Jason Howard Green

Jason Howard Green

Friday, February 14, 2014

REAL DRAMA FOR REAL PREACHERS

Yes Lord, please check out this article discussing the Real Preachers of L.A.: http://pimppreacher.com/post/76630100154/real-preachers-of-la-just-discovered-that-the-irs-was

So apparently there are pending lawsuits that could cause these preachers that live such an extravagant and luxurious life to lose their tax exempt status.  Can I just say this - WOW!!!  These preachers decided it would be a good idea to go on TV and floss their millions, showoff their fabulous homes, drive their expensive cars, and wear their designer clothes and they didn't have the foresight to see that the IRS may be paying attention.

And since the IRS (and many others) were paying attention, there may be some consequences to this show.  For years, preachers have been able to use their religious affiliation to claim tax exempt status.  When we see preachers living lifestyles as the ones showcased on Real Preachers of L.A., it causes us to wonder.  Why have we allowed this to go on for so long?  What is the point of giving these allowances when the only benefit it gives the clergy is a faster trek to a the life of rich and famous?  Now I'm wondering if the era of ballin' Baptists may be coming to an end?

What I'm really wondering is, how many poor people are going to come running forth claiming that these men deserve the millions they are making off their flocks.  People who can't afford to pay their rent will give all of their money to the pastor with a smile and then their left wondering how they are going to keep the lights on.

Now don't get it twisted, I know there is value in the church.  I'm a product of the church.  I grew up in Alabama, the heart of the bible belt.  I learned some very valuable lessons in that church that have carried with me well into my adult life.  But I have seen way too many people give beyond their means in an effort to keep their pastor living extravagantly.  And I've always took issue with this.  

Churches have evolved into big businesses and they need to be treated as such.  I am taxed on my income and they should be taxed on theirs.  I'm just saying . . . 

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