A video is going around on social networks showing a US pastor preaching about Nelson Mandela’s death on a TV show called The Pulpit of Power.
While that could have happened in several churches across the world, the one thing that will catch your eye is how disrespectful this pastor is to the memory of Madiba. He calls the former president a “fool” for not accepting God in his life.
Whether Madiba was a Christian is of no consequence, it is not even up for discussion because religious affiliations are a matter of personal preference. In fact, the Good Book says preachers ought to be meek and persuasive in their approach and not force people into Christianity.
It is was the foundation the religion was built upon, not mockery and self-awareness.
Which makes the idea of the Preachers of LA very intriguing. Now showing on Vuzu, the reality TV show looks at some US pastors who live flashy lives. Based on the mere fact that Christianity is about humility, this show goes against the grain when it shows these clergy men’s flamboyant lifestyles.
Reality TV’s main ingredient boils down to one thing: vanity. And if you know a thing or two about Christian standards, then the last thing Jesus was, was vain. So here we have flashily dressed men in Hollywood, possibly trying to outdo Real Husbands of Hollywood, showing off their “blessed” lifestyles.
Let’s make something clear, churches in general make money from donations from their congregations. So you attend church on Sunday and are guilt-tripped into giving away your hard-earned cash as thanks for God’s blessings. Half the time there is nothing wrong with that because to true believers the idea of tithes actually works as it has been around for centuries.
However, using those alms outside God’s house is simply disrespectful.
The culprits on this show include Bishop Clarence McClendon, Pastor Deitrick Haddon, Pastor Jay Haizlip, Bishop Noel Jones, Bishop Ron Gibson and Pastor Wayne Chaney.
Of course, the rest of the world is doing reality TV, but that does not mean respectful church folk should follow suit. There are just some subjects that should not stoop that low. It’s as bad as having Mother Teresa brag about the people she helped, or Mahatma Gandhi demanding payment for his services to humankind.
Christianity is supposed to be nothing but a calling and a calling is about passion, not profit. Yet, with reality TV we all know ratings equal pay days and yes, there are several verses about money and its associated evils.
Renowned clergyman, author, filmmaker and preacher, Bishop TD Jakes, has openly rebuked the show, saying it is about misusing church funds for personal gain. He attributes his success to his motivational book sales and the movies he’s made.
In response, one of the LA pastors, Gibson, was quoted saying: “P Diddy, Jay-Z, they’re not the ones who should be driving Ferraris and living in large houses.”
You be the judge.
• Preachers of LA airs every Monday at 8.30pm on Vuzu (DStv channel 116).