One Reason I Don't Listen to Dr. Robert Jeffress, Pastor of the First Baptist Church in Dallas, TX

Herein lies the danger I am forever warning against: That danger is listening and watching preachers and services from churches other than your own.

For proof of the validity of this concern, just consider than this preacher has gone off the tracks and there  is no way to tell where or when else he has done so.

God put us in a local church for valid reasons, one of those reasons is so that we will not be exposed to things such as this that was posted, and especially from a preacher that is SBC. Many times those that follow these preachers from outside of their own church do not even realize that they are following a man instead of being Spirit led. This makes them susceptible to following false doctrine and error without many times even knowing it.

In posting about this issue, I especially noticed that Bro. Tony said this: "I'm seeing quite a bit of this in nearly every sect of the Baptist church". This would indicate to me that Bro. Tony is visiting many other churches, other than his own. But even more disturbing is his indication that he may think that Baptist means universal church. This is what is indicated when someone says, "the Baptist church", in the singular voice, but meaning all churches instead of local churches. When I hear this phrase I always want to ask, "which Baptist church?" 

Please understand that I am not picking on Bro. Tony here, I am specifically warning against following preachers other than our own and indicating the error of universal church as opposed to local church.

Just some thoughts as I read the forum early this morning and saw this post. If I offend anyone including Bro. Tony, please understand that is not my intention, my intention is simply to warn against error and preachers that have the capacity to lead others in their error.

4 hours ago, Jim_Alaska said:

Herein lies the danger I am forever warning against: That danger is listening and watching preachers and services from churches other than your own.

For proof of the validity of this concern, just consider than this preacher has gone off the tracks and there  is no way to tell where or when else he has done so.

God put us in a local church for valid reasons, one of those reasons is so that we will not be exposed to things such as this that was posted, and especially from a preacher that is SBC. Many times those that follow these preachers from outside of their own church do not even realize that they are following a man instead of being Spirit led. This makes them susceptible to following false doctrine and error without many times even knowing it.

In posting about this issue, I especially noticed that Bro. Tony said this: "I'm seeing quite a bit of this in nearly every sect of the Baptist church". This would indicate to me that Bro. Tony is visiting many other churches, other than his own. But even more disturbing is his indication that he may think that Baptist means universal church. This is what is indicated when someone says, "the Baptist church", in the singular voice, but meaning all churches instead of local churches. When I hear this phrase I always want to ask, "which Baptist church?" 

Please understand that I am not picking on Bro. Tony here, I am specifically warning against following preachers other than our own and indicating the error of universal church as opposed to local church.

Just some thoughts as I read the forum early this morning and saw this post. If I offend anyone including Bro. Tony, please understand that is not my intention, my intention is simply to warn against error and preachers that have the capacity to lead others in their error.

I take no offense at what you stated, Brother. For the record, I've been with the North Fork Baptist Church of Shelbyville, Tennessee for over five years. Before that my wife and I were members of a church in our area that split. I was a laypreacher for the church before it split, and then after serving AFTER the split, because of the anymosity towards the split, my wife and I went WiTH the split. As far as "visiting many different Baptist Churches" incorrect. We've belonged to several because of splits in churches, my being involved with other churches ministries, and helping to plant churches. So, no offense taken. You're always welcomed to have the opinion you have about listening to ones own pastor..and I have to say that I agree with that...they ARE the undershepherd for the people whom they have as church members and should take that very seriously. I should clarify that because this IS A BAPTIST board, that's why I specifically mention that I've seen it in many BAPTIST churches...not just over a period of a few years, but for over 50 years. I know it's present in every denomination. 

But, again, I want you to be assured that I take no offense here...just wanted to clarify some things. One last thing, because of health issues, I'm not always able to be in church physically. My own church doesn't put their services online any longer, so I am pretty much resigned to either watching other Baptist preachers, or preachers whom I know are doctrinally sound, and believe me, they are getting to be far a few between. Still, I do have spiritual discernment and know how to compare to Scripture what is being said. That's one reason I brought Jeffress' comments to the news cycle!  I used to listen to him years ago, but, during the Trump administration, he became far too political in nature for my tastes. My wife still listens to him, but I often hear her sayiing "Um...that's not right, Robert!" She starts pointing out in the Bible what's wrong with what he's said! I've taught her pretty well over the years.

Blessings, my friend and Brother! 

BT 

I don’t know Dr. Roberts or ever listen to him preach, but I personally stay away from all mega churches. Many of those mega churches preachers are too involved in politics and they earn way too much money. How much is too much? let’s say that person can pay their house off, with what they earn in one year. I’m talking about a big house. What amazes me is that Christians say they deserve it, the blind following the blind. Sorry for changing the subject a bit.

Thank you BT; well said.

I have never heard Dr. Robert's preach, but I do agree with you that politics is becoming an issue with many pastors. I'm not talking about Biblical issues like abortion and homosexuality, but rather political issues like second amendment, election fraud, CRT and others. 

I may agree with what some of these pastors say, but there is no need for the pastor to tell people how to vote. Once the Word of God gets in ones life, they will know how to vote.

On 9/24/2021 at 8:59 AM, PastorMatt said:

I have never heard Dr. Robert's preach, but I do agree with you that politics is becoming an issue with many pastors. I'm not talking about Biblical issues like abortion and homosexuality, but rather political issues like second amendment, election fraud, CRT and others. 

I may agree with what some of these pastors say, but there is no need for the pastor to tell people how to vote. Once the Word of God gets in ones life, they will know how to vote.

I'm confused.  God ordained the Family, the Church, and the Government and gave us a responsiblity to all three - why wouldn't a pastor being involved in politics simply be part of preaching the whole counsel of God? 

50 minutes ago, baptist senior said:

I'm confused.  God ordained the Family, the Church, and the Government and gave us a responsiblity to all three - why wouldn't a pastor being involved in politics simply be part of preaching the whole counsel of God? 

Because, under 501c3 guidelines, he is violating Federal law for one. We never see Jesus preaching politics, and this isn't what he commanded his followers to focus on when giving the Good News. Politics has it's place, but, it's not in a Sunday morning worship service. 

1 minute ago, BrotherTony said:

Because, under 501c3 guidelines, he is violating Federal law for one. We never see Jesus preaching politics, and this isn't what he commanded his followers to focus on when giving the Good News. Politics has it's place, but, it's not in a Sunday morning worship service. 

we ought to obey God rather than man, but didn't Trump get rid of those guidelines anyway?  I think Jesus did talk politics whenever He spoke of the government, but I agree that it shouldn't be a huge focus in church services but it should be taught somewhat, even if it only touches on party platforms.  Baptist churches have been doing it for years, that is why they created the 501.33guidelines.  Churches taking government kickbacks on taxes created alot of issues 

29 minutes ago, baptist senior said:

we ought to obey God rather than man,

Yes, we should obey God more than man....but Christ gave the guidelines....argue with him.

but didn't Trump get rid of those guidelines anyway?

Not that I'm aware of....He had considered it, but I don't see any evidence of this happening.

  I think Jesus did talk politics whenever He spoke of the government, but I agree that it shouldn't be a huge focus in church services

Christ made mention of Herod Antipas when he said "Go tell that fox," but he wasn't in a synagogue...nor was he in the temple.

but it should be taught somewhat, even if it only touches on party platforms.

If it's going to be taught, it should be in either small groups, or in services outside of regularly scheduled church services. Our focus should be clear, and only dedicated to what Christ told us to preach and teach.

  Baptist churches have been doing it for years, that is why they created the 501.33guidelines.  Churches taking government kickbacks on taxes created alot of issues

 

Regardless, it should never have been in the churches in the first place, IMHO. I don't find anywhere in Scripture where it belongs. Most , if not all of this political teaching should be in the home by the parents, not the pastor. 

1 hour ago, BrotherTony said:

 

I'm sorry if you think I was arguing with you, I'm merely questioning so I can learn.  I understand what you are saying about politics in church, I don't like it much either.  I don't mind the occasional 'don't vote for those who support abortion etc statements though.  

1 hour ago, baptist senior said:

I'm sorry if you think I was arguing with you, I'm merely questioning so I can learn.  I understand what you are saying about politics in church, I don't like it much either.  I don't mind the occasional 'don't vote for those who support abortion etc statements though.  

I'm sorry...I didn't take it that way. Sometimes I just feel the need to split comments so that I can more clearly answer. Sometimes I am a little to direct, and it seems to others like I'm upset or are in an  argumentative state. I seldom if ever am. I've just always been a person who is to the point. Guess I had to be with so many kids in my family. If one wasn't direct they usually didn't get a chance to voice anything.  So, we're good. 

1 hour ago, Guest Christian said:

This is off topic from previous comments.  
I have watched maybe a couple of dozen or so of Dr.Jeffress’ teaching. And his CD’s on the book of Revelation, which I learned a lot!   I have to say that he is easier to listen to, than watch. I find that I have become somewhat distracted, because, while he “quotes scripture”, he’s not reading from the Bible that he has in his hands. It has become obvious that he has some kind of “insert” between the pages that don’t even match the color of the other two inserts (within a Bible). And some other “worn” material as well?  My question is, why doesn’t he just use the pulpit where he CAN read from scripture? From the Bible.  And spread out his sermon notes?   He was “reading” from (supposedly) Genius, but clearly had his “Bible” open somewhere near the New Testament?  Or, is he actually holding a Bible?  These things may sound “picky.”  But if I’m distracted by Dr. Jeffress’  “techniques” then, I realize that I’m not getting the intended message presented.  And my Soul is not being fed by the Spirit. 
I attended Baptist churches all of my life. From large to small.  However, I began to realize that, for the most part, they were becoming, “The Gospel According To Pastor (fill in the blanks)”.   I find that Non-Denominational churches fill my spiritual needs on a deeper level, because there are not as many political issues associated within the church. And I attended many, in my quest to find one that wasn’t a “Mega Church.”  And through prayer, that God and the Holy Spirit  would lead me to the right one. I found one that truly feeds my Soul. 
I may continue to listen to Dr. Jeffress’ CDs.  However, I will no longer be watching all of his teachings on TV. 

Thank You!  And God Bless!

Hopefully, Mr./Mrs. Guest,  you are feeding yourself daily and not counting on someone else to be spoon feeding you. It's not just the job of the pastor to oversee your feeding, but most of the responsibility lies on your own shoulders. That being said, watching a preaching on TV, or listening to him on CD/tape or other medium isn't going to do the trick either. You may continue to learn and grow, but you're missing out on the help other members of the body of Christ will bring. 

There aren't that many things from the political arena to pray about beyond abortion, homosexuality, and godlessness of our nation.

Many things now labeled "political" are not political but rather moral -- killing babies, sexual perversion, adultery, fornication, gender were all Bible (and sin) issues long before a politician took up the "cause"!

I watch pathway to victory almost every morning. I would have never watched anyone who would promote those terrible vaccines. I'm very happy I am a pureblood and never bent to to anyone's opinion concerning my health. There are many sudden deaths these days and most assuredly they are vax related. I only recently began watching so I was unaware of his stance on vaccines. 

11 hours ago, Darla said:

I watch pathway to victory almost every morning. I would have never watched anyone who would promote those terrible vaccines. I'm very happy I am a pureblood and never bent to to anyone's opinion concerning my health. There are many sudden deaths these days and most assuredly they are vax related. I only recently began watching so I was unaware of his stance on vaccines. 

Thank you for commenting Darla. 

The pastor probably invested in Pfizer or Moderns. When someone flip-flops it's almost always because money was involved or someone has something on him.

Not sure I understand why the vaccine comment by Pastor Jeffress is wrong in your opinion.  I notice you don't site a scripture that is against it.  One question:  What is wrong with a preacher being involved in political issues?  To preach actually means "to herald'.  Truth.

Preachers have authority to remind people of the principles of God's Word. If a politician/political leaning is blatantly defying God's ways, then there is a place for pastors to remind people of truth and to remind them to pay attention to what their politicians support. They can share what they've learned re politics, what their personal choice is and why, but shouldn't outright tell people who to vote for, IMO. 

Health (and what goes/doesn't go) into our bodies is the responsible of the individual, and occasionally the family (for children).  Except where sin is involved, it is not the place or responsibility of the church to have an opinion therein. 

4 hours ago, Sabrina said:

Not sure I understand why the vaccine comment by Pastor Jeffress is wrong in your opinion.  I notice you don't site a scripture that is against it.  One question:  What is wrong with a preacher being involved in political issues?  To preach actually means "to herald'.  Truth.

Pastors are to instruct and guide those under his care in spiritual matters. He can give his opinion regarding physical things, but, when he goes as far as to twist scripture to fit his own ideology, and tries to force his opinion down his congregants throats, he's overstepped his authority. I have little respect or regard for such preachers.

The Bible does not explicitly state whether vaccines are a sin or not. Therefore, each individual must decide what is best for their family. A pastor should not try to play the role of the Holy Spirit and tell their congregation whether or not vaccines are a sin. Instead, they should encourage their congregation to pray and seek guidance from God on this matter.

@Sabrina Welcome to OB. 

On 1/1/2022 at 12:45 PM, BrotherTony said:

Because, under 501c3 guidelines, he is violating Federal law for one. We never see Jesus preaching politics, and this isn't what he commanded his followers to focus on when giving the Good News. Politics has its place, but, it's not in a Sunday morning worship service. 

i realize that this is an old tread, but feel that I should throw my feelings out there. I am a member of First Baptist Dallas and I attend services regularly. If I can not attend in person, I watch it on the TV. I have never heard Dr. Jeffress ask for a member to vote in any particular way. I have heard him say that everyone should get out and vote. It is no secret that he supports Trump but I have never heard him ask his congregation to vote for him.  I was in attendance when Mike Pence was a guest and I saw nothing political about the interview. 

1 hour ago, Old Man said:

i realize that this is an old tread, but feel that I should throw my feelings out there. I am a member of First Baptist Dallas and I attend services regularly. If I can not attend in person, I watch it on the TV. I have never heard Dr. Jeffress ask for a member to vote in any particular way. I have heard him say that everyone should get out and vote. It is no secret that he supports Trump but I have never heard him ask his congregation to vote for him.  I was in attendance when Mike Pence was a guest and I saw nothing political about the interview. 

It seemed to me and many others, including many respectable SBC and IFB pastors, believed that Jeffress was using this as a booster for Trump, following the same practice that the African American churches do. As far as your attending First Baptist of your Dallas, that's good. I have several friends who go there, and I believe one is on staff in one of the extensions of the church. It's not that I don't like Jeffress. I like him and I used to listen to him quite often in years gone by. But that not so subtle attempt at mixing politics with a worship service was beyond acceptable IMHO.