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Getbig Main Boards => Gossip & Opinions => Topic started by: Croatch on June 11, 2015, 06:30:59 PM

Title: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Croatch on June 11, 2015, 06:30:59 PM
Give yourself a swift smack in the face....compliments of the Croatch.  How so many are that out of touch with reality is astounding.  I was looking up some statistics.  Scarier than the Ms. Olympia line up.
Snake oil salesman x10.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: bradistani on June 11, 2015, 06:34:06 PM
Give yourself a swift smack in the face....compliments of the Croatch.  How so many are that out of touch with reality is astounding.  I was looking up some statistics.  Scarier than the Ms. Olympia line up.
Snake oil salesman x10.

 :D ;D
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Croatch on June 11, 2015, 06:35:56 PM
Apparently, @100 billion was donated to religious institutions in the U.S. alone back in 2008.  Holy shit.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Tapeworm on June 11, 2015, 06:49:48 PM
Depends how you look at it.  I was asked to repair a lath & stucco ceiling in a church and I quoted about 1/2 my normal price.  I asked the Padre, in return for the discount, to just mention in his weekly sermon that Tapeworm's Building Maintenance is Jesus' Choice for all your building maintenance needs.  Also that Tapeworm's  Backhoe and Freight Services come with a 100% demon free guarantee, and that we service nearly all makes and models of parishioner's daughters.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: polychronopolous on June 11, 2015, 06:56:30 PM
Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. - Malachi 3:10
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Carlton G. Long on June 11, 2015, 06:58:07 PM
Apparently, @100 billion was donated to religious institutions in the U.S. alone back in 2008.  Holy shit.

Has this impacted your ability to worship oiled men in thongs?
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: calfzilla on June 11, 2015, 07:28:29 PM
And somehow these scam artists convinced the guvment to let them go tax free
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: ritch on June 11, 2015, 07:30:21 PM
must be all old people donating. When that generation is gone, it's not looking good for churches...
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: James28 on June 11, 2015, 08:58:35 PM
Why would I be that fucking stupid. Giving money to a congregation of idiots to spend on their hand snacks during 'church meetings'. Every church I've had something to do with, the preachers were either stealing money or committing some kind of fraud, or banging some of the Milfs in the audience. While I could easily forgive them the latter, the former really goes against what I see as saintly behaviour.

Even Tay Tay now wants to be a church preacher. Then his flock would be lead by an Aids infected former gay escort.

Fuck all this church and religion bullshit.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Croatch on June 11, 2015, 11:57:50 PM
must be all old people donating. When that generation is gone, it's not looking good for churches...
I view most old people as half retarded bad drivers.  They were a generation who was taught to just listen and not question.  With the Internet and many free thinkers, religion is on a decline.  Back in the day, few would question things.  Imagine what the church would have to lose if God was someday disproved by science.  I guess a few billion dollars is all.
At one time I believed in God, then I grew up and realized it was just straight bullshit.  How adults believe in this is mind blowing....uhhh, but it's in the book.  Yikes.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Brutal Triceps on June 12, 2015, 12:19:59 AM
Religion is a disease that destroys rational thinking.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: SuperTed on June 12, 2015, 02:37:21 AM
Hey retard, you made an identical thread only last month:

http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?topic=573118.0

 :-\ ::)

You got dementia or something? ???
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: SF1900 on June 12, 2015, 02:45:42 AM
Hey retard, you made an identical thread only last month:

http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?topic=573118.0

 :-\ ::)

You got dementia or something? ???

When you e been a gym for a few decades...you tend to noticed a few things.  In a 60 minutes workout, you probably have 30 minutes of idol time.  It's good to be aware of others in life.  Why would I care, because I care about lifting in general.  The current majority of tools who train are a disgrace to lifting.  Attention whoring on Instagram, drug reliant, iPhone fingering, multiple training partners, pussy footing their routines...half reppers...and so on.  It's the majority...that's the problem.  One delusional bunch.
Very little heart in today's gyms.
Being secure and aware have nothing to do with each other.  You know how many jokers I've seen in my gym go from a piss poor physique, after training for a few years, to bloated wannabes?  Most can't do jack without drugs, but at least train hard if you take them.  It's become the biggest beta bitch activity one can partake in these days.  Drug assisted pussy liftin.  Usually, juice is the consolation prize for when you fail.  I've seen it at least a half dozen times. 
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: SuperTed on June 12, 2015, 02:56:40 AM
When you e been a gym for a few decades...you tend to noticed a few things.  In a 60 minutes workout, you probably have 30 minutes of idol time.  It's good to be aware of others in life.  Why would I care, because I care about lifting in general.  The current majority of tools who train are a disgrace to lifting.  Attention whoring on Instagram, drug reliant, iPhone fingering, multiple training partners, pussy footing their routines...half reppers...and so on.  It's the majority...that's the problem.  One delusional bunch.
Very little heart in today's gyms.
Being secure and aware have nothing to do with each other.  You know how many jokers I've seen in my gym go from a piss poor physique, after training for a few years, to bloated wannabes?  Most can't do jack without drugs, but at least train hard if you take them.  It's become the biggest beta bitch activity one can partake in these days.  Drug assisted pussy liftin.  Usually, juice is the consolation prize for when you fail.  I've seen it at least a half dozen times.  

LOL! :D ;D

I'm looking forward to Croatch's upcoming thread in a few weeks whining about "pussies on the juice". ::)

I actually quite like some of his posts, but what's with all this repetitive BS? He doesn't even wait a fucking month before he recycles a thread. :-\
I've noticed there are a few posters here who literally just write the same stuff over and over again. :D
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: calfzilla on June 12, 2015, 03:04:48 AM
LOL! :D ;D

I'm looking forward to Croatch's upcoming thread in a few weeks whining about "pussies on the juice". ::)

I actually quite like some his posts, but what's with all his repetitive BS? He doesn't even wait a fucking month before he recycles a thread. :-\
I've noticed there are a few posters here who literally just write the same stuff over and over again. :D

Then he'll bitch about fake tits.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: robcguns on June 12, 2015, 03:42:38 AM
My dad always told me if i want to be rich start a church.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: ritch on June 12, 2015, 05:16:33 AM
I view most old people as half retarded bad drivers.  They were a generation who was taught to just listen and not question.  With the Internet and many free thinkers, religion is on a decline.  Back in the day, few would question things.  Imagine what the church would have to lose if God was someday disproved by science.  I guess a few billion dollars is all.
At one time I believed in God, then I grew up and realized it was just straight bullshit.  How adults believe in this is mind blowing....uhhh, but it's in the book.  Yikes.

you make a lot of sense here. Now that I can think for myself, I have a hard time convincing myself there is a god. But you spelled god with a capital G, any reason for that?
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Croatch on June 12, 2015, 01:26:57 PM
you make a lot of sense here. Now that I can think for myself, I have a hard time convincing myself there is a god. But you spelled god with a capital G, any reason for that?
Brainwashed...good call.
Then he'll bitch about fake tits.
Thanks for the reminder.  I'll get my next ground breaking thread ready for next week....too soon?

Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: ritch on June 12, 2015, 01:29:57 PM
Brainwashed...good call.Thanks for the reminder.  I'll get my next ground breaking thread ready for next week....too soon?



I swear though, I kinda hesitate to capitalize the letter "g" when god is spelled, lol... But now more and more, really not seeing how it makes  sense to believe. I do good things outta my own will, not to avoid some place of eternal fire, lol to make me be "good".

Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Croatch on June 12, 2015, 01:38:48 PM

I swear though, I kinda hesitate to capitalize the letter "g" when god is spelled, lol... But now more and more, really not seeing how it makes  sense to believe. I do good things outta my own will, not to avoid some place of eternal fire, lol to make me be "good".


The red guy with the pitch fork is waiting....careful out there bud....I'm serious.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: ritch on June 12, 2015, 01:45:32 PM
The red guy with the pitch fork is waiting....careful out there bud....I'm serious.

uh oh, better go do some good deed in my day to balance things out!
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: LittleJ on June 12, 2015, 01:51:32 PM
I haven't been to church in 12 years. To be honest I've donated hundreds of dollars to the church as a child growing up. In the past I've tried to get the church to donate money to someone i knew in need but they declined. They can accept millions of dollars in donations for the pastor but act shady when you ask for something.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Croatch on June 12, 2015, 01:57:45 PM
I haven't been to church in 12 years. To be honest I've donated hundreds of dollars to the church as a child growing up. In the past I've tried to get the church to donate money to someone i knew in need but they declined. They can accept millions of dollars in donations for the pastor but act shady when you ask for something.
Why am I not surprised.
Adults holding on to fairy tales.  And coming off their hard earned cash to support....umm, I'm not sure what...but god needs money.
It allows people to feel better about themselves to give.  I'm here to help those realize, you're simply a schmuck.
Go out at night and feed the homeless.  That speaks more than any donation.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: 2Thick on June 12, 2015, 01:58:18 PM
How about taxes?

I don't really care what people choose to do with their own money - that's their business. But yes, there are suckers born every minute...
http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/13/living/creflo-dollar-jet-feat/ (http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/13/living/creflo-dollar-jet-feat/)



I'm much more bothered by the govt taking more and more of our money via taxes.


Now big brother barry even wants to screw up our neighborhoods.  ::)

http://thehilltalk.com/2015/06/12/obama-hud-aim-desegregate-residential-areas-new-set-housing-regulations/ (http://thehilltalk.com/2015/06/12/obama-hud-aim-desegregate-residential-areas-new-set-housing-regulations/)

http://www.newsmax.com/Newsfront/HUD-diversity-new-rule/2013/08/07/id/519305/ (http://www.newsmax.com/Newsfront/HUD-diversity-new-rule/2013/08/07/id/519305/)

http://www.wnd.com/2015/06/obama-to-regulate-diversity-in-white-suburbs/ (http://www.wnd.com/2015/06/obama-to-regulate-diversity-in-white-suburbs/)

http://dailycaller.com/2015/06/12/obama-administration-seeks-to-diversify-wealthier-communities-through-hud-provision/ (http://dailycaller.com/2015/06/12/obama-administration-seeks-to-diversify-wealthier-communities-through-hud-provision/)

http://www.foxbusiness.com/economy-policy/2015/06/11/giuliani-disputes-obamas-plan-to-diversify-neighborhoods/ (http://www.foxbusiness.com/economy-policy/2015/06/11/giuliani-disputes-obamas-plan-to-diversify-neighborhoods/)
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: ritch on June 12, 2015, 01:59:42 PM
How about taxes?

I don't really care what people choose to do with their own money - that's their business. But yes, there are suckers born every minute...
http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/13/living/creflo-dollar-jet-feat/ (http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/13/living/creflo-dollar-jet-feat/)



I'm much more bothered by the govt taking more and more of our money via taxes.


Now big brother barry even wants to screw up our neighborhoods.  ::)

http://thehilltalk.com/2015/06/12/obama-hud-aim-desegregate-residential-areas-new-set-housing-regulations/ (http://thehilltalk.com/2015/06/12/obama-hud-aim-desegregate-residential-areas-new-set-housing-regulations/)

http://www.newsmax.com/Newsfront/HUD-diversity-new-rule/2013/08/07/id/519305/ (http://www.newsmax.com/Newsfront/HUD-diversity-new-rule/2013/08/07/id/519305/)

http://www.wnd.com/2015/06/obama-to-regulate-diversity-in-white-suburbs/ (http://www.wnd.com/2015/06/obama-to-regulate-diversity-in-white-suburbs/)

http://dailycaller.com/2015/06/12/obama-administration-seeks-to-diversify-wealthier-communities-through-hud-provision/ (http://dailycaller.com/2015/06/12/obama-administration-seeks-to-diversify-wealthier-communities-through-hud-provision/)

http://www.foxbusiness.com/economy-policy/2015/06/11/giuliani-disputes-obamas-plan-to-diversify-neighborhoods/ (http://www.foxbusiness.com/economy-policy/2015/06/11/giuliani-disputes-obamas-plan-to-diversify-neighborhoods/)

Come see what we pay in Canada then tell me who's paying too much in taxes...
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Croatch on June 12, 2015, 02:22:57 PM
Come see what we pay in Canada then tell me who's paying too much in taxes...
How's the medical there?  Aren't prescriptions even free?
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: ritch on June 12, 2015, 02:24:34 PM
Quote from: Croatch link=topic=574137.msg8091806#msg8091806 date=14341441[b
[/b]77]
How's the medical there?  Aren't prescriptions even free?

Nope.
The medical is not perfect but can expect to wait 12ish hours at the emergency. But that is free.

Lots of walk in clinics, free also, but not if you need meds.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: 2Thick on June 12, 2015, 02:26:17 PM
Nothing is "free" unless you're too "poor" to pay taxes. And when the govt starts trying to make things "fair", "free", "affordable", etc quality goes down the toilet.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: bears on June 12, 2015, 02:36:23 PM
Nope.
The medical is not perfect but can expect to wait 12ish hours at the emergency. But that is free.

Lots of walk in clinics, free also, but not if you need meds.

I've always found it funny how so many idiot fucking liberals paint Canada as this health care utopia simply because they're conditioned to think that way. 
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Natural Man on June 13, 2015, 03:45:02 PM
I view most old people as half retarded bad drivers.  They were a generation who was taught to just listen and not question.  With the Internet and many free thinkers, religion is on a decline.  Back in the day, few would question things.  Imagine what the church would have to lose if God was someday disproved by science.  I guess a few billion dollars is all.
At one time I believed in God, then I grew up and realized it was just straight bullshit.  How adults believe in this is mind blowing....uhhh, but it's in the book.  Yikes.
All religions are based on the same basic principle; be nice to those who think like you and follow the same bullshit god and ideas so your survival and the survival of the group is assured... and convert or kill everyone else so you will inherit more territory. Needless to say, it s only an animal behavior.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: syntaxmachine on June 14, 2015, 08:15:29 AM
How about taxes?

I'm much more bothered by the govt taking more and more of our money via taxes.

(https://img.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/files/2014/04/taxes.png)
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: 2Thick on June 14, 2015, 01:17:52 PM
(https://img.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/files/2014/04/taxes.png)

I'm among those who pay higher rates on personal income and investment income now than I did years ago. And I own a small business and also have a trust to shield myself from things like lawsuits, as do most of the clients I work for. Trusts and corps are also taxed highly in the US, and I'm often taxed more than once on some of the same money.

http://www.atr.org/full-list-ACA-tax-hikes-a6996 (http://www.atr.org/full-list-ACA-tax-hikes-a6996)

4. Obamacare Surtax on Investment Income (Tax hike of $123 billion/takes effect Jan. 2013): Creation of a new, 3.8 percent surtax on investment income earned in households making at least $250,000 ($200,000 single). This would result in the following top tax rates on investment income: Bill: Reconciliation Act; Page: 87-93

 

 

Capital Gains

Dividends

Other*

2011-2012

15%

15%

35%

2013+ (current law)

23.8%

43.4%

43.4%

2013+ (Obama budget)

23.8%

23.8%

43.4%


http://www.wsj.com/articles/top-20-of-earners-pay-84-of-income-tax-1428674384 (http://www.wsj.com/articles/top-20-of-earners-pay-84-of-income-tax-1428674384)

http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2014/oct/15/feds-tax-take-hits-all-time-high/?page=all (http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2014/oct/15/feds-tax-take-hits-all-time-high/?page=all)
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: The Ugly on June 14, 2015, 01:34:24 PM
Depends how you look at it.  I was asked to repair a lath & stucco ceiling in a church and I quoted about 1/2 my normal price.  I asked the Padre, in return for the discount, to just mention in his weekly sermon that Tapeworm's Building Maintenance is Jesus' Choice for all your building maintenance needs.  Also that Tapeworm's  Backhoe and Freight Services come with a 100% demon free guarantee, and that we service nearly all makes and models of parishioner's daughters.

I just like that you're Tapeworm to the outside world as well.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: bradistani on June 14, 2015, 05:15:07 PM
(http://41.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m383iaoCcj1qzio10o1_500.jpg)
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Waller on June 14, 2015, 05:46:31 PM
I haven't been to church in 12 years. To be honest I've donated hundreds of dollars to the church as a child growing up. In the past I've tried to get the church to donate money to someone i knew in need but they declined. They can accept millions of dollars in donations for the pastor but act shady when you ask for something.

What the hell were you doing as a child growing up that earned you hundreds of dollars?
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: The Ugly on June 14, 2015, 06:11:33 PM
I haven't been to church in 12 years. To be honest I've donated hundreds of dollars to the church as a child growing up. In the past I've tried to get the church to donate money to someone i knew in need but they declined. They can accept millions of dollars in donations for the pastor but act shady when you ask for something.

Jared Leto-Jesus church or Cornel West-Jesus church?
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: TuHolmes on June 14, 2015, 06:25:19 PM
must be all old people donating. When that generation is gone, it's not looking good for churches...

Church membership is down, but it's not just going to dry up.

Religion is indoctrination. Parents believe, which makes kids believe. Every now and again as the child grows up, they see things differently and they move beyond it.

Being a decent person to those around you isn't something that only religious people get to claim.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: SF1900 on June 14, 2015, 06:29:06 PM
I never undersstood how poor or low class people donate to church and the church willingly accepts.

Maybe they think if they donate to their church, "God" will bless with them millions of dollars in return.  :-\
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: TuHolmes on June 14, 2015, 06:32:35 PM
I never undersstood how poor or low middle class people donate to church and the church willingly accepts.

Maybe they think if they donate to their church, "God" will bless with them millions of dollars in return.  :-\

That is very common.

Look up Prosperity Theology.

I will copy and paste some short bits from wikipedia, but there's a lot more out there on it.

Prosperity theology (sometimes referred to as the prosperity gospel, the health and wealth gospel, or the gospel of success)[A] is a Christian religious doctrine that financial blessing is the will of God for Christians, and that faith, positive speech, and donations to Christian ministries will increase one's material wealth. Based on non-traditional interpretations of the Bible, often with emphasis on the Book of Malachi, the doctrine views the Bible as a contract between God and humans: if humans have faith in God, he will deliver his promises of security and prosperity. Confessing these promises to be true is perceived as an act of faith, which God will honor.

The doctrine emphasizes the importance of personal empowerment, proposing that it is God's will for his people to be happy. The atonement (reconciliation with God) is interpreted to include the alleviation of sickness and poverty, which are viewed as curses to be broken by faith. This is believed to be achieved through visualization and positive confession, and is often taught in mechanical and contractual terms.

It was during the Healing Revivals of the 1950s that prosperity theology first came to prominence in the United States, although commentators have linked the origins of its theology to the New Thought movement which began in the 1800s. The prosperity teaching later figured prominently in the Word of Faith movement and 1980s televangelism. In the 1990s and 2000s, it was adopted by influential leaders in the Charismatic Movement and promoted by Christian missionaries throughout the world, sometimes leading to the establishment of mega-churches. Prominent leaders in the development of prosperity theology include E. W. Kenyon, Oral Roberts, A. A. Allen, Robert Tilton, T. L. Osborn, Joel Osteen, Creflo Dollar, Kenneth Copeland, Reverend Ike and Kenneth Hagin.

Churches in which the prosperity gospel is taught are often non-denominational and usually directed by a sole pastor or leader, although some have developed multi-church networks that bear similarities to denominations. Such churches typically set aside extended time to teach about giving and request donations from the congregation, encouraging positive speech and faith. Prosperity churches often teach about financial responsibility, though some journalists and academics have criticized their advice in this area as misleading.

Prosperity theology has been criticized by leaders in the Pentecostal and Charismatic movements, as well as other Christian denominations. These leaders maintain that it is irresponsible, promotes idolatry, and is contrary to scripture. Some critics have proposed that prosperity theology cultivates authoritarian organizations, with the leaders controlling the lives of the adherents. The doctrine has also become popular in South Korea; academics have attributed some of its success to its parallels with the traditional shamanistic culture. Prosperity theology has drawn followers from the American middle class and poor, and has been likened to the cargo cult phenomenon, traditional African religion, and black liberation theology.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: The Ugly on June 14, 2015, 06:43:31 PM
That is very common.

Look up Prosperity Theology.

I will copy and paste some short bits from wikipedia, but there's a lot more out there on it.

Prosperity theology (sometimes referred to as the prosperity gospel, the health and wealth gospel, or the gospel of success)[A] is a Christian religious doctrine that financial blessing is the will of God for Christians, and that faith, positive speech, and donations to Christian ministries will increase one's material wealth. Based on non-traditional interpretations of the Bible, often with emphasis on the Book of Malachi, the doctrine views the Bible as a contract between God and humans: if humans have faith in God, he will deliver his promises of security and prosperity. Confessing these promises to be true is perceived as an act of faith, which God will honor.

The doctrine emphasizes the importance of personal empowerment, proposing that it is God's will for his people to be happy. The atonement (reconciliation with God) is interpreted to include the alleviation of sickness and poverty, which are viewed as curses to be broken by faith. This is believed to be achieved through visualization and positive confession, and is often taught in mechanical and contractual terms.

It was during the Healing Revivals of the 1950s that prosperity theology first came to prominence in the United States, although commentators have linked the origins of its theology to the New Thought movement which began in the 1800s. The prosperity teaching later figured prominently in the Word of Faith movement and 1980s televangelism. In the 1990s and 2000s, it was adopted by influential leaders in the Charismatic Movement and promoted by Christian missionaries throughout the world, sometimes leading to the establishment of mega-churches. Prominent leaders in the development of prosperity theology include E. W. Kenyon, Oral Roberts, A. A. Allen, Robert Tilton, T. L. Osborn, Joel Osteen, Creflo Dollar, Kenneth Copeland, Reverend Ike and Kenneth Hagin.

Churches in which the prosperity gospel is taught are often non-denominational and usually directed by a sole pastor or leader, although some have developed multi-church networks that bear similarities to denominations. Such churches typically set aside extended time to teach about giving and request donations from the congregation, encouraging positive speech and faith. Prosperity churches often teach about financial responsibility, though some journalists and academics have criticized their advice in this area as misleading.

Prosperity theology has been criticized by leaders in the Pentecostal and Charismatic movements, as well as other Christian denominations. These leaders maintain that it is irresponsible, promotes idolatry, and is contrary to scripture. Some critics have proposed that prosperity theology cultivates authoritarian organizations, with the leaders controlling the lives of the adherents. The doctrine has also become popular in South Korea; academics have attributed some of its success to its parallels with the traditional shamanistic culture. Prosperity theology has drawn followers from the American middle class and poor, and has been likened to the cargo cult phenomenon, traditional African religion, and black liberation theology.

Just no end to religious retardation.

Since you mentioned Osteen, how come Christians haven't condemned him yet for being a fag?
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: SF1900 on June 14, 2015, 06:48:54 PM
That is very common.

Look up Prosperity Theology.

I will copy and paste some short bits from wikipedia, but there's a lot more out there on it.

Prosperity theology (sometimes referred to as the prosperity gospel, the health and wealth gospel, or the gospel of success)[A] is a Christian religious doctrine that financial blessing is the will of God for Christians, and that faith, positive speech, and donations to Christian ministries will increase one's material wealth. Based on non-traditional interpretations of the Bible, often with emphasis on the Book of Malachi, the doctrine views the Bible as a contract between God and humans: if humans have faith in God, he will deliver his promises of security and prosperity. Confessing these promises to be true is perceived as an act of faith, which God will honor.

The doctrine emphasizes the importance of personal empowerment, proposing that it is God's will for his people to be happy. The atonement (reconciliation with God) is interpreted to include the alleviation of sickness and poverty, which are viewed as curses to be broken by faith. This is believed to be achieved through visualization and positive confession, and is often taught in mechanical and contractual terms.

It was during the Healing Revivals of the 1950s that prosperity theology first came to prominence in the United States, although commentators have linked the origins of its theology to the New Thought movement which began in the 1800s. The prosperity teaching later figured prominently in the Word of Faith movement and 1980s televangelism. In the 1990s and 2000s, it was adopted by influential leaders in the Charismatic Movement and promoted by Christian missionaries throughout the world, sometimes leading to the establishment of mega-churches. Prominent leaders in the development of prosperity theology include E. W. Kenyon, Oral Roberts, A. A. Allen, Robert Tilton, T. L. Osborn, Joel Osteen, Creflo Dollar, Kenneth Copeland, Reverend Ike and Kenneth Hagin.

Churches in which the prosperity gospel is taught are often non-denominational and usually directed by a sole pastor or leader, although some have developed multi-church networks that bear similarities to denominations. Such churches typically set aside extended time to teach about giving and request donations from the congregation, encouraging positive speech and faith. Prosperity churches often teach about financial responsibility, though some journalists and academics have criticized their advice in this area as misleading.

Prosperity theology has been criticized by leaders in the Pentecostal and Charismatic movements, as well as other Christian denominations. These leaders maintain that it is irresponsible, promotes idolatry, and is contrary to scripture. Some critics have proposed that prosperity theology cultivates authoritarian organizations, with the leaders controlling the lives of the adherents. The doctrine has also become popular in South Korea; academics have attributed some of its success to its parallels with the traditional shamanistic culture. Prosperity theology has drawn followers from the American middle class and poor, and has been likened to the cargo cult phenomenon, traditional African religion, and black liberation theology.

Oh, brotha, tell that to the poor people. God will not help them with their financial, social, psychological, or any other problem.

I swear, religion cripples one's mind.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: calfzilla on June 14, 2015, 06:53:01 PM
Oh, brotha, tell that to the poor people. God will not help them with their financial, social, psychological, or any other problem.

I swear, religion cripples one's mind.

So sad you believe that, I will pray for you.  :-\
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: SF1900 on June 14, 2015, 06:53:38 PM
So sad you believe that, I will pray for you.  :-\

Shove it up your ass.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: TuHolmes on June 14, 2015, 06:54:40 PM
Just no end to religious retardation.

Since you mentioned Osteen, how come Christians haven't condemned him yet for being a fag?

Well, to be fair, I was just copying that article.

I am not really specifying anything about it.

But, to be honest, it does fit the latent homosexuality mold.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: SF1900 on June 14, 2015, 06:56:05 PM
Just no end to religious retardation.

Since you mentioned Osteen, how come Christians haven't condemned him yet for being a fag?

(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/39/01/4d/39014d34409d2c5be02c769f46618ff4.jpg)

(http://s18.postimg.org/n44rrkxjd/11083842_979974778701693_941770958563495957_n.jpg)
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: ritch on June 14, 2015, 07:02:01 PM
(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/39/01/4d/39014d34409d2c5be02c769f46618ff4.jpg)

(http://s18.postimg.org/n44rrkxjd/11083842_979974778701693_941770958563495957_n.jpg)

Insane.
Defend that religious twits...
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: The Ugly on June 14, 2015, 07:11:11 PM
(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/39/01/4d/39014d34409d2c5be02c769f46618ff4.jpg)

(http://s18.postimg.org/n44rrkxjd/11083842_979974778701693_941770958563495957_n.jpg)

Even when I was a young churchgoer, it bothered me that the full-time pastor was wealthy. Now this guy's income is based entirely on donations - and he's totally showing up his f'n flock. I'd mention it to friends, and they'd be so quick to defend him. People are so willfully deluded.

When a twelve year-old kid thinks maybe your Rolex and Benz are not quite What Jesus Would have Done, might wanna reconsider your lifestyle.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: SF1900 on June 14, 2015, 07:19:20 PM
Even when I was a young churchgoer, it bothered me that the full-time pastor was wealthy. Now this guy's income is based entirely on donations - and he's totally showing up his f'n flock. I'd mention it to friends, and they'd be so quick to defend him. People are so willfully deluded.

When a twelve year-old kid thinks maybe your Rolex and Benz are not quite What Jesus Would have Done, might wanna reconsider your lifestyle.

Joels networth is currently estimated to be at 56 million dollars.

And, yes, religious fools will defend him. As I have always said, it poisons your mind.

Jesus would look pretty badass rocking a rolex and driving around in a benz.  :D :D
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: The Ugly on June 14, 2015, 07:21:15 PM
Joels networth is currently estimated to be at 56 million dollars.

And, yes, religious fools will defend him. As I have always said, it poisons your mind.

Jesus would look pretty badass rocking a rolex and driving around in a benz.  :D :D

WHAT FUCKING THEORY?!
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: calfzilla on June 14, 2015, 07:28:17 PM
Shove it up your ass.

That's just the devil inside you talking. Remember Jesus loves you regardless.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: SF1900 on June 14, 2015, 07:29:59 PM
WHAT FUCKING THEORY?!

 ??? ??? ???
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: The Ugly on June 14, 2015, 07:33:13 PM
??? ??? ???

(Inside Basile joke. Close to the vest, yeah.)
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: SF1900 on June 14, 2015, 07:34:37 PM
(Inside Basile joke. Close to the vest, yeah.)

I had a feeling ;)
Basile is an atheist, so it appears that he has some shred of common sense. :D :D
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: The Ugly on June 14, 2015, 07:44:49 PM
I had a feeling ;)
Basile is an atheist, so it appears that he has some shred of common sense. :D :D

Afraid the narcissist part trumps his atheism, though. He worships himself, which puts him back in the sycophant camp.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Nomad on June 14, 2015, 11:01:37 PM
(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/39/01/4d/39014d34409d2c5be02c769f46618ff4.jpg)

(http://s18.postimg.org/n44rrkxjd/11083842_979974778701693_941770958563495957_n.jpg)

Thats a play for TV Christian or basically a fake more or less. Warren Buffet is probably more Godly then this guy but what do I know.

About as real Oprah show interviews or Goodrums business turning a profit.

Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: hardgainerj on June 14, 2015, 11:05:48 PM
this is the only congregation that matters you heathens

Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: syntaxmachine on June 15, 2015, 04:47:02 AM
I'm among those who pay higher rates on personal income and investment income now than I did years ago. And I own a small business and also have a trust to shield myself from things like lawsuits, as do most of the clients I work for. Trusts and corps are also taxed highly in the US, and I'm often taxed more than once on some of the same money.

Yes, tax rates have inched up toward the historical mean in most categories.  And most economists seem to agree that the corporate tax needs serious reforn.

Nonetheless, it is useful to put tax rates into historical perspective lest we make incorrect inferences about the magnitude of the tax burden we face (viz., that it is "high" and ever-increasing).
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Howard on June 15, 2015, 06:54:56 AM
I view most old people as half retarded bad drivers.  They were a generation who was taught to just listen and not question.  With the Internet and many free thinkers, religion is on a decline.  Back in the day, few would question things.  Imagine what the church would have to lose if God was someday disproved by science.  I guess a few billion dollars is all.
At one time I believed in God, then I grew up and realized it was just straight bullshit.  How adults believe in this is mind blowing....uhhh, but it's in the book.  Yikes.

Hmmm, so the old folks generation that endured the great depression , charged Omaha beach, developed the 1st atomic bomb and then put a man on the moon are "half retards"?

Ok, I'm against the mind numbing , brain washing of organized religion.
BUT, the modern evangelical Christian movement is pretty pathetic.

I live in North Ga. and you can't throw a rock without hitting some church LOL.
Plenty of younger folks attend and support mega churches.
My wife is friends with 2 younger woman, that are devoted and tithe fully to their local mega church.
One is the CPA, the other a dental hygienist , so they aren't stupid or uneducated.

Religion is a cultural  thing you are immersed in from birth.
I read, researched and broke away from Christian doctrine years ago.
Today, I simply believe in GOD without being part of any organized faith.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Howard on June 15, 2015, 06:59:11 AM
Church membership is down, but it's not just going to dry up.

Religion is indoctrination. Parents believe, which makes kids believe. Every now and again as the child grows up, they see things differently and they move beyond it.

Being a decent person to those around you isn't something that only religious people get to claim.


x2!  Good post!
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Howard on June 15, 2015, 07:06:20 AM
Just no end to religious retardation.

Since you mentioned Osteen, how come Christians haven't condemned him yet for being a fag?

LOL, I always suspected ol' Joel was a total closet case .
But, his wife is smokin' hot so wtf. it's a good front for PR.


The religious love that tax exempt status.
Hmmm, I'll never understand how these mega church preachers can keep millions tax free? wtf?
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: SF1900 on June 15, 2015, 07:33:52 AM
LOL, I always suspected ol' Joel was a total closet case .
But, his wife is smokin' hot so wtf. it's a good front for PR.


The religious love that tax exempt status.
Hmmm, I'll never understand how these mega church preachers can keep millions tax free? wtf?

If my taxes pay for firefighters and police officers, then why does the church have equal rights to these? The church is not paying for these services, so why should they get them? If a church is on fire, let them pray the fire away. Why should they be able to utilize the fire department if they are not paying their salary via taxes?

You would think religions would want to pay taxes. You know, to help with important things like education, roads, bridges, etc, all of which makes life sustainable. They care about life so much, yet they don't pay taxes which can help sustain and build cities. A bunch of hypocrites.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Howard on June 15, 2015, 08:37:20 AM
If my taxes pay for firefighters and police officers, then why does the church have equal rights to these? The church is not paying for these services, so why should they get them? If a church is on fire, let them pray the fire away. Why should they be able to utilize the fire department if they are not paying their salary via taxes?

You would think religions would want to pay taxes. You know, to help with important things like education, roads, bridges, etc, all of which makes life sustainable. They care about life so much, yet they don't pay taxes which can help sustain and build cities. A bunch of hypocrites.

100% agree on your logic and side of this tax free topic.

But, I think we'd also agree  for hotty Victoria Olsteen to be tax exempt when performing "lap dances for Jesus" as a church fund raiser.
I know I'd be singin' " He has risen"  :D
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Skylge on June 15, 2015, 10:19:49 AM
God created the universe, but could not create a 100 dollar bill.....go figure. Religions always need money!
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Natural Man on June 15, 2015, 10:46:35 AM
Hmmm, so the old folks generation that endured the great depression , charged Omaha beach, developed the 1st atomic bomb and then put a man on the moon are "half retards"?

Ok, I'm against the mind numbing , brain washing of organized religion.
BUT, the modern evangelical Christian movement is pretty pathetic.

I live in North Ga. and you can't throw a rock without hitting some church LOL.
Plenty of younger folks attend and support mega churches.
My wife is friends with 2 younger woman, that are devoted and tithe fully to their local mega church.
One is the CPA, the other a dental hygienist , so they aren't stupid or uneducated.

Religion is a cultural  thing you are immersed in from birth.
I read, researched and broke away from Christian doctrine years ago.
Today, I simply believe in GOD without being part of any organized faith.

Believing in competition and accomplishment , being driven has nothing to do with a god. The people you re talking about were pretty much elitists who wanted to destroy everything and everyone that was different, and were very efficient at doing so. Did they believe in god? no, they believed in competition, the law of nature, the strongest, fittest, survives. Good values and morals in stable rich families creates strong individuals who dominate weaker, less fortunate individuals coming from shittier families. No need of a god to explain any of it, it s just nature. The strongest, fittest, luckiest dominate the weak.

German Nazis were somewhat as driven and racist as white anglo saxons from north america or russians, they just lost because of bad luck, bad strategy from their leader. They could have won had hitler chosen a different strategy. My point is there is no need for a god to raise driven, valuable strong individuals who will become models for other less fortunate. Proof is that every culture, ethnicity , religion,  produces elites, cream of the crop individuals who will reign on the weakest ones. It s a natural animal process, in all other animal species you have stronger, smarter, faster, fittest individuals, males and females who reign on the weaker ones. And they dont have any "gods".
All gods created by men are always some kind of super natural almighty ...men or women , some kind of perfect role models. It is a construct of the human brain.We adore the best , healthiest smartest looking rare individuals because they simply represent maximum chances of survival.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: Croatch on June 15, 2015, 11:03:39 PM
Hmmm, so the old folks generation that endured the great depression , charged Omaha beach, developed the 1st atomic bomb and then put a man on the moon are "half retards"?

Ok, I'm against the mind numbing , brain washing of organized religion.
BUT, the modern evangelical Christian movement is pretty pathetic.

I live in North Ga. and you can't throw a rock without hitting some church LOL.
Plenty of younger folks attend and support mega churches.
My wife is friends with 2 younger woman, that are devoted and tithe fully to their local mega church.
One is the CPA, the other a dental hygienist , so they aren't stupid or uneducated.

Religion is a cultural  thing you are immersed in from birth.
I read, researched and broke away from Christian doctrine years ago.
Today, I simply believe in GOD without being part of any organized faith.
When an eductated intelligent person believes in imaginary men, it makes it even worse.  Having a 150 iq and throwing logic away is awful.
You can point to quite a few stories in the bible that are laughable.  If the stories aren't meant to be literal, then you can't take the book as truth.  I used to like the Cat in the Hat, then one day my dad told me it was made up.  Turning 21 wasn't easy.
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: hardgainerj on June 15, 2015, 11:23:11 PM
crazy looking bitch

(http://cdn.charismanews.com/images/stories/2014/us/Victoria-Osteen.jpg)
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: The Ugly on June 15, 2015, 11:29:59 PM
crazy looking bitch

(http://cdn.charismanews.com/images/stories/2014/us/Victoria-Osteen.jpg)

Magic?
Title: Re: If you currently donate to churches....please...
Post by: 2Thick on June 17, 2015, 12:18:15 PM
Yes, tax rates have inched up toward the historical mean in most categories.  And most economists seem to agree that the corporate tax needs serious reforn.

Nonetheless, it is useful to put tax rates into historical perspective lest we make incorrect inferences about the magnitude of the tax burden we face (viz., that it is "high" and ever-increasing).

I'm not incorrect, and I'm not one of those people who thinks we should be at 90%. I personally know people who are lucky to take home 37% of what they earn.

This administration has found many clever ways around things, such as the administrative branch of government, the "pen and phone", the use of executive "memos" rather than "executive orders" in some cases, etc.

Obamacare, Dodd-Frank, Net Neutrality, environmental regs, future gas and sales taxes, etc, etc - these things have and will result in more costs to some, most, or all of us and put more of our money in the hands of politicians. I'm sure they absolutely won't cut income taxes when they implement carbon and other additional taxes. They'll just pile them on.

I realize that taxes are a necessary evil, but more taxes do not lead to the overall improvements politicians promise. Most tax dollars are wasted via corruption, crony capitalism, etc. There's no sense in paying $5k to your buddy for each hammer you buy, $1 mil or more for each port-a-potty, or $6 billion for a broken website that private sector experts say they can build better for less than one million. And there's certainly no sense in using that same contractor again for "improvements" to IRS computers.  ::)