,000.00 and money is tight?
Okey dokey….
I work on charity boards and as a board member I am 100% accountable for the agencies actions.
Period.
Reynolds letter reflects piety and pity. In the end since he only referred “15 people” why is he not accountable?
If someone from the organization approached me about investing, money management etc. I would be very suspect. The financial statements should be reviewed monthly.
To the commenter who felt the letter was ‘annoying’ I have to agree. It really doesn’t say much about the real issues.
@Sherm
“In the end since he only referred “15 people†why is he not accountable? ” . . . .
He certainly is accountable even if it was just one other
person getting a referral. It’s analogous to the adulterer
who says it was just the once.
It doesn’t lessen the committing of an offense.
David:
I agree with you.
Sherm:
I agree with you.
Walter:
If cutting and pasting contextual, non contextual and abstract excerpts from Scripture were an olympic sport I think it would be safe to say that you would easily earn a gold medal.
Everything in life has consequences as Driver, Mainse, Rutledge et al are discovering as the inexorable process of law grinds on in this alleged ponzi scheme. It will all take time to work through.
Meantime try and take some time for yourself to sniff the roses.
By the silence I guess David is David Mainse?
BD: Okay Walter, that’s it. David is not David Mainse and even if he was he would be treated with respect at BDBO. You have broken the play nice rule three times in the last 24 hours. You are banned for 2 weeks. You want to talk, you can email me.
Walter,
You made the outrageous statement that because of David Mainse’s nepotism, this is the reason all of this is happening.
That is simply a dumb statement to make.
So, I’m sorry if I then used that to make inferences about you. I should have simply cut at your statement.
And no, you aren’t entitled to an opinion that isn’t true. Just because someone practices nepotism doesn’t mean anything. Nepotism can work in your favor sometimes.
To suggest that he surrounded himself with friends and family begs the question of you… why are you so against nepotism? And what proof do you bring that it is wrong?
… but even more important… why am I arguing with this guy when he would make such a dumb comment.
Okay… I just convinced myself…
Walter: BD here. Your comment has been deleted. You may not personally attack commenters.
David said: “Name me a church where the pastor’s son doesn’t go to the head of the line because he is the pastor’s son. Name me the business where this doesn’t happen.”
That’s exactly the problem, the church of Jesus Christ is not supposed to be a business. My unsaved brother said to me today, speaking about Christianity from his point of view, “It’s all just a big business enterprise.” He is so right, as I have been realizing more and more lately. It’s truly interesting to me how the lost can see the hypocrisy so much more clearly than believers. But there is much the professing evangelical church has to answer for before the Lord because I have seen first-hand how my oldest son and husband have both kept away from the church because of her preoccupation with serving mammon, and it makes me wonder how many countless more souls remain in darkness for this reason.
Is it not the Lord who appoints apostles, pastors, prophets in HIS house, not presumptuous flesh? What I see is that when a ministry or church does not have the Spirit to follow, their only recourse is to make the decisions themselves that the Lord would have preferred to make.
When the Lord exposes sin in His house, it is not His mercy? He is giving the last opportunity to repent before…..ichabod. The sad result of refusing mercy.
But simply because David Mainse’s two sons are in this venture doesn’t mean that there is anything wrong with that.
And part of being good stewards of what God gave us to control over is that we do things in a right and orderly fashion, and to some extent that means fiscal responsibility and accountability, and it means running certain things like a business.
Let’s not be naive, folks. Too often God’s people are incredible simplistic when it comes to the realities of living in this world. They quote out of context Bible verses and beat their chests suggesting that life should go back to some more primitive time when everything was so much better. The problem being, of course, is that they are looking back to that time with rose-colored glasses on, or drudging up a time that was no less chaotic, but might not have had the type of chaos that we deal with today.
These men tried to invest money. They did so perhaps in the hopes that they could benefit others. The SEC stepped in and now everyone is in a panic.
We don’t know what happened. Neither do they. Part of the reason that the statement from Reynold Mainse is so vague is because they can’t speak to Gordon Driver because of the impending legal ramifications. But because people are panicking, and Reynold wants to save face, he is telling you what he knows.
But until everything comes out, there might be a whole lot more to this story than anyone anticipated, so much so that everyone is vindicated. Have we ever thought that might be the truth here?
More later…
david
Yes David, Ron and Reynold Mainse invested and lost.
Yes David, people do wrong things for right reasons.
Yes David, people have a right and responsibility to weigh character and choices.
Yes David, there is more to this story.
Yes David, lawyers keep parties separated when concerns are before courts.
Vindicated:
1. To clear of accusation, blame, suspicion, or doubt with supporting arguments or proof
2. To provide justification or support for: vindicate one’s claim.
3. To justify or prove the worth of, especially in light of later developments.
4. To defend, maintain, or insist on the recognition of (one’s rights, for example).
5. To exact revenge for; avenge.
I think you are way behind about people panicking.
Some a few months ago, the panic is long over for most.
Look at the timeline.
Who is panicking?
Reynold Mainse is telling his story, it is his to tell, and it is where he is at.
Actually someone said he is currently on vacation in western Canada white water rafting, but you get the drift.
Donors, viewers, ministry leaders, employees, friends and the public are weighing his words.
When he speaks again, they’ll be weighed again.
The SEC and OSC and CFTC stepped in.
An audit was done.
Let’s not be niave here, the investigators aren’t finished, the court isn’t finished.
This is about a media business that made poor communication and relational choices.
This is about asking if charities and ministries in Canada can identify and learn from those mistakes.
This is about asking what kind of leadership Canadian viewers expect, need and want from donor based religious media organizations.
Most of all this is about 100 investors finding their voices and finding their way.
No one is panicking here.
“If anything, I am hoping for an organization which is transparent, accessible, and though fallible, authentic. I want to hear the full story, the humbling story—not one coated with religious mumbo-jumbo where image is more valued than substance. That’s where this story began; it doesn’t need to end there.” Mark Petersen
David, you are talking human/fleshly reasoning – the church does not run by human logic but by the Spirit. Human reasoning is “the way that seemeth right to a man, but it’s end is death thereof”. Spiritual people are led by the Spirit, and the Spirit does not lead us to violate His own word. Instead of looking to our own minds to find our way ( remember that our minds are carnal, fleshly, corrupt and at enmity with God), let’s allow the washing of the water of the word to transform our minds:
“No-one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and mammon.” Matt. 6:24
Serving both God and mammon means we are not serving God, because no-one can serve two masters. It’s impossible, an oxymoron.
“Like a partridge that hatches eggs it did not lay is the man who gains riches by unjust means. When his life is half gone, they will desert him, and in the end he will prove to be a fool.” Jer. 17:11
“Unjust means” is not talking about criminal means necessarily, it is talking about money gained without justly earning it or rightly inheriting it – gambling, stock market speculation falls into this category. Our whole economic system is corrupt according to the word of God.
The issue here for me is not about legal culpability, I’ve said before that I doubted the Mainse’s knowingly did anything wrong legally, just my intuition from watching them on TV from time to time, and I hope I’m right. But the much more important issue is that our holy God is calling our attention to mammon in His holy house!
From what I have seen, the gospel does not belong on television, at least not in a regular running program. It’s just like politics, it cannot survive doing things God’s way – by it’s nature it descends into manipulation, dependance on mammon, and other forms of worldly corruption to survive in a fallen world. This is why we are told a soldier of the Lord does not get involved in the affairs of this world if He wants to please His commanding officer. We cannot serve both…
Politics and television are certainly the affairs of this world – God’s way of changing hearts is not through politics, not through good clean television, but through the simple preaching of the gospel, but who in the church even knows what that is any more? It’s the end of days and the church has lost the revelation and power of the gospel and is therefore relying more and more on carnal methods, the “time of the gentiles” is pretty much over, but that’s another topic..
David said: “Too…why should the Mainses tell you everything that is going on? What company tells all of its behind the scenes stuff? Do you really think all of this stuff is any of your business?”
Wow, this is an absolutely shocking statement to make about a group who call themselves a Christian ministry and rely on the sacrifices of Christian donors and volunteers to get by. If this is true about Crossroads, they should stop lying about being a ministry and just start selling commercial spots, not to mention paying a fair wage to their volunteers. No need to remind anyone about the scriptures so appropriately posted by Walter about how God’s people are found walking in the light.
So which is it, ministry or business, is it God or mammon they are serving?
Therese…why can’t these men be both spiritually astute AND good businessmen? Why does it have to be one or the other? And why do you assume that being an astute business person isn’t a spiritual gifting?
Doesn’t the Bible talk of one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit being administration? I think it does.
But here you are saying that this gift is somehow fleshly…right?
If what you are saying is that the concerns of business are becoming more important than spiritual matters, then I think you have a point. If there is evidence of chasing after money, or building buildings, or leaving an extravagant legacy at the expense of the people of God … I am with you.
But have you compared David Mainse’s 100 Huntley Street to what goes on down here in the United States? I think as Canadians we should be proud that here is a guy that has pretty much stayed above a lot of the same nonsense that the American televangelists fall prey to so easily.
They perhaps made a mistake here. That happens to people. You say that them not telling everything is a sign of bad faith seeing as how they exist on donations from their viewing public. Have you ever thought that they are under strict orders by whatever counsel they have had to hire to see them through this mess that they can’t speak about the case at all.
We exist in this fleshly world. There are fleshly rules that we have to abide by. It’s nice to think that everything is all spiritual, but until we graduate to heaven, that won’t be the reality that any of us exist within.
peace
BD,
I am all for you seeking out the truth. There needs to be more people who do what you do. In another life, I do this sort of thing as well.
But you have to be careful about how you tread. And you have to make sure that you have at least given all sides their fair shake or at least attempted to speak with them.
The rush to judgment… that can’t be reversed.
I did a bit of digging myself and found that the person from the Hamilton Spectator didn’t call Gordon Driver and ask any questions from him before they ran that piece.
Is that fair?
How would you like to wake up tomorrow morning with your name splashed across the headlines … headlines that nobody bothered to ask for your rebuttal … and have yourself tried and convicted in the court of public opinion before you get a chance to open your mouth?
And the people of God… those that are supposed to maybe give the benefit of the doubt herein… maybe wait a few seconds to see what shakes out … maybe think that the government has made a critical mistake here … maybe wait until the accused gets a chance to give his side. I dunno… be fair?
Look at Mark Cuban, the flamboyant owner of the Dallas Mavericks basketball team. An overzealous prosecutor accused him of insider trading. And Mark Cuban has been recently vindicated of all charges. But the affects of that charge will never go away. And Mark Cuban, rightly, is going to sue the living daylights out of everyone because of it.
There are repercussions to the rush to judgment.
All I am saying is that there is another side to the story, and that story hasn’t been told. You want to report it, do so. I applaud you for that. But be cautious that you stick to the facts here, that these things are “alleged.” They haven’t been proven. Not yet anyway.
Public relations -a definition:
Efforts to establish and maintain a company’s image with the public.
(REF: http://www.investorwords.com/3946/public_relations.html )
Damage control – a definition:
An effort to minimize or curtail damage or loss.
(REF: wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn)
The wall of silence from the Crossroads board has given birth to an unhealthy speculation and an unfortunate and unsavory atmosphere of innuendo. Their obvious silence has carried a double jeopardy that they may actually have anticipated as they are closer to the known facts than most. It is a strategic path they have chosen to take. Time will tell whether they were right and whether or not it has been a major deflection tactic.
Meantime the letter from Reynold M appears to be his own heart felt effort to initiate communication and to establish an understanding among ‘family and friends’. It is apparent he is inviting his words to be weighed and that he is appealing for the presumption of innocence to which he is entitled as is anyone else unless or until proven otherwise. In the circumstances this appears to be his best shot at explaining himself within the legal and other constraints he must now be under. He obviously cannot say any more as much as he may wish to. As BD comments ‘it’s where he (Reynold) is at…’
Let us not forget there are wives, children and extended family members who are having to deal with this situation every day. It must be very hard for them. The fact that people have lost considerable sums of money in this alleged ponzi scheme will not be lost on them. The fact that some people may be in the process of losing their homes will not be lost on them. The fact that people are hurting big time as a result of this sad and sorry tale is established. The stake is in the ground as far as hurt and loss is concerned.
The full story has yet to be told. And it will. But it will take months and months. And there are many sides to the story.
For those within and without the Christian community now is not a time to jump to conclusions or ever to incite with incendiary words and suppositions. Some of the writings I have seen in the context of the alleged Driver ponzi scheme have fallen well short of the standard to which those who would describe themselves as Christians are called to. Personal attacks and the presumption of guilt when the presumption of innocence should prevail has been disconcerting to say the least.
Proverbs 22:1 :-
A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, Loving favor rather than silver and gold.
Nothing can immediately buy back a good name (reputation) when it is lost. A good reputation is a very precious thing. It must be cradled gently. It can be lost in seconds of official judgement and can be the hardest thing to win back.
It is a time to be diligent in understanding the situation. Let us not jump to conclusions. 2 2 has always = 4. Not 3 or 5. It is a time to pray. It is a time to show grace and to allow love to have first place. See what God has to say about these things. Study the Word. Don’t rely on the sound or unsound views/ rantings/ whatever of others. Find out for yourself. Perhaps see how God might be using this situation to have people return to His Word to find out what He has to say about these things.
Ask yourself how you would wish to be treated if ever you were caught up in a situation such as this. Or if your husband, wife, son or daughter, friend etc were to be caught up in a situation such as this. How would you want them to be treated? You will find that God encourages us to do unto others as they would have them do unto us. Please don’t take my word for it. Find out yourself. Read and pray.
When innocence ought to be presumed in the absence of established guilt, some people don’t just throw stones; they throw rocks. That is shameful. Yes, shameful. And it falls way short of the standard to which God calls us all. Please don’t take my word for it. Again, find out for yourself. Read and pray.
In this time of waiting and discernment there is an opportunity to show something of the love that we are called to share. No, that is not insipid Christianity. No, showing love is not a weakness nor does it mean that showing love means we are ‘soft’ or ‘polite’ or that we should turn a blind eye to wrong doing or shrink back from taking decisive corrective action. It is authentic Christianity.
Yes, God can get angry. Yes, God can move decisively and can deliver the harshest justice to those who may least expect it or to those who may think they are above judgement.
A prolific blogger has shared in some detail of several recent examples of those in televangelical ministries and other ministries who have spectacularly fallen. These serve as a warning and a reminder of what can happen as the light of truth shines in the dark places.
Let us not in the process of revelation jump to possible wrong conclusions and become judge, jury and hangman all in one. By the measure by which we judge, we too shall be judged.
If God is in control as I believe He is then in His way and for His purposes His will shall be accomplished. There may be more hurt, there may be more pain. There may be bruised, tattered or restored reputations. But God will have his way whether we like it or not, whatever that means; whatever the eventual outcome.
Through it all there is hope. There can be healing. Lessons will be learned and hopefully new ways forward will be found to ensure the ingredients of this situation cannot again combine to bake a cake. When there’s a cake there is always someone who wants a bigger slice.
God assures us that nothing can separate us from His love. That’s a blessed assurance.
I do agree with you David that Crossroads is a business run by business people. The Holy Spirit showed me that. The reason the Lord does not want both spiritual mindedness and “business” mindedness in His house is because that is double-minded. It is mixing spirituality with carnality. According to scripture there is only one way to “graduate to heaven”, and that is at the COST of our carnality, our fleshly life in this fleshly world. Like most in the church today including me, I think you have only heard one half of the gospel, which is a covenant with two parties, since we are talking about legalities – there is Jesus’ part, and then there is our part. In order to be participators in the covenant we must fulfill our part and put our carnality to death. God is spirit, He is giving birth to spiritual children who are not double-minded.
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and SOLD ALL HE HAD and BOUGHT THAT FIELD.
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and SOLD EVERYTHING HE HAD and BOUGHT IT.” Matt. 13:44-46
Will we believe the Lord, or will we believe our own carnal mind that is at enmity with God?
Our mandate as Christians has never been to change the world, which is passing away, but to save OUT OF THE WORLD the children of God before the world falls to judgment. “For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed.” Acts. 17:31
David:
The Hamilton Spectator:
How do you know Steve Buist made no attempt to contact Mr. Driver?
Fair enough. You said you dug. How?
I have an email from an interested party who was unable to reach Mr. Driver. Court papers were attached to the rental home door.
You said: “the person from the Hamilton Spectator didn’t call Gordon Driver and ask any questions from him before they ran that piece.” You have the floor.
“Have you ever thought that they are under strict orders by whatever counsel they have had to hire to see them through this mess that they can’t speak about the case at all.”
The legal language is apparent in statements released by Crossroads. If I’ve got names straight, a tax lawyer is a board member. It is logical to assume lawyers are working for the charity and individual parties.
CEO Doug McKenzie June 12, 2009:
You have said it is important the accused gets a chance to tell his side. Gordon Driver freely commented here, and the invitation remains open.
Back to topic.
An investment mistake has been acknowledged.
Crossroads Christian Communications states ministry funds have been audited.
Questions remain about salaries during withdrawal, and where funds went.
Reynold stated he used his funds for ‘charities and others in need.’ He stated he used funds for Heaven’s Rehearsal.
Involving others in Axcess Automation/Funds has been acknowledged by Reynold Mainse.
Acknowledgement has been made that David Rutledge, and Ron and Reynold Mainse were not licenced.
David Rutledge has not spoken.
Ron Mainse has not spoken.
How Crossroads Christian Communications choses to address their issues when they think they are legally free to do so is up to them.
Investors, donors, stakeholders, viewers and the public will make their decisions about Crossroads transparency, honesty and accessibility.
Crossroads Chrstian Communications also have other agencies to answer to and we’ll see what occurs.
Further to my note in (25) above I felt I should make clear that when it comes to those who are suffering in this whole situation there must surely be pain and suffering on all sides:
The individuals and families who have lost money are in pain and are suffering.
Gordon Driver and his family are in pain and are suffering.
The Mainse family and extended family branches are in pain and are suffering.
The Rutledge family are in pain and are suffering.
The Crossroads Board and the 100 Huntley Street constituency et al are in pain and are suffering.
Clearly the situation is a mess and the legal process in the USA and Canada has initiated to clear up whatever needs to be cleared up. It’s not a quick fix.
Through it all there has to be a presumption of innocence until proven otherwise. That must be a given.
I say this all to ask that we express more of the love and the grace that God calls everyone to as this process works through.
Please remember all concerned on all sides of this situation in your prayers today. It is a time not to lean on our own understanding but to know that God has it all in the palm of His hand. His ways are higher than ours.
1 Corinthians 13:1
”If I speak in the tongue of men and angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or clanging cymbal.”
This is also love:
“…But if we judged ourselves we would not come under judgment. When we are judged by the Lord we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned with the world.” 1 Cor. 11:31-32
It’s been a while now since I stopped blaming the devil and accusing God of wrongdoing because of the suffering in my life – now I know better, this is His love. My flesh is absolutely incorrigible, there is no way to redeem my flesh nature – it must be crucified to death. Now I am on God’s side in my suffering, I agree with Him in His indictment against my own nature, that I deserve the suffering, that I need it. And yet still it is less than I deserve, he does not treat me as my sins deserve and He preserves me through it all, according to His gracious promises, none of which I deserve. I ask Him to show me my sin which I cannot see without His help, so that I can repent, also with His help.
As we know from His word, those who take on the role of teaching and preaching the gospel are subject to even harder discipline because if they do wrong, they pollute the gospel, defile God’s house, and lead others to do the same. From what I have seen from the unfortunate many examples in recent years, God’s discipline has to be just as public as the ministry one has – for the sake of His Name, and for the sake of the flock.
I don’t doubt the people in question here are surrounded by friends and family who are offering them consolation and comfort, but who is there around them who understands the situation and loves them enough to try and tell them the truth about what God is trying to accomplish through this mess. Unless they find out what sin it is they need to repent of, and repent of it, their suffering will have been wasted – they are in danger of perishing, and leading others to the same fate. And let’s not forget that those who follow them also need to be warned. The Lord is lowering the boom, dropping the plumbline in His house in these last days – we are near the end and He is greatly to be feared. They are warned and well-advised in scripture to make friends with their Adversary while they are on the way, I pray they will, but so far it does not look promising if all they are repenting for is a “mistake” rather than the carnal sin of greed or leaning on the arm of mammon or receiving and spreading a false gospel of “prosperity”…. My flesh, and yours, is just as carnal, just as greedy, just as willing to eschew suffering and believe the lies that it wants to believe , I also believed this false gospel until the Lord was gracious to deliver me – I don’t condemn anybody without condemning myself. But if by the grace of God I now have some light, I want to shine it – for His sake, for their sake, and for the sake of those who believe in the things they say and do. There is another more important kind of affinity fraud we have to be on our guard against – the kind where we believe someone else’s version of the gospel because of our affinity for that person..this is why Jesus warns us we cannot be His disciples unless we “hate our brothers and sisters”.
I love these people, I feel for them, I “grew up” with them in my living room, watching them on television from the time I came to faith in Jesus over 20 years ago, I don’t enjoy the suffering or hardship of others – but if they could see the truth and repent right now this would be over, and I would be happy and relieved, and just glad to be able to call them my brothers and sisters!
Therese:
“…but if they could see the truth and repent right now this would be over…”
Matthew 7:1-3
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. ”
The full story has not yet been told and yet there is an air of judgement that is simply not Scriptural. Period.
There is a current legal process engaged and these folk must be presumed innocent unless and until found otherwise. This also includes being open to the possibility that they may be found innocent.
The investors (and their families) have not shared their side of the story in full measure.
Gordon Driver has not shared his side of the story in full measure.
Ron & Reynold Mainse have yet to tell their side of the story in full measure.
Stephen Rutledge has yet to tell his side of the story in full measure.
And anyone else involved for that matter.
And so on…
Get the picture?
There is a call for accountability that is getting stronger and that ultimately comes from God.
There will come a time for repentance as may or may not be appropriate on a few fronts.
Then a time for forgiveness.
Then a time for reconciliation and restitution.
Then a time for healing.
Etc…
And then life for these folk and their families hopefully moves forward.
And we should pray that God will be honoured throughout.
And…a time for peace.
Anybody noticing that we are seeing an increasing affinity between protestant evangelicals and catholicism lately? Catholics possess only the milk of the word, only Jesus’ part of the covenant…as does most of the evangelical church now. The church has lost the meat of the gospel, the part where we need to “sell all that we have and buy” the kingdom of heaven for ourselves, “buy” the extra oil (revelation of the word) through the suffering that comes with carrying the disciple’s cross. The kingdom of heaven is is not bought with money – “You who have no money, come and buy”.
“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed.” 1 Peter 4:12-13
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade – kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come SO THAT YOUR FAITH – of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire – MAY BE PROVED GENUINE, and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” 1 Peter 1:3-7
I don’t trust any believer or preacher who names the name of Jesus any more unless I see the mark of the cross in their lives – suffering.
Therese:
The passage in Matthew 7:1-3 is for us all wherever we are in our journey.
For my part it is precisely because of the suffering that I and my family have been through that we have found love and grace for others when the storms of life gather and shake us to our very core.
We have a choice to get better or get bitter.
I pray that I am working towards getting better.
I cannot speak for others.
An interesting thought for you arising from your quote:
“I don’t trust any believer or preacher who names the name of Jesus any more unless I see the mark of the cross in their lives – suffering…”
Might this just mean that Ron and Reynold will go on to become amazing preachers?
Tim asks “Ask yourself how you would wish to be treated if ever you were caught up in a situation such as this. Or if your husband, wife, son or daughter, friend etc were to be caught up in a situation such as this. How would you want them to be treated?” I am not sure we have much control over how we could/would be treated, should something like this befall us. I am sure everyone would want to be treated with gentleness and love.
Should my name have been mentioned, and I was the face of a Christian ministry, I would do everything in my power to communicate to the thousands who donate and view the show, what was going on. I may not have the power to influence how I was treated, but I know I have the power to influence how I treat others, and those committed to CTS and the viewer ship would have been my utmost priority.
I would have “beat the press” so to speak in OVER communicating the facts as I saw them. I would have harnessed the power of social media, explained facts, speculations, given names and numbers. I would have taken an episode, or part of one, on 100 Huntley Street to explain what was happening, to explain my absence and shared the methods and ways that people could stay connected to myself and the information I was giving.
I would have never slipped off into the night, leaving other CTS staff to vaguely explain what was going on.
I am 100% sympathetic to the plight of the Mainse family, CTS and those affected by this whole situation. But what will always boggle my mind was the lack of communication. In the age that we live in, where information travels faster than ever, CTS and the Mainse brothers could have over saturated donors with information so no one was left guessing. There would have been no speculation, everything would have out on the table.
My mother taught me a very simple, yet profound sentence that has guided me throughout these last few years “If you have nothing to hide, you have everything to share”. I couldn’t agree more.
Apologies – I referred to Stephen Rutledge in (30) above. I believe I should have referred to David Rutledge. My apologies if there is a Stephen Rutledge out there close to this matter in any way.
Tim, to me the word of God is precious treasure, not something to mock and despise.
As for the Mainse’s being more worthy preachers after all this, for sure I believe this is the great opportunity and mercy the Lord is offering them, if only they would agree with their Adversary on the way, before they are handed over to the Judge, so that they are able to receive His grace and avoid His judgment. I’m sorry I can’t be more hopeful – but the letter tells me that the author doesn’t know what he needs to repent of, which is not about believing his friend’s lies, but more about serving mammon and believing/presenting a false gospel.
Hi Therese – Comment edited for clarity. No problem with discussion, that’s great, however please stick to to the issue. Thanks – BD
Therese:
The Word of God is indeed precious and I agree it should never be mocked or despised. Was that an abstract comment or was it directed at someone or some comment in particular?
Let us remember that in the end Job’s friend were left with egg on their face. God always and always uphold the righteous and vindicate them. Rock on Bene. Don’t let all the junk so entangle you that you lose your focus. Keep ministering!
Debbie:
It’s not so much the tangle of junk and the complexity of the event and the players, it’s the great weather I’m being drawn outside to that is distracting.:^) The outdoors is winning.
Thank you for the encouragement.
A few years ago Tom and Valerie Battaglia won $100,000 from the Ontario lottery cooperation. 6/49 It was published in local newspapers.
Tom – employee of CTS which is owned by Crossroads Communications
Valerie – the personal secretary of David Mainse for 30 years.
This issue of chasing money has been inside Crossroads for years. Just a matter of time before the house of cards crumbled.
Crossroads Television producer wins $100,000 prize
Sep 23, 2005
A 60-year-old producer with the Burlington-based Crossroads Television System won $100,000 in a recent lottery draw, matching the last six of seven numbers in the Sept. 13 Encore game.
“I was floored. I went to the store to have it checked. I had absolutely no idea,” Tom Battaglia told officials with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation. He and his wife, Valerie, have four children. He said he plans to buy another cellphone, eyeglasses, renovate a bathroom and maybe retire a little earlier.
The winning ticket was bought at Brant Smoke on Brant Street.
http://www.haltonsearch.com/hr/bp/story/3054578p-3542506c.html
Gambling and playing the lottery??
This had no effect on Tom or Valerie’s employment with the Mainse’s. This type of behavior was condoned and brought the sons and relatives to chase the almighty dollar themselves. Ron and Reynold just got caught that’s all!!
CTS senior producer and David Mainse 30 year secretary???
Come on now!? The chasing of money has been going on for a while with the Mainses and their workers.
I don’t know if CTS has a contract it signs with it’s employees.
Having spent the last several years volunteering my time to anti-gambling advocates on financial, addiction, community, advertising deception etc., it’s no secret that over 1/2 the people who describe themselves as born again or evangelical do not see gambling as an issue.
Most Christians are clueless as to the social effects of gambling.
Warning after warning come out by groups such as the Canadian Medical Association, The Canadian Institute for Mental Health, The Better Business Bureau etc.
The United Church of Canada has tried more than most Cdn denominations to get the message out, but churches across denominations locally are not teaching the dangers, the moral obligation, the cost to business, family friends.
To quote from the article above:
it’s no secret that over 1/2 the people who describe themselves as born again or evangelical do not see gambling as an issue.
———
That puzzles me. How can anyone of an evangelical or born-again nature not see the problems of gambling? Not only gambling as
an addiction but as a lapse of responsibility.
But, on the other hand, alcohol and other things are works of the
devil! Gambling–hmmmmm, perhaps not a problem.
Other than the prosperity doctrine, I fail to see how anyone cannot
recognise the difficulties inherent in gambling.
If spending all your week’s wages on the outcome of the 5th race
at Aqueduct isn’t a problem, then what is it?
I wonder what these people think about playing card or board
games. I wonder what these people think about new age music
or jazz. What about dancing?
Are these people clear on anything? I see them as bieng
filled with the gospel talking points relentlessly droned or
dinned into them but not understanding thoroughly the
matter at hand.
———
I remember about 25 years ago, I worked with a person as
an elections enumerator. I had lunch in his home and noticed
that there wasn’t a book or magazine anywhere. There wasn’t
a stereo or recordings either. There was a simple kitchen radio
that received only the AM band and a colour TV in the basement.
He was an evangelical and I wondered how he could live as he
did and have a full life.
I saw an empty house.
Yes, gambling is destructive because it is sin. It’s destructive even for those who “win” and are not addicted. At the last church I attended (posted about it on another thread) one of the deacons and an “intercessor”, who frequently “ministered” and laid hands on people in prayer, had won a very large amount of money in the lottery, for which the above couple’s win would have only been the tithe. This person was also often a nuisance, going around laying hands on people to impart the holy(?) spirit when they didn’t want it – the pastor felt it too but didn’t restrain this individual…why not? Could it have to do with a sense of obligation concerning money? Interestingly, a few years later, this person is in financial difficulty. Very, very messy things going on in the house of God – I can hardly believe how naive I was only a little while ago, but I hope no longer by the grace of God!
“Like a partridge that hatches eggs it did not lay is the man who gains riches by unjust means. When his life is half gone they will desert him, and in the end he will prove to be a fool.” Jer. 17:11
“The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.” Proverbs 10:22
Therese… do you see your being incredibly judgmental as a sin?
No need to answer.
Ummm… gambling is not a sin, folks.
It can be one, though.
My wife and I routinely go to Las Vegas because our daughter loves it there… so many lights and big buildings.
During the week that we are there, I spend $100 on the roulette table…and when that is gone, that is it.
I walk away.
It isn’t a sin, nor would it be if this woman that won this lottery allocated $100/year to spend on lottery tickets. All things in moderation.
It doesn’t stand to reason that just because you do it once you are eventually going to become an ingrained gambler. Don’t be so naive and silly.
Eating food isn’t a sin. But it can be.
Drinking booze isn’t a sin, or else Jesus would be guilty. But it can be if done to excess.
Sex can lead you down all sorts of destructive paths. But it doesn’t have to if within the bonds of a martial relationship.
Judging another’s actions is told to us by Jesus to be a healthy endeavor as long as when we go to our brother who has a log in the eye and remember we too are human and susceptible to having our own log-in-eye syndrome. But being judgmental such as some of you are on here can be incredibly sinful. You are making judgment calls on people you do not know, on situations you have no knowledge of and about things that you really have no understanding about.
One last one…
Being ignorant isn’t necessarily a sin, but it can be when you continue to choose to be stupid like a dog returns to its vomit.
But hey… don’t let anyone stop you if you think stupid is where God wants you to be.
You’re right David, there is no need for me to answer your judgment of me. But I will anyhow – I am very appalled and sickened by so much widespread wickedness and carnality in the church that the Lord is opening my eyes to lately – I take it you are not though.
I give thanks and praise and testimony to Almighty God my Father and faithful Shepherd who has seen fit to rescue this dumb little sheep, who was suckered in and fleeced for so long but am no longer! by greedy, ambitious, mis-guided, charlatan, blind, pulpit kings who sit on thrones and live in palaces, or want to, and who preach false gospels leading millions to hell.
“Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel; prophesy and say to them: ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Woe to the shepherds of Israel who only take care of themselves! Should not shepherds take care of the flock? You eat the curds, clothe yourselves with the wool and slaughter the choice animals, but you do not care for the flock. You have not strengthened the weak or healed the sick or bound up the injured. You have not brought back the strays or searched for the lost. You have ruled them harshly and brutally. So they were scattered because there was no shepherd….” Ezekiel 34:2-5
Dear Lord Jesus, forgive me for not being strong enough in my condemnation of such….I can’t even think of a word strong enough….abominations in your holy sanctuary!!!
James 3:13-18
James 4:11-12
At the risk of being savaged and mauled by a minority of well intended but rather obtuse sheep with sharp teeth I felt I should include the following text as a reminder of what God has to say about love…
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails…”
1 Corinthians 13:4-8
That does not mean that the due processes of civil, criminal, ecclesial and God’s law can be swept under the carpet. The text defines itself on how we should treat one another even when the tough questions need to be asked.
Therese:
I don’t think ‘abominations in your holy sanctuary’ has anything to do with a registered charity, media organization and employees.:^)