The Spiritual Implications of “Faith” and Football in the Public Square
READING TIME: 29 MINUTES
The following are the notes to the discussion found at this link (https://www.facebook.com/tammy.cheetham.77/videos/353292175170497/) for anyone who would like to study the subject more in depth.
We’re sure most everyone by now has heard about the Philadephia Eagles winning the Super Bowl and that several team members and their coach publicly gave glory to God when interviewed after the game. Several articles and interviews have highlighted the team’s emphasis on their faith and many people think this is a wonderful thing. Many people don’t think about the story behind the story and they take everything at face value. Well, we have to say that is a very dangerous thing to do.
I wonder if many, perhaps, are underestimating the manipulation and deception involved in the devil’s schemes. Is it possible that he would use something that, in and of itself, isn’t wrong to lead people off the narrow path and onto the broad path of ecumenism? I mean, a good number of men played football in high school and just generally have an affinity for the sport. And, the game of football itself isn’t evil. But, we are here to say the problem is with all the things the devil has attached to it, especially in the professional football league.
Dominionism, another Jesus, and ecumenism are all tied up together in what we are going to discuss today, just as they were in our last discussion concerning the National Prayer Breakfast. You know, if it’s happening in the public square and being reported on by CBN there’s a very good chance these will be the topics involved.
We are going to point out some things that many may have never thought of before, and/or may not have realized are happening. I know I have been quite surprised to learn some of these things myself. We all know the devil is hard at work trying to deceive Christians; he is hard at work laying the foundation for the One World Religion, but I am not sure any of us realize how many aspects of life he has already infiltrated in this way.
We realize not everyone will agree with what we have to say in this discussion especially when we discuss separation from the world, but you know, we can easily make idols of things without even realizing it.
Even if there were not all these problems with the modern football situation that we will discuss today there could still be a problem concerning how much time people give over to things of this life. You know, it is possible to have attachments to things that aren't sinful, but these things are getting in the way of our relationship with Jesus.
I want to begin by mentioning Dominionism, specifically the 7 Mtn. mandate aspect, with the idea of football players declaring their allegiance to Christ. I am not going to say I know exactly what is in the hearts of the coach or any of the players who have made statements along these lines, but we can look at their actions and examine what Jesus they present, and we will speak more to that in a few moments. First, I want to mention a Facebook post by Shawn Bolz who is a big name in the NAR. The listeners may remember that he supposedly spoke words of knowledge off his Iphone at the Azusa Now event in April of 2016. Well, this is his “prophetic perspective” concerning the Eagles’ win:
“Not to over spiritualize it but I think the Eagles winning over the Patriots in the Super Bowl is prophetic. Biblically, Eagles represent spiritual authority, prophetic significance, and big God-like vision. There are the spiritual colonels of God’s Air Force being appointed. They are the king of the airways, the sky and dominate the territories. Eagles often represent those called to the media and entertainment mountain and God is releasing some who will dominate some of the entertainment and media space claiming territory for His purpose. It is America’s time right now. God is reorganizing our nation and He is up to more than the enemy is. God has more good planned for us then the enemy has bad plans for.” (https://www.facebook.com/thecall/posts/10156255239613578)
(So, we see the mention of the “entertainment mountain” and we recognize this is where football players who are using their platform to share the “gospel” would fit. Before we continue we want to make sure and say we are not saying everyone on a job somewhere who shares the gospel is a dominionist. But, it is always good to examine the gospel being presented by those in the public eye because it is often a social gospel; it is often man-centered, and sad to say, not the true gospel of salvation.
As we continue through this discussion we will note that we must question the authenticity of the gospel that is being shared. And, then his words about America? Wow. It is America’s time right now? He has more good planned for us than the enemy has bad? Has this man not read the book of Revelation? Has he not read 2 Tim. 3 speaking of perilous times and evil men waxing worse and worse?)
And, then, Lance Wallnau, who is one of the most visible (change) promoters of the 7MM posted his prediction on Facebook of an Eagles’ win about two hours before the game started.
“Here’s why I predicted the Eagles,” he said.
1. When I heard about the Eagles quarterback going to seminary to train to be a Pastor and that he was unashamed to say how the Lord led him to this team I said “Hold Everything... this has got that feeling all over it that I get when I’m sensing the Lord on something.”
2. There is a move of some sort on the team where a number of guys are getting saved and baptized. It’s something on the team right now.
3. The words “Pastor” and “Eagle” came together and I saw that the Lord is releasing a “seer” anointing on Pastors to start to prepare the flock for what’s coming in America. The shaking and the Awakening. (Well, when someone is a purveyor of the false teaching of the 7MM, we know that what he is sensing is not of the Lord. And, then Wallnau says, guys are getting saved and baptized. Well, we must research and find out what gospel was preached before we assume these were true salvations and baptisms. And, then, an awakening is coming to America? You know, over the past two years we have heard so many predictions of a great revival or great awakening, but they have all been made by false teachers).
You know, people assume when they hear someone say the name of Jesus, say the words church or Christian, that they are using these terms as they are defined in the Bible. If anyone wants to challenge the authenticity of Christianity in any given situation they are vilified, called judgmental, mean, and so forth. Here is one example:
Tim Tebow shared a picture on his Facebook page of one of the Eagles’ players getting baptized last October. The caption read: “Big things are happening in the Eagles’ locker room” (https://www.facebook.com/771352126367172/videos/733333916860587/?hc_ref=ARRT7vd3py_KeDTK_zKNquGyU1YkqkS-t8PVekZmCVfmKDFAXYSY65ZtyXzslC9A-fw).
One lady posted the following comment: “Real question here is ...is he saved? Baptism will not get you into heaven. Anyone can be dunked in water but if you don't have Christ in your heart then all you are doing is getting wet!” (Well, there were close to 400 replies to her comment and almost all were critical of her comment, calling her judgmental, and so forth. But, she is asking a valid question. Additionally, we should definitely have concerns about events that Tim Tebow promotes because he spoke at the Together 2016 event which was completely ecumenical, and his mother spoke at the March for Life event this past January 19. One of our recent discussions was about this event and we presented information concerning its Catholic foundation. I will include the link for the discussion in case anyone would like more information about this event and its history) (https://www.facebook.com/tammy.cheetham.77/videos/341624989670549/).
Then, in an article entitled “‘All the Glory Belongs to God': The Faith of the Super Bowl-Winning Philadelphia Eagles” we read:
Do faith and football go together? For players on the Philadelphia Eagles, the answer is a resounding "yes."
Before the game, Carson Wentz tweeted this:
"My bro is gonna shine bright tonight! (He was speaking of Nick Foles who filled in as quarterback since Wentz was injured). So excited to see him & this team go out and compete tonight. Been through it all this year as a team, & yet, here we are! WE ALL WE GOT. WE ALL WE NEED. God's writing an unbelievable story and He's getting all the glory! #AO1 #flyeaglesfly" (So, he says we all we got, we all we need and in the next statement says God’s writing an unbelievable story. That’s a bit contradictory. But, again, as we often see with those whose “faith” is in the public eye, with this whole concept of the 7MM, we hear God mentioned, but we never hear about Jesus and what He came to do for us).
"I think the biggest thing that we're always challenging each other with is just to not lose sight of the bigger picture," Wentz said. "I think wins, losses, highs, lows, everything that comes with this game, it's so easy to take your mind and your eyes off of the ultimate prize, and that's living for the Lord." (Now, not to be picky, and yes, we want to live for the Lord, but that isn’t the ultimate prize. Spending eternity with Jesus is).
"And so I think it's really kind of something to where we're all just kind of binding together to kind of keep each other sharpened and keep pushing forward," he continued. That unity helped propel them to the NFC Championship game and now a 41-33 win over the Patriots in the Super Bowl (http://www.breakingchristiannews.com/articles/display_art.html?ID=23605). (Now, I cannot help but think of the message being portrayed when I hear certain buzzwords like unity. Since the ecumenical movement is all around us, I just cannot believe it is a coincidence that we would hear this word, especially since there are Catholics on this team and one of its chaplains is Catholic as we will discuss in a few moments).
Next, I want to share about a video on Facebook on the Conservative Daily page. As of Feb. 20 it had 23 million views. The first shot is of the Eagles’ team members kneeling in prayer on the sidelines before a game; there are a few players from another team with them. The caption reads, “Super Bowl champion Eagles use their fame to praise God.” Then, we see and hear Coach Doug Peterson saying the following as he’s being interviewed after the game: “I can only give the praise to my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ for giving me this opportunity.” And, then, Zach Erzt says: “I mean glory to God, first and foremost. We wouldn’t be here without Him.” And, then, Nick Foles: “Unbelievable. All glory to God.” The Philadelphia Eagles are the new Super Bowl champions. Their story has been an underdog tale since the beginning of the season…and they are crediting their faith as being a key element to their success. The Eagles are one of the most religious teams in the NFL. Though separate journeys led them to the NFL and the Philadelphia Eagles, they sought an outlet to come together and created a way to share their faith.
The interviewer asks Zach Ertz, “How important is it for you to use your platform to glorify God? He replies, “I mean, it’s huge. Our number one goal on this earth is to make disciples. That’s the only job that we are, pretty much, that we want to do. So faith and football this Sunday is huge. This is a platform that we have to draw people to the word, to Jesus. It’s something that we don’t take for granted by any means. It’s obviously a responsibility, but we love that.” (https://www.facebook.com/TheDeclarationIJR/videos/10156534055997971/) (Now, while some people would say this is just awesome; look how they’re giving glory to God. And, wow, the coach actually said, “My Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ!” But, we need to examine exactly what type of Christianity is being presented. As I already noted, we must question the authenticity of the gospel that is being shared. But, just in terms of the entire professional football scene itself, one cannot reconcile saying we have a platform to “draw people to the word, to Jesus” knowing the sins that are connected and are promoted by the ads concerning drinking and then we have inappropriately dressed cheerleaders, gambling, paganism and the occult being glorified during halftime shows and on and on. Ertz says their number one goal is to make disciples, but what kind of disciples are being made in this environment?).
Now, I want to read from an article, published on Nov. 4, 2017, entitled “Eagles’ Chaplain Offers Insight into Team’s Success.” Here are some excerpts:
The Philadelphia Eagles are dominant in the NFL right now- with one of the best starts to the season they’ve had in years. But what’s the secret? “There’s something significantly special about this team,” says Rev. Dr. Herb Lusk, one of the team chaplains, who played running back for the Philadelphia Eagles for three seasons beginning in 1976. “I believe they have a divine connection - I really do.”
Once an Eagle always an Eagle, Rev. Lusk has served as team chaplain for the past 15 years, leading team pre-game prayers and Bible study. Lusk says this team is led by the faithful from Coach Doug Peterson, who he says “never misses Bible study,” to Quarterback Carson Wentz, who has been open about his Christian faith.
But Lusk says this team is different, because the entire team seems driven by a higher purpose. “You’ve got a guy like Chris Long who donated his salary to public education and who raised over a million dollars for water wells in Africa,” says Lusk. Lusk, who is currently senior pastor at Greater Exodus Baptist Church, was honored this week for 35 years of service. The community change agent also leads People for People, Inc., a non-profit that has empowered underserved communities. (http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2017/11/04/eagles-chaplain-offers-insight-into-teams-success/)
This chaplain spoke at the Festival of Families with Pope Francis in Philadelphia on Sept. 29, 2015. https://www.c-span.org/video/?c4552942/pastor-lusk-pope-francis
He read the parable of the prodigal son after greeting the crowd by saying, “My brothers and sisters in the Lord.” (So, this article gives examples of what we mean when we say the social gospel is being preached. And, as we always say, believers will help others in times of need, but to describe these particular acts such as raising money for water wells and leading the organization People for People, in an article meant to convince us the team has a divine connection, shows us another gospel is being presented. And, there is definitely an ecumenical aspect to the entire situation due to the fact that some team members are Catholics, which we will discuss more later on, and noting that the chaplain spoke at the Festival of Families which featured the pope and he addressed everyone in the crowd, Catholics and others alike, as brothers and sisters in the Lord).
An additional example that shows “another Jesus” being presented is that Carrie Underwood’s video performance of “The Champion” opened this year’s Super Bowl broadcast (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/16/carrie-underwood-gay-marriage-country-singer_n_2488967.html). (Carrie Underwood claims to be a Christian even though she supports gay marriage. And, we are not trying to be unkind, but we must say homosexuality is a sin that Jesus bled and died for. And, He didn’t die so we could remain in our sins. I would like to read 1 Cor. 6:9-11 “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such WERE some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” We see a specific reference to homosexuality in verse 9 and verse 11 says and such WERE some of you. This is sinful behavior and anyone who claims their Christianity allows for homosexuality and gay marriage follows “another Jesus”).
In addition, a rapper named Ludacris sings parts of the song with her. He wasn’t on the video, but one could hear his voice. Ludacris has a song called “Move B_tch” – it repeats that phrase many times and includes even more disgusting lyrics which I will not repeat. (Now, a true believer would know not to engage in a business partnership with someone like this rapper. They would know the scriptures about remaining separate which we will discuss later. And, football players who are interested in making true disciples would realize this environment is not conducive to doing so).
Then, part of the chorus to the song, “The Champion,” goes like this. “I am invincible, unbreakable, unstoppable, unshakeable; they knock me down, I get up again, I am the champion, you’re gon’ know my name.” (So, it’s all focused on self. I cannot help but think of Luke 16:15 which says, “And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God”).
Here is part of the second verse to the song: “And this is my chance I’m taking, all them old records, I’m breaking; all you people watching on the TV, you go ahead and put your bets on me.”
Fox Business News reported that this Super Bowl game was projected to draw about $4.76 billion in total bets, according to the American Gaming Association, a lobbying group that represents the casino industry. Of that total, AGA estimates that more than $4.6 billion, or roughly 97%, will be gambled through unlicensed sportsbooks and other illegal venues (http://www.foxbusiness.com/features/2018/01/30/super-bowl-betting-total-to-top-4-7b-with-97-bet-illegally.html) (And, of course, whether legal or illegal, gambling is still wrong. So, again this setting is not conducive to making disciples).
And, here is one more example of this team presenting another Jesus. In an article on the faith.it site we read, “While several of the Philadelphia Eagles players have either found Christ through the love and examples set by their teammates, or simply grown in their own faith journey, Wentz makes it clear that the goal is not to convert people to Christianity, but rather to love God and love His people.
“I’m going to be genuine, I’m going to be authentic with believers, non-believers—it doesn’t matter. I am going to love on them. I’m going to treat them all the same. I’m going to respect them,” he said. “At the same time, as the leader of the football team, I am going to lead everybody the same… I think guys are willing to talk when you don’t have this self-righteous attitude; when you have that mutual respect, it just makes it a healthier environment” (https://faithit.com/philadelphia-eagles-faith-inspiring-millions/).
Sister Tammy, I know you wanted to address this. (Some of the following comments by sister Tammy were not in the original discussion).
“The spiritual implications with this is that just mention being an example to the people, with no intention of converting the soul and sharing the gospel, just they think showing the love and being nice etc. will saved people.
I mean we can see Jesus spent time with sinners (Matthew :10-13) and loved them, but His intention was to save and seek the lost – convert them - this is love!
Many are using this as a proof that it is ok to mix Super Bowl and what it engages in with Jesus and see that joining with sinners is how we are to do this, yes Jesus never was never around sinners where the Gospel wasn’t preached, where sin was not mentioned and conviction wasn’t evident, yet this is not the case here, there is no clear cut separation and we cannot use this as a means to just engage with sin and remain around it with no animosity and as though we are all ok with it. The Bible says that what does is profit a man to gain this whole world and lose their very souls? It’s all this talk of if we just show love, which is not a true portrayal of the Gospel. The first things Jesus dealt with was the state of the soul and told people to repent. The Holy Spirit will always make a cut between truth and error and always point to Jesus. We will be known for standing against sin and giving people Jesus and not the worlds entertainment as a plug to attract the unsaved. The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation and we do not need to go and sit in the thick of an event that we know promotes violence and all these other vices but rather expose what this all is promoting. The best way to reach these souls would be by preaching the Gospel and warning people about the things happening here, not sitting in it all as though you are having fun with it.
Winning a game is not bringing glory to God, what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the eyes of God
Look to the Word of God, these are not dealing with the sin problem of the heart, yes, God is love but what is love? It abhors what is evil and cleaves to that which is good, it points to Jesus and shows us we are guilty sinners in need of redemption and a new heart.
It’s all this unity and everyone just getting along with no true separation and another gospel really is going out to the world.
There was an advert with all different religions coming together promoting this and this is the ecumenical agenda all pushing for a one world religion, everyone gets along in the game, unity etc. with no Jesus! Or another! Also, the portrayal of Christianity going out to an unbelieving world where they see baptism and bible reading lifted up more than Jesus, this gives them the false impression that baptism makes them a Christian if there is no true gospel alongside what true baptism means when one is born again.
I know many situations arise on how far do we go with separation in this world, where Jesus told us we can eat with sinners as long as we are not engaging in what they are doing such as idolatry or types of sin that we know is not going to be pleasing to God and without us showing a displeasure towards and feeling uncomfortable about or around, but always giving them the solution which is Jesus. If someone is actively engaging in sin then we, as much as is possible quite simply remove ourselves from that situation, yet when Jesus said it was ok to eat with an unbeliever, he never said leave the meal because of their sin of idolatry, but if they say that meat has been offered to an idol, He simply said to not eat it, for their sakes and conscience, so each situation of course needs the leading of the Holy Spirit but all times we must show we are not joining in with sin and rebuke it, whilst giving the solution. Doing all to the glory of God.
The problem with the Super Bowl is that this is not happening and a false gospel is going out from these players. We for sure need to understand that a true believer will not purposely want to offend God by what they are seeing as innocently watching or playing a game, but the problems lie with all what is connected to this and the nudge the Spirit gives in our hearts is Who we are to follow.
We of course are not saying to go out of this world where we are surrounded by sin and people sinning, yet to keep the testimony pure and let the unbelieving world see the separation and character of God as we tell of Him and preach His Gospel while letting Him work in and through us day by day. If we are sat at a Super Bowl game cheering along and getting all hyped up when men are violent to one another to gain what? A win! Well this shows not a Christian spirit but shows these things are okay and the kind of Christianity being portrayed here is very concerning indeed.
We are to remain separate from the values and ways of this world and shine in the darkness the light of the truth that Jesus saves sinners and that He gives a whole set of new desires in the heart when we are born again. Why waste our time on money, time and effort on something that really is not profitable and gives out a different Christian witness to others? There really is no mention of the true gospel that Jesus was born of a virgin, died and was buried and rose again after three days for the forgiveness of sin for us who will believe and repent, Jesus forgives and gives eternal life.
The problem is what gospel is being portrayed when we know in the last days many false teachers and prophets are gone out into this world, we are to be sober and vigilant in these perilous times.
You try saying you are a Christian and you are not showing any animosity to the world’s system really is a cause to consider.”
Thank you so much for that, sister Tammy.
Well, I wanted to move on to discuss some specific details concerning the ecumenical bent of this entire situation. In another article concerning the team’s chaplains, we learn that Fr. Tom Barcelona has been Catholic Chaplain of the Philadelphia Eagles since 2004. Fr. Tom doesn’t travel with the Eagles to away games, but has worked out a system with the Catholic Athletes for Christ to ensure that there is a priest present to celebrate Mass with the team in every city they visit. He celebrates Mass for each of the Eagles’ home games. Fr. Tom not only celebrates Mass for the players, but also may help them with marriage prep or to celebrate the baptism of their children.
The Eagles team has a great Christian atmosphere, says Fr. Tom. “With every injury and just in this season the amount of injuries and players being pulled out, and then with Carson [Wentz] and with his injury, they never gave up,” he explains. “They never gave up hope and they kept the faith, too. And I think it’s a faith-filled team there right now, believing in Jesus Christ.” (https://relevantradio.com/2018/02/philadelphia-eagles-faith-filled-team-says-chaplain/) (So, the team has a great Christian atmosphere? Well, I guess if you think ecumenism is supposed to be an aspect of Christianity! But, it’s not, of course. And, as we have been mentioning a lot lately in discussions, and in Facebook posts, Catholics worship “another Jesus.” The Catholic system denies that Jesus completed His work of redemption on the Cross according to Catechism #1405. It says: “There is no surer pledge or dearer sign of this great hope in the new heavens and new earth "in which righteousness dwells," than the Eucharist. Every time this mystery is celebrated, "the work of our redemption is carried on" and we "break the one bread that provides the medicine of immortality, the antidote for death, and the food that makes us live for ever in Jesus Christ.” But, we know the work of our redemption is NOT carried on because John 19:30 says, “It is finished!”)
Then, in another article at the catholicspirit.com site we read: “Besides the Eagle’s teamwork, Father Barcellona has appreciated the Christian witness among a significant number of players, Catholic or not. That includes quarterback Nick Foles crediting God in a post-game interview after the Eagles’ Jan. 21 win over the Minnesota Vikings. “It’s a family setup,” Father Barcellona said of the Eagles. (http://thecatholicspirit.com/news/local-news/celebrating-mass-eagles-patriots-joy-east-coast-priests/) (So, with the statement, “it’s a family setup,” we see people being conditioned to think Catholics and Christians are brothers and sisters in Christ and this just is not true. And, it is never our intention to be unkind when we say these things, but we just want people to realize that Catholics need to hear the true gospel).
Now, here is just a bit about the punter for the team, Donnie Jones. One article says, “While he has faith in the next guy up on his team, he especially puts his faith in God. Jones, a lifelong Catholic, believes that God has guided him throughout his NFL career and vocation as a husband and father.
Jones attends Mass with fellow players and coaches each Saturday evening before games. When home with his wife, Aubrie, and their two children, Addison and Weston, Sunday Mass takes priority as a family (https://cruxnow.com/church-in-the-usa/2018/02/03/philadelphia-eagles-punter-sees-gods-hand-path-super-bowl/) (This is just another example to show us that whenever the team prays together they are participating in an ecumenical activity).
And, for one more example of ecumenism we have the Toyota commercial which featured a rabbi, a Catholic priest, an imam, and a Buddhist monk all attending a football game together. The words, “we’re all one team,” appear on the screen at the end of the commercial (http://adage.com/article/special-report-super-bowl/watch-toyota-religious-super-bowl-ad/312242/). (And, again, we must go back to the words of Zach Ertz who said their number one goal on this earth is to make disciples. But, with all this ecumenism any disciples they make will have received a distorted view of God’s Word which clearly says believers will not pray or join with those of other religious systems).
(A huge problem with the Super Bowl is the halftime programs. From what I have read about them in the past, for the most part, they have completely demonic influences. I don’t want to spend a lot of time on this, but we want to make sure and say these aspects are not conducive to creating true disciples. Justin Timberlake performed during halftime for this year’s Super Bowl. In 2013 he released a music video for his song, “Tunnel Vision,” which featured topless models wearing flesh colored underwear. And, someone might say well, that doesn’t specifically apply to the Super Bowl itself, but…)
Sister Tammy: “We can quite clearly see that it does have implications because as we have studied before, sister Connie, about the spirit behind the music, again what is being spoken against with these players? Are these just going along with the beat? There’s no kind of separation again, we are in this world, surrounded by it’s music the sin, idolatry of this world, do we make out we are just ok with this and same with playing a game with all demonic things involved, not joining in or drawn in to this? No real gospel being preached. The music and the spirit behind the music are not to be separated, Christ’s system is opposed to the world’s system.
I saw some of this for study purposes and believe this was demonic the things happening in the half time show, for anyone to say they are a Christian and say nothing about makes me to wonder. Just something to think about the spirit behind the music.”
And, then the performer for 2017 was Lady Gaga. She sang “Born This Way” and here is one of the verses from the song:
No matter gay, straight, or bi,
Lesbian, transgendered life,
I'm on the right track baby,
I was born to survive.
Additionally, Lady Gaga told Britain's News of the World, "I realized my father's sister, Joanne, who'd died at 19, had instilled her spirit in me." "She was a painter and a poet - and I had a spiritual vision I had to finish her business. I never met her but she's been one of the most important figures in my life." She feels a very strong connection to her and believes that she is the reincarnation of her Aunt Joanne (http://www.iisis.net/index.php%3Fpage%3Dlady-gaga-aunt-joanne-germanotta-reincarnation-walter-semkiw-kevin-ryerson-past-life). (And, I know some of the listeners may feel we are just being too picky with some of the points we’ve made, but should born again believers really want to be associated with such things?).
And, sister Tammy, I know you wanted to make some comments along these lines.
“People just think going to a game and just not seeing the spirit behind the music and not saying anything when these songs are promoting the LGBT agenda then there’s a problem if not exposing. There’s hope for sinner and this is all to confuse them and is all a one world system all headed to. This idea is that we can be anything want to in this free world”. Beware of the spirit behind the music.
Many of these players live lavish lifestyles, where God said be free from the love of money, if they give to any charities then it really is pence to them. The pride of these games also does make me wonder, where men are using God as a means to help them win a game of ball! I mean what profit does this have on souls eternally, apart from leading them to be egotistical and proud of something fading. This is what I see from listening to many of these players talk about God and the game! Please consider that God said in the last days that people will be lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, they will have a form of godliness but deny its power thereof. Please do consider we have better things to do than watch a football game when lost souls out there are perishing and watching all this junk leading them into a gospel that is about changing this world and not really focused on the problem of sin, repentance and a real relationship by being forgiven of sin and focusing on the scriptures they are using to win a game that are meant to be used to fight the good fight of the faith and to continue to hold fast to this salvation by producing the fruit of the spirit in our hearts and leading others to salvation though Jesus being lifted up, not a game of football and encouraging lost souls to think all that comes with Super Bowl is acceptable because not one of these players are standing opposed to it when they have such a great opportunity to do so. The focus of a believer ought to be on eternal life with Jesus and running from this world as much as possible. We just simply cannot mix the world with Jesus and expect anything good to be produced. We are to remain separate and keep God first in our hearts and lives.”
Thank you for that, sister Tammy.
And, sadly, rather than remaining separate, many churches for years now haven’t had a Sunday night service the day of the Super Bowl. Others have used the time as an outreach activity and invited those in the neighborhood to watch the game. Still others have giveaways the day of the Super Bowl, tell people to wear their football jerseys, and consider this an evangelization tool. I want to briefly mention something called Football Sunday which is a multi-media, outreach event created by NFL players to help turn the Super Bowl into an evangelistic opportunity for churches around the world. This began in 2015 and at the website for this product we read: “You can treat Football Sunday like a guest speaker; simply add it to your service where the sermon would normally take place and invite your community to get an inspiring inside look at faith in the NFL in a way that's relatable to all people.” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOg86bCGLIw) (https://footballsunday.com/) (You know, this is just baffling to me. I mean, what is the point? Do they expect that when people see football players who are Christians they will think Christianity is popular so now they’re supposed to want to become Christians, too? And, this goes along with the thinking of many that if we can just get people inside the doors of a church they will get saved. But, what type of Jesus and explanation concerning salvation are these unbelievers receiving when leaders in these churches don’t realize it is the Holy Spirit who draws, and not gimmicks?)
Well, that is all I have for this time, sister Tammy.
READING TIME: 29 MINUTES
The following are the notes to the discussion found at this link (https://www.facebook.com/tammy.cheetham.77/videos/353292175170497/) for anyone who would like to study the subject more in depth.
We’re sure most everyone by now has heard about the Philadephia Eagles winning the Super Bowl and that several team members and their coach publicly gave glory to God when interviewed after the game. Several articles and interviews have highlighted the team’s emphasis on their faith and many people think this is a wonderful thing. Many people don’t think about the story behind the story and they take everything at face value. Well, we have to say that is a very dangerous thing to do.
I wonder if many, perhaps, are underestimating the manipulation and deception involved in the devil’s schemes. Is it possible that he would use something that, in and of itself, isn’t wrong to lead people off the narrow path and onto the broad path of ecumenism? I mean, a good number of men played football in high school and just generally have an affinity for the sport. And, the game of football itself isn’t evil. But, we are here to say the problem is with all the things the devil has attached to it, especially in the professional football league.
Dominionism, another Jesus, and ecumenism are all tied up together in what we are going to discuss today, just as they were in our last discussion concerning the National Prayer Breakfast. You know, if it’s happening in the public square and being reported on by CBN there’s a very good chance these will be the topics involved.
We are going to point out some things that many may have never thought of before, and/or may not have realized are happening. I know I have been quite surprised to learn some of these things myself. We all know the devil is hard at work trying to deceive Christians; he is hard at work laying the foundation for the One World Religion, but I am not sure any of us realize how many aspects of life he has already infiltrated in this way.
We realize not everyone will agree with what we have to say in this discussion especially when we discuss separation from the world, but you know, we can easily make idols of things without even realizing it.
Even if there were not all these problems with the modern football situation that we will discuss today there could still be a problem concerning how much time people give over to things of this life. You know, it is possible to have attachments to things that aren't sinful, but these things are getting in the way of our relationship with Jesus.
I want to begin by mentioning Dominionism, specifically the 7 Mtn. mandate aspect, with the idea of football players declaring their allegiance to Christ. I am not going to say I know exactly what is in the hearts of the coach or any of the players who have made statements along these lines, but we can look at their actions and examine what Jesus they present, and we will speak more to that in a few moments. First, I want to mention a Facebook post by Shawn Bolz who is a big name in the NAR. The listeners may remember that he supposedly spoke words of knowledge off his Iphone at the Azusa Now event in April of 2016. Well, this is his “prophetic perspective” concerning the Eagles’ win:
“Not to over spiritualize it but I think the Eagles winning over the Patriots in the Super Bowl is prophetic. Biblically, Eagles represent spiritual authority, prophetic significance, and big God-like vision. There are the spiritual colonels of God’s Air Force being appointed. They are the king of the airways, the sky and dominate the territories. Eagles often represent those called to the media and entertainment mountain and God is releasing some who will dominate some of the entertainment and media space claiming territory for His purpose. It is America’s time right now. God is reorganizing our nation and He is up to more than the enemy is. God has more good planned for us then the enemy has bad plans for.” (https://www.facebook.com/thecall/posts/10156255239613578)
(So, we see the mention of the “entertainment mountain” and we recognize this is where football players who are using their platform to share the “gospel” would fit. Before we continue we want to make sure and say we are not saying everyone on a job somewhere who shares the gospel is a dominionist. But, it is always good to examine the gospel being presented by those in the public eye because it is often a social gospel; it is often man-centered, and sad to say, not the true gospel of salvation.
As we continue through this discussion we will note that we must question the authenticity of the gospel that is being shared. And, then his words about America? Wow. It is America’s time right now? He has more good planned for us than the enemy has bad? Has this man not read the book of Revelation? Has he not read 2 Tim. 3 speaking of perilous times and evil men waxing worse and worse?)
And, then, Lance Wallnau, who is one of the most visible (change) promoters of the 7MM posted his prediction on Facebook of an Eagles’ win about two hours before the game started.
“Here’s why I predicted the Eagles,” he said.
1. When I heard about the Eagles quarterback going to seminary to train to be a Pastor and that he was unashamed to say how the Lord led him to this team I said “Hold Everything... this has got that feeling all over it that I get when I’m sensing the Lord on something.”
2. There is a move of some sort on the team where a number of guys are getting saved and baptized. It’s something on the team right now.
3. The words “Pastor” and “Eagle” came together and I saw that the Lord is releasing a “seer” anointing on Pastors to start to prepare the flock for what’s coming in America. The shaking and the Awakening. (Well, when someone is a purveyor of the false teaching of the 7MM, we know that what he is sensing is not of the Lord. And, then Wallnau says, guys are getting saved and baptized. Well, we must research and find out what gospel was preached before we assume these were true salvations and baptisms. And, then, an awakening is coming to America? You know, over the past two years we have heard so many predictions of a great revival or great awakening, but they have all been made by false teachers).
You know, people assume when they hear someone say the name of Jesus, say the words church or Christian, that they are using these terms as they are defined in the Bible. If anyone wants to challenge the authenticity of Christianity in any given situation they are vilified, called judgmental, mean, and so forth. Here is one example:
Tim Tebow shared a picture on his Facebook page of one of the Eagles’ players getting baptized last October. The caption read: “Big things are happening in the Eagles’ locker room” (https://www.facebook.com/771352126367172/videos/733333916860587/?hc_ref=ARRT7vd3py_KeDTK_zKNquGyU1YkqkS-t8PVekZmCVfmKDFAXYSY65ZtyXzslC9A-fw).
One lady posted the following comment: “Real question here is ...is he saved? Baptism will not get you into heaven. Anyone can be dunked in water but if you don't have Christ in your heart then all you are doing is getting wet!” (Well, there were close to 400 replies to her comment and almost all were critical of her comment, calling her judgmental, and so forth. But, she is asking a valid question. Additionally, we should definitely have concerns about events that Tim Tebow promotes because he spoke at the Together 2016 event which was completely ecumenical, and his mother spoke at the March for Life event this past January 19. One of our recent discussions was about this event and we presented information concerning its Catholic foundation. I will include the link for the discussion in case anyone would like more information about this event and its history) (https://www.facebook.com/tammy.cheetham.77/videos/341624989670549/).
Then, in an article entitled “‘All the Glory Belongs to God': The Faith of the Super Bowl-Winning Philadelphia Eagles” we read:
Do faith and football go together? For players on the Philadelphia Eagles, the answer is a resounding "yes."
Before the game, Carson Wentz tweeted this:
"My bro is gonna shine bright tonight! (He was speaking of Nick Foles who filled in as quarterback since Wentz was injured). So excited to see him & this team go out and compete tonight. Been through it all this year as a team, & yet, here we are! WE ALL WE GOT. WE ALL WE NEED. God's writing an unbelievable story and He's getting all the glory! #AO1 #flyeaglesfly" (So, he says we all we got, we all we need and in the next statement says God’s writing an unbelievable story. That’s a bit contradictory. But, again, as we often see with those whose “faith” is in the public eye, with this whole concept of the 7MM, we hear God mentioned, but we never hear about Jesus and what He came to do for us).
"I think the biggest thing that we're always challenging each other with is just to not lose sight of the bigger picture," Wentz said. "I think wins, losses, highs, lows, everything that comes with this game, it's so easy to take your mind and your eyes off of the ultimate prize, and that's living for the Lord." (Now, not to be picky, and yes, we want to live for the Lord, but that isn’t the ultimate prize. Spending eternity with Jesus is).
"And so I think it's really kind of something to where we're all just kind of binding together to kind of keep each other sharpened and keep pushing forward," he continued. That unity helped propel them to the NFC Championship game and now a 41-33 win over the Patriots in the Super Bowl (http://www.breakingchristiannews.com/articles/display_art.html?ID=23605). (Now, I cannot help but think of the message being portrayed when I hear certain buzzwords like unity. Since the ecumenical movement is all around us, I just cannot believe it is a coincidence that we would hear this word, especially since there are Catholics on this team and one of its chaplains is Catholic as we will discuss in a few moments).
Next, I want to share about a video on Facebook on the Conservative Daily page. As of Feb. 20 it had 23 million views. The first shot is of the Eagles’ team members kneeling in prayer on the sidelines before a game; there are a few players from another team with them. The caption reads, “Super Bowl champion Eagles use their fame to praise God.” Then, we see and hear Coach Doug Peterson saying the following as he’s being interviewed after the game: “I can only give the praise to my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ for giving me this opportunity.” And, then, Zach Erzt says: “I mean glory to God, first and foremost. We wouldn’t be here without Him.” And, then, Nick Foles: “Unbelievable. All glory to God.” The Philadelphia Eagles are the new Super Bowl champions. Their story has been an underdog tale since the beginning of the season…and they are crediting their faith as being a key element to their success. The Eagles are one of the most religious teams in the NFL. Though separate journeys led them to the NFL and the Philadelphia Eagles, they sought an outlet to come together and created a way to share their faith.
The interviewer asks Zach Ertz, “How important is it for you to use your platform to glorify God? He replies, “I mean, it’s huge. Our number one goal on this earth is to make disciples. That’s the only job that we are, pretty much, that we want to do. So faith and football this Sunday is huge. This is a platform that we have to draw people to the word, to Jesus. It’s something that we don’t take for granted by any means. It’s obviously a responsibility, but we love that.” (https://www.facebook.com/TheDeclarationIJR/videos/10156534055997971/) (Now, while some people would say this is just awesome; look how they’re giving glory to God. And, wow, the coach actually said, “My Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ!” But, we need to examine exactly what type of Christianity is being presented. As I already noted, we must question the authenticity of the gospel that is being shared. But, just in terms of the entire professional football scene itself, one cannot reconcile saying we have a platform to “draw people to the word, to Jesus” knowing the sins that are connected and are promoted by the ads concerning drinking and then we have inappropriately dressed cheerleaders, gambling, paganism and the occult being glorified during halftime shows and on and on. Ertz says their number one goal is to make disciples, but what kind of disciples are being made in this environment?).
Now, I want to read from an article, published on Nov. 4, 2017, entitled “Eagles’ Chaplain Offers Insight into Team’s Success.” Here are some excerpts:
The Philadelphia Eagles are dominant in the NFL right now- with one of the best starts to the season they’ve had in years. But what’s the secret? “There’s something significantly special about this team,” says Rev. Dr. Herb Lusk, one of the team chaplains, who played running back for the Philadelphia Eagles for three seasons beginning in 1976. “I believe they have a divine connection - I really do.”
Once an Eagle always an Eagle, Rev. Lusk has served as team chaplain for the past 15 years, leading team pre-game prayers and Bible study. Lusk says this team is led by the faithful from Coach Doug Peterson, who he says “never misses Bible study,” to Quarterback Carson Wentz, who has been open about his Christian faith.
But Lusk says this team is different, because the entire team seems driven by a higher purpose. “You’ve got a guy like Chris Long who donated his salary to public education and who raised over a million dollars for water wells in Africa,” says Lusk. Lusk, who is currently senior pastor at Greater Exodus Baptist Church, was honored this week for 35 years of service. The community change agent also leads People for People, Inc., a non-profit that has empowered underserved communities. (http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2017/11/04/eagles-chaplain-offers-insight-into-teams-success/)
This chaplain spoke at the Festival of Families with Pope Francis in Philadelphia on Sept. 29, 2015. https://www.c-span.org/video/?c4552942/pastor-lusk-pope-francis
He read the parable of the prodigal son after greeting the crowd by saying, “My brothers and sisters in the Lord.” (So, this article gives examples of what we mean when we say the social gospel is being preached. And, as we always say, believers will help others in times of need, but to describe these particular acts such as raising money for water wells and leading the organization People for People, in an article meant to convince us the team has a divine connection, shows us another gospel is being presented. And, there is definitely an ecumenical aspect to the entire situation due to the fact that some team members are Catholics, which we will discuss more later on, and noting that the chaplain spoke at the Festival of Families which featured the pope and he addressed everyone in the crowd, Catholics and others alike, as brothers and sisters in the Lord).
An additional example that shows “another Jesus” being presented is that Carrie Underwood’s video performance of “The Champion” opened this year’s Super Bowl broadcast (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/16/carrie-underwood-gay-marriage-country-singer_n_2488967.html). (Carrie Underwood claims to be a Christian even though she supports gay marriage. And, we are not trying to be unkind, but we must say homosexuality is a sin that Jesus bled and died for. And, He didn’t die so we could remain in our sins. I would like to read 1 Cor. 6:9-11 “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such WERE some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” We see a specific reference to homosexuality in verse 9 and verse 11 says and such WERE some of you. This is sinful behavior and anyone who claims their Christianity allows for homosexuality and gay marriage follows “another Jesus”).
In addition, a rapper named Ludacris sings parts of the song with her. He wasn’t on the video, but one could hear his voice. Ludacris has a song called “Move B_tch” – it repeats that phrase many times and includes even more disgusting lyrics which I will not repeat. (Now, a true believer would know not to engage in a business partnership with someone like this rapper. They would know the scriptures about remaining separate which we will discuss later. And, football players who are interested in making true disciples would realize this environment is not conducive to doing so).
Then, part of the chorus to the song, “The Champion,” goes like this. “I am invincible, unbreakable, unstoppable, unshakeable; they knock me down, I get up again, I am the champion, you’re gon’ know my name.” (So, it’s all focused on self. I cannot help but think of Luke 16:15 which says, “And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God”).
Here is part of the second verse to the song: “And this is my chance I’m taking, all them old records, I’m breaking; all you people watching on the TV, you go ahead and put your bets on me.”
Fox Business News reported that this Super Bowl game was projected to draw about $4.76 billion in total bets, according to the American Gaming Association, a lobbying group that represents the casino industry. Of that total, AGA estimates that more than $4.6 billion, or roughly 97%, will be gambled through unlicensed sportsbooks and other illegal venues (http://www.foxbusiness.com/features/2018/01/30/super-bowl-betting-total-to-top-4-7b-with-97-bet-illegally.html) (And, of course, whether legal or illegal, gambling is still wrong. So, again this setting is not conducive to making disciples).
And, here is one more example of this team presenting another Jesus. In an article on the faith.it site we read, “While several of the Philadelphia Eagles players have either found Christ through the love and examples set by their teammates, or simply grown in their own faith journey, Wentz makes it clear that the goal is not to convert people to Christianity, but rather to love God and love His people.
“I’m going to be genuine, I’m going to be authentic with believers, non-believers—it doesn’t matter. I am going to love on them. I’m going to treat them all the same. I’m going to respect them,” he said. “At the same time, as the leader of the football team, I am going to lead everybody the same… I think guys are willing to talk when you don’t have this self-righteous attitude; when you have that mutual respect, it just makes it a healthier environment” (https://faithit.com/philadelphia-eagles-faith-inspiring-millions/).
Sister Tammy, I know you wanted to address this. (Some of the following comments by sister Tammy were not in the original discussion).
“The spiritual implications with this is that just mention being an example to the people, with no intention of converting the soul and sharing the gospel, just they think showing the love and being nice etc. will saved people.
I mean we can see Jesus spent time with sinners (Matthew :10-13) and loved them, but His intention was to save and seek the lost – convert them - this is love!
Many are using this as a proof that it is ok to mix Super Bowl and what it engages in with Jesus and see that joining with sinners is how we are to do this, yes Jesus never was never around sinners where the Gospel wasn’t preached, where sin was not mentioned and conviction wasn’t evident, yet this is not the case here, there is no clear cut separation and we cannot use this as a means to just engage with sin and remain around it with no animosity and as though we are all ok with it. The Bible says that what does is profit a man to gain this whole world and lose their very souls? It’s all this talk of if we just show love, which is not a true portrayal of the Gospel. The first things Jesus dealt with was the state of the soul and told people to repent. The Holy Spirit will always make a cut between truth and error and always point to Jesus. We will be known for standing against sin and giving people Jesus and not the worlds entertainment as a plug to attract the unsaved. The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation and we do not need to go and sit in the thick of an event that we know promotes violence and all these other vices but rather expose what this all is promoting. The best way to reach these souls would be by preaching the Gospel and warning people about the things happening here, not sitting in it all as though you are having fun with it.
Winning a game is not bringing glory to God, what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the eyes of God
Look to the Word of God, these are not dealing with the sin problem of the heart, yes, God is love but what is love? It abhors what is evil and cleaves to that which is good, it points to Jesus and shows us we are guilty sinners in need of redemption and a new heart.
It’s all this unity and everyone just getting along with no true separation and another gospel really is going out to the world.
There was an advert with all different religions coming together promoting this and this is the ecumenical agenda all pushing for a one world religion, everyone gets along in the game, unity etc. with no Jesus! Or another! Also, the portrayal of Christianity going out to an unbelieving world where they see baptism and bible reading lifted up more than Jesus, this gives them the false impression that baptism makes them a Christian if there is no true gospel alongside what true baptism means when one is born again.
I know many situations arise on how far do we go with separation in this world, where Jesus told us we can eat with sinners as long as we are not engaging in what they are doing such as idolatry or types of sin that we know is not going to be pleasing to God and without us showing a displeasure towards and feeling uncomfortable about or around, but always giving them the solution which is Jesus. If someone is actively engaging in sin then we, as much as is possible quite simply remove ourselves from that situation, yet when Jesus said it was ok to eat with an unbeliever, he never said leave the meal because of their sin of idolatry, but if they say that meat has been offered to an idol, He simply said to not eat it, for their sakes and conscience, so each situation of course needs the leading of the Holy Spirit but all times we must show we are not joining in with sin and rebuke it, whilst giving the solution. Doing all to the glory of God.
The problem with the Super Bowl is that this is not happening and a false gospel is going out from these players. We for sure need to understand that a true believer will not purposely want to offend God by what they are seeing as innocently watching or playing a game, but the problems lie with all what is connected to this and the nudge the Spirit gives in our hearts is Who we are to follow.
We of course are not saying to go out of this world where we are surrounded by sin and people sinning, yet to keep the testimony pure and let the unbelieving world see the separation and character of God as we tell of Him and preach His Gospel while letting Him work in and through us day by day. If we are sat at a Super Bowl game cheering along and getting all hyped up when men are violent to one another to gain what? A win! Well this shows not a Christian spirit but shows these things are okay and the kind of Christianity being portrayed here is very concerning indeed.
We are to remain separate from the values and ways of this world and shine in the darkness the light of the truth that Jesus saves sinners and that He gives a whole set of new desires in the heart when we are born again. Why waste our time on money, time and effort on something that really is not profitable and gives out a different Christian witness to others? There really is no mention of the true gospel that Jesus was born of a virgin, died and was buried and rose again after three days for the forgiveness of sin for us who will believe and repent, Jesus forgives and gives eternal life.
The problem is what gospel is being portrayed when we know in the last days many false teachers and prophets are gone out into this world, we are to be sober and vigilant in these perilous times.
You try saying you are a Christian and you are not showing any animosity to the world’s system really is a cause to consider.”
Thank you so much for that, sister Tammy.
Well, I wanted to move on to discuss some specific details concerning the ecumenical bent of this entire situation. In another article concerning the team’s chaplains, we learn that Fr. Tom Barcelona has been Catholic Chaplain of the Philadelphia Eagles since 2004. Fr. Tom doesn’t travel with the Eagles to away games, but has worked out a system with the Catholic Athletes for Christ to ensure that there is a priest present to celebrate Mass with the team in every city they visit. He celebrates Mass for each of the Eagles’ home games. Fr. Tom not only celebrates Mass for the players, but also may help them with marriage prep or to celebrate the baptism of their children.
The Eagles team has a great Christian atmosphere, says Fr. Tom. “With every injury and just in this season the amount of injuries and players being pulled out, and then with Carson [Wentz] and with his injury, they never gave up,” he explains. “They never gave up hope and they kept the faith, too. And I think it’s a faith-filled team there right now, believing in Jesus Christ.” (https://relevantradio.com/2018/02/philadelphia-eagles-faith-filled-team-says-chaplain/) (So, the team has a great Christian atmosphere? Well, I guess if you think ecumenism is supposed to be an aspect of Christianity! But, it’s not, of course. And, as we have been mentioning a lot lately in discussions, and in Facebook posts, Catholics worship “another Jesus.” The Catholic system denies that Jesus completed His work of redemption on the Cross according to Catechism #1405. It says: “There is no surer pledge or dearer sign of this great hope in the new heavens and new earth "in which righteousness dwells," than the Eucharist. Every time this mystery is celebrated, "the work of our redemption is carried on" and we "break the one bread that provides the medicine of immortality, the antidote for death, and the food that makes us live for ever in Jesus Christ.” But, we know the work of our redemption is NOT carried on because John 19:30 says, “It is finished!”)
Then, in another article at the catholicspirit.com site we read: “Besides the Eagle’s teamwork, Father Barcellona has appreciated the Christian witness among a significant number of players, Catholic or not. That includes quarterback Nick Foles crediting God in a post-game interview after the Eagles’ Jan. 21 win over the Minnesota Vikings. “It’s a family setup,” Father Barcellona said of the Eagles. (http://thecatholicspirit.com/news/local-news/celebrating-mass-eagles-patriots-joy-east-coast-priests/) (So, with the statement, “it’s a family setup,” we see people being conditioned to think Catholics and Christians are brothers and sisters in Christ and this just is not true. And, it is never our intention to be unkind when we say these things, but we just want people to realize that Catholics need to hear the true gospel).
Now, here is just a bit about the punter for the team, Donnie Jones. One article says, “While he has faith in the next guy up on his team, he especially puts his faith in God. Jones, a lifelong Catholic, believes that God has guided him throughout his NFL career and vocation as a husband and father.
Jones attends Mass with fellow players and coaches each Saturday evening before games. When home with his wife, Aubrie, and their two children, Addison and Weston, Sunday Mass takes priority as a family (https://cruxnow.com/church-in-the-usa/2018/02/03/philadelphia-eagles-punter-sees-gods-hand-path-super-bowl/) (This is just another example to show us that whenever the team prays together they are participating in an ecumenical activity).
And, for one more example of ecumenism we have the Toyota commercial which featured a rabbi, a Catholic priest, an imam, and a Buddhist monk all attending a football game together. The words, “we’re all one team,” appear on the screen at the end of the commercial (http://adage.com/article/special-report-super-bowl/watch-toyota-religious-super-bowl-ad/312242/). (And, again, we must go back to the words of Zach Ertz who said their number one goal on this earth is to make disciples. But, with all this ecumenism any disciples they make will have received a distorted view of God’s Word which clearly says believers will not pray or join with those of other religious systems).
(A huge problem with the Super Bowl is the halftime programs. From what I have read about them in the past, for the most part, they have completely demonic influences. I don’t want to spend a lot of time on this, but we want to make sure and say these aspects are not conducive to creating true disciples. Justin Timberlake performed during halftime for this year’s Super Bowl. In 2013 he released a music video for his song, “Tunnel Vision,” which featured topless models wearing flesh colored underwear. And, someone might say well, that doesn’t specifically apply to the Super Bowl itself, but…)
Sister Tammy: “We can quite clearly see that it does have implications because as we have studied before, sister Connie, about the spirit behind the music, again what is being spoken against with these players? Are these just going along with the beat? There’s no kind of separation again, we are in this world, surrounded by it’s music the sin, idolatry of this world, do we make out we are just ok with this and same with playing a game with all demonic things involved, not joining in or drawn in to this? No real gospel being preached. The music and the spirit behind the music are not to be separated, Christ’s system is opposed to the world’s system.
I saw some of this for study purposes and believe this was demonic the things happening in the half time show, for anyone to say they are a Christian and say nothing about makes me to wonder. Just something to think about the spirit behind the music.”
And, then the performer for 2017 was Lady Gaga. She sang “Born This Way” and here is one of the verses from the song:
No matter gay, straight, or bi,
Lesbian, transgendered life,
I'm on the right track baby,
I was born to survive.
Additionally, Lady Gaga told Britain's News of the World, "I realized my father's sister, Joanne, who'd died at 19, had instilled her spirit in me." "She was a painter and a poet - and I had a spiritual vision I had to finish her business. I never met her but she's been one of the most important figures in my life." She feels a very strong connection to her and believes that she is the reincarnation of her Aunt Joanne (http://www.iisis.net/index.php%3Fpage%3Dlady-gaga-aunt-joanne-germanotta-reincarnation-walter-semkiw-kevin-ryerson-past-life). (And, I know some of the listeners may feel we are just being too picky with some of the points we’ve made, but should born again believers really want to be associated with such things?).
And, sister Tammy, I know you wanted to make some comments along these lines.
“People just think going to a game and just not seeing the spirit behind the music and not saying anything when these songs are promoting the LGBT agenda then there’s a problem if not exposing. There’s hope for sinner and this is all to confuse them and is all a one world system all headed to. This idea is that we can be anything want to in this free world”. Beware of the spirit behind the music.
Many of these players live lavish lifestyles, where God said be free from the love of money, if they give to any charities then it really is pence to them. The pride of these games also does make me wonder, where men are using God as a means to help them win a game of ball! I mean what profit does this have on souls eternally, apart from leading them to be egotistical and proud of something fading. This is what I see from listening to many of these players talk about God and the game! Please consider that God said in the last days that people will be lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, they will have a form of godliness but deny its power thereof. Please do consider we have better things to do than watch a football game when lost souls out there are perishing and watching all this junk leading them into a gospel that is about changing this world and not really focused on the problem of sin, repentance and a real relationship by being forgiven of sin and focusing on the scriptures they are using to win a game that are meant to be used to fight the good fight of the faith and to continue to hold fast to this salvation by producing the fruit of the spirit in our hearts and leading others to salvation though Jesus being lifted up, not a game of football and encouraging lost souls to think all that comes with Super Bowl is acceptable because not one of these players are standing opposed to it when they have such a great opportunity to do so. The focus of a believer ought to be on eternal life with Jesus and running from this world as much as possible. We just simply cannot mix the world with Jesus and expect anything good to be produced. We are to remain separate and keep God first in our hearts and lives.”
Thank you for that, sister Tammy.
And, sadly, rather than remaining separate, many churches for years now haven’t had a Sunday night service the day of the Super Bowl. Others have used the time as an outreach activity and invited those in the neighborhood to watch the game. Still others have giveaways the day of the Super Bowl, tell people to wear their football jerseys, and consider this an evangelization tool. I want to briefly mention something called Football Sunday which is a multi-media, outreach event created by NFL players to help turn the Super Bowl into an evangelistic opportunity for churches around the world. This began in 2015 and at the website for this product we read: “You can treat Football Sunday like a guest speaker; simply add it to your service where the sermon would normally take place and invite your community to get an inspiring inside look at faith in the NFL in a way that's relatable to all people.” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOg86bCGLIw) (https://footballsunday.com/) (You know, this is just baffling to me. I mean, what is the point? Do they expect that when people see football players who are Christians they will think Christianity is popular so now they’re supposed to want to become Christians, too? And, this goes along with the thinking of many that if we can just get people inside the doors of a church they will get saved. But, what type of Jesus and explanation concerning salvation are these unbelievers receiving when leaders in these churches don’t realize it is the Holy Spirit who draws, and not gimmicks?)
Well, that is all I have for this time, sister Tammy.