Mr. Tate goes to Washington

Mr. Tate goes to Washington

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Tuesday, September 8. 2009

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Dr. Benny Tate, Senior Pastor of Rock Springs Church, will serve as Guest Chaplain for the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday September 9.

If you would like to see him open the session with prayer at 10:00 am, be sure to tune in for the live broadcast on C-SPAN.

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#1 Andy on 09/08/09 at 01:51 PM

I used have respect for Benny back when he was "a simple country preacher from Tenneessee" as he used to say. But he's long since outgrown the trappings of a 'simple preacher'. I just don't see many simple preachers boasting and calling themselves 'Doctor' or dabbling so deeply into politics. I used to like him alot but he lost my respect many years ago when, one Sunday morning, his sermon was titled and was totally about "What we've accomplished since I'VE been the pastor at Rock Springs". I just didn't think that kind of bragging was very humble or Christ like. I'm sorry that he's taken what was a wonderful, traditional country church and turned it into such a spectacle.
This is just my personal opinion and if it offends anyone I apologize. That's just the way I feel.

#1.1 Jerry Griffin on 09/09/09 at 10:49 AM

Andy,
I read your comment this morning concerning Benny Tate and what he has done at Rock Springs Church. I want you to know that you did not offend me in any way. I believe everyone has a right to their opinion, but I am truly sorry you feel the way you do. I have been a member of Rock Springs for almost 4 years now. Benny Tate is still a "simple country preacher from Tennessee" trying to acomplish great things for a Great God! Through the leadership skills God has given him, Rock Springs Church has grown tremendously. The church is a true "spectacle" of what God can do if you allow him to move! Benny Tate has never let his "simpleness" keep him from stepping out on faith and watching God move, work, and provide for the church. I have never heard Benny boast or call himself a doctor of anything from the pulpit or in public. I am sure he worked very hard for each degree that he has earned and a title should not be catagorized "inappropriate". Benny Tate is not a perfect man nor is anyone else at Rock Springs Church. If I were to think of him as perfect; then I would have just placed him on a pedestal and made him my god. We "all" are imperfect people trying to overcome our imperfections through the saving grace of Jesus Christ.
I believe everyone should "dabble" deeply in politics. If we did not, we would have no idea or understanding of what our elected officials are doing for our country. Hosea 4:6 states "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge". We definitely need to know what is happening!
The title of the sermon clearly states "What we've accomplished"; that is plural. I truly feel that title has been taken out of context and blown up to be something it is not.
Andy, you said in closing that if you offended anyone, you apologized. That is like saying it's okay to intentionally aim and shoot an arrow at someones heart and then state publicly that you did not mean to hurt anyone. I am not speaking on behalf of Benny Tate, but it is my belief that he will not take your opinion as offensive, but will pray you have a change of heart.

Respectfully,
Jerry Griffin

#2 blue on 09/08/09 at 03:26 PM

Can somebody explain to me why churches don't have to pay taxes? I'm not trying to start an argument, I'm just curious.

#2.1 True Blue on 09/09/09 at 08:06 AM

Churches are non-profit entities. By law they are exempt from taxes just like other non profit organizations including things like rotary clubs, lodges, American Heart Association, etc.

#2.1.1 Anonymous on 09/09/09 at 02:09 PM

If this is true shouldn't the churches stay out of politics. If you have a political view on things and express it through your organization then they should pay taxes. Churches are businesses that make money and pay good saleries while pushing there views on everyone. So why don't they pay taxes?

#2.1.1.1 Anonymous on 09/09/09 at 06:47 PM

so you are saying that if you are active or have an opinion on political things then you should pay taxes?
That is way out in left field. Really!

How is a Church a business that makes money. People pay tithes as commanded in the Bible. That is a donation. They arent offering a service for money.

How do Churches push their views on EVERYONE. This country started with a base of Christianity and has continued. Do you spend money even though it says "in God we trust" on it. Boycott that. What about raising your hand in court dating back no telling how many years.
I dont understand where the majority of people strayed off from religion or a realationship with God. They call on Him when they are in trouble. (lots of)People that are on their death bed would love the pastors to pray for them and give them encouraging words to help the situation but live like the devil their whole life.
What has the Church done to you?

#2.1.1.2 Solo on 09/10/09 at 09:58 AM

Non profit organizations are one of the best non kept secrets in the US. Non profit is hardly the term that should be used because even though the organization does not show a profit it does pay out lucrative (very profitable)salaries to its employees and executives. Mega churches are but one example of abuse of the non profit organizations. These country clubs for the masses kind of churches have enormous budgets and when they compete with non religious bussiness they should pay taxes. I've always thought that it would be interesting to see how the devout and ordained would fare if their tax advantages were removed.

#2.1.1.2.1 Anonymous on 09/10/09 at 11:51 AM

Some of that just flew over my head.

How would they "compete" with non religious groups or a business. As for my Church, the preacher gets a salary, the pianist, and maybe another person or two. This equals gas money though.(except for the pastor. He is full time and gets paid for it) No big salaries for the youth director or anything like that. Just chump change if you want to call it.

As far as their budget. You collect money over periods of time and the money is used for the glory of God. (maybe not with all churches might I add).
Helping families that dont have anything for Christmas, thanksgiving, lost home due to flood/fire, Jobless, etc.
Sending flowers to the sick or hospitalized. Buying things for the Church that is needed here and there.

There is lots of things that goes on that people dont realize that arent involved in church or even behind the scenes.

#3 Anonymous on 09/08/09 at 03:34 PM

I've known Benny Tate 18 years,
he is still just as humble and sweet as he was back then, he is a wonderful pastor, he is a sold out man of God ! We are so blessed to have him at Rock springs. God is using him in a mighty way, I love you, brother Benny !

#4 Donna Brown on 09/08/09 at 03:49 PM

Benny Tate is a sweet, humble , man of God.
We are so blessed to have him at Rock Springs.
I'm so proud of him, for what all he has done for our church, he has touched so many lives.
He is sold out to God !
And God has really used him.
I love you brother Benny.
Donna Brown

#5 Anonymous on 09/08/09 at 04:13 PM

Benny Tate is my pastor and I am so proud of him. He is a great man with a very humble spirit. Pastor Benny is not ashamed to stand up for what is right and will always express his beliefs no matter what. I am thankful my children go to school where they have this wonderful, Godly man as a leader. Thank you Pastor Benny for all you do and for all you stand for!

#6 Anonymous on 09/09/09 at 08:06 AM

I have been going to RSC for a very long time now and I have never heard Benny title one of his messages like that. Are you kidding me?? Benny always focuses his attention on reaching souls for Jesus Christ and never on himself. I don't ever hear Benny call himself "Doctor Tate" either. He is known as Pastor Benny or Brother Benny. SO, Andy, perhaps you had a chip on your shoulder when you came to RSC and just maybe you need to focus on the important things.

#7 Tom on 09/09/09 at 02:24 PM

People should ask more questions, there's much more there than it seems.

#8 Anonymous on 09/09/09 at 06:12 PM

I enjoy listening to Benny Tate on the way to my home church on sunday mornings. I get a big smile on my face when he is preaching and he sounds all happy then all of a sudden it sounds like he is crying. Then happy and laughing again. I have never attended RSC but i feel quite sure in my heart that Mr Tate is a man of God and has something special in him. I encourage everyone to find a Church somewhere or just float around.

#9 Anonymous on 09/09/09 at 06:57 PM

I do believe alot of bad will come out of Rock Springs before it is all over with....Alot of questions need to be asked...Like where is all the money comming from????????? I still believe there is something going on and will never believe any differnt....A church that gets that big real fast is always hidding something...Look at all the others that got big over night and what happened to them...I agree with #7 alot there is muc much more there than everyone knows.

#9.1 Anonymous on 09/10/09 at 01:44 PM

You are soooo right. There is much more than you know. For example, right now why don't you drive to the church and look at how full the parking lot is of people who are standing in line to get medical attention at NO COST! And as you are leaving stop by the house Potter's House and ask these young ladies where they would be without Rock Springs Church. You see, NONE of this would happen if it were not for the Lord first of all and also if it were not for the heart of Benny Tate! Bro. Benny has been here for 20 years, so this church did not grow overnight as you said. He has given his life to this church and this community is reaping the benefits from it! So again, you are right.THERE IS SOMETHING going on and I am honored to be a part of it and so are the other 5000 members of this church! Would you be happier if there is nothing going on? If so, then stay where you are at. You would be miserable here!

#10 Elizabeth English on 09/09/09 at 11:22 PM

I believe if you are always looking for bad or negative things, then that is all you will find! It comes from God's people who tithe faithfully! The focus should not be on Benny Tate, or how big the church is, or how much money it has...the primary goal is to reach men, women, boys, and girls, for Jesus Christ! God should recieve all the Glory for everything that happens at Rock Springs and Benny Tate and his staff do just that. Judgement should not be placed on anyone or any church, for we all serve an audiance of one and Jesus is the only Judge! Next time be sure to look for positive and good things at Rock Springs, and I can assure you that is what you will find!

In His Love,

Elizabeth English

#11 Enoc Siuol on 09/10/09 at 06:27 AM

When I moved to Lamar County and started to look into the religious community one of my efforts brought me to RSC. The people were wonderful; the community out reach was amazing, the facility was spacious and very impressive and the available programs were endless. The congregants were passionate about what they believe, as they should be, and their expressions of love were genuine, sincere, as well as, abundant. The reasons why this house of worship became the county’s premier mega-church were self evident.
At the same time, there was something missing that was vital which I could not yet identify. After several more visits and Dr. Tate’s sermons I recognized what it was. The belief system proclaimed was for the mainstream and there was no room for a theological cutting edge approach. This explains the 4000 members. I have always found that if I am in agreement with the majority, theologically or politically it’s time to rethink my position. My desire was not to find a fringe group but one what would allow for a more present day inclusive ideology. I did find it and I believe it is still the best kept secret in Barnesville.

#11.1 Solo on 09/10/09 at 09:42 AM

So Enoc are you going to keep us in the dark? There's a group in Barnesville that promotes a "present day inclusive ideology"? I am not being sarcastic-would like to know about this group.

#11.1.1 Anonymous on 09/10/09 at 11:57 AM

There is no room for moderday theology in the church IMO. You read from the Bible and teach from it and that is it. You can use modern day things to make examples but to alter the Bible to fit the way professors at colleges are thinking or putting stuff in our childrens head when they go off is "from the devil". You preach what is says and explain, thats it. Dont modify.

#12 Jo Ann Beverly on 09/10/09 at 07:40 AM

Sounds as though you have a chip on your shoulder.what exactly are you looking for in a Churchhome and pastor?Are you trying to glorify yourself?Or;are you trying to be seen and heard.Pastor Benny is a wonderful young man and Pastor.There are leaders in this world;and he is one of the positive ones.Pastor Benny has never tried to teach,lead or cram politics,prejudices,or in my opinion anything negative dow any ones throat.He is positive,happy and no nonense.Maybe you should come back sit down with him and tel us what you are really mad about.Obviously;something about the Church and Brother Bennie has angered you. I for one/along with my husband praise GOD daily for this organization and Pastor Bennie,religion is like clothes;"one size does NOT fit all"

#12.1 Enoc Siuol on 09/10/09 at 09:28 AM

Geesh….Ms. Beverly….I just finished telling everybody how wonderful RSC is so where’s the chip or anger? It’s fantastic that you found what works and I’m happy for you. I agree one size doesn’t fit all and it just took a little longer to find my size.
“Whoever is not against us is for us” Jesus (Mark 9:4)

#12.1.1 Solo on 09/10/09 at 02:06 PM

So Enoc, if you're not going to answer my question(11.1), how about a hint. Are you talking about a church, a civic organization, a club, a private group, other?

#12.1.1.1 Enoc Siuol on 09/11/09 at 06:42 AM

It goes without saying “freedom is a matter of choices” and to have a selection of ways to express one’s individual relationship to spirit whether it is traditional or contemporary appears to be the most effective approach. It has been my experience the difference between to two choices is not that one is better than the other but in what one sees as the actual arbitrator of theological truth. Many times the traditional choice believes it to be scripture and that it is always to be taken literal. The contemporary alternative leans toward the human heart as the true arbitrator and without it scripture many times can be misleading and could install boundaries. I believe the answer is hidden somewhere in between. At times, to be able to challenge or question even that which is deemed to be scarcest is the only way to move beyond our reach. To have the lack of restriction to dare take issue is an environment many mainstream churches do not provide. The contemporary service at the United Methodist Church in Barnesville provides such freedom.

#12.1.1.1.1 Enoc Siuol on 09/11/09 at 07:48 AM

sacred...not scarcest...darn spellcheck.
My apologies,
Enoc

#12.1.1.1.2 Solo on 09/11/09 at 07:59 AM

Thanks for your reply. Your approach reminds me of the Unitarian Universalist one that encourages each individual to seek his own path to understanding the relationship to the creator. Wish that more people could understand that "freedom is a matter of choice" and that those who seek to impose their beliefs on us thru government would give it a rest.

#12.1.1.1.2.1 Enoc Siuol on 09/11/09 at 08:35 AM

It's amazing how UUs can seek each other out just by the language used and the simple points of view.

#13 Andy on 09/10/09 at 10:48 AM

Well I had a lengthy explanation for many of you but apparently the administrator didn't like it because it wouldn't post. So in the short - I'm not angry at RSC or anyone there. I just don't like what the church I grew up in has become. Too much flash and commercialism. It apperars to be as one blogger put it; "The Premier Chuch in Barnesville." I know several people who go there (fine upstanding christians who get their picture in the paper but curse like a sailor at work)and it appears to be more of the place to be seen than anything else. It's just not right.

#13.1 Anonymous on 09/10/09 at 02:03 PM

You have to work out your own salvation. You cant worry about what other people cuss about or do. If the person is a leader in the Church then go to Brother Tate and inform him of the situation. Im not a member of the church nor have i ever attended. Im just saying......

People struggle with different things. Would you be discouraged if there was a deacon that smoked. True that isnt setting a good exmple for the non believers because everyone has this concept that Christians are supposed to be perfect. That is the furthest thing from the truth. Everyone struggles and falls short. If i knew one of the deacons cussed people out or was at the bar on friday nights i would confront the leader and tell him that the issue needs to be addressed and the person needs to step down.

#14 Anonymous on 09/10/09 at 12:00 PM

Some people go to Church to hear what they want to hear and the pastor passifies them instead of telling them what they NEED to hear. I like for my toes to get stepped on. That makes me strive to be a better person and realize that i may just be doing something not quite right in Gods eyes.

#15 price on 09/10/09 at 01:21 PM

I think Brother Benny is a wonderful man of God. He ministered to me and was a great help when I was at my lowest in life, He did not judge me but told me about the love of God. Thank you Brother Benny for your wonderful work that you are doing at Rock Springs Chruch. I hope and pray it grows to Ten thousand people, I pray that through you and your faithfulness to Christ Barnesville is reached and all that surround it.

#16 Anonymous on 09/10/09 at 02:31 PM

I do not go to Rock Springs but that is because I attend a full gospel Church that preaches the Full Gospel and doesn't pick and choose what to beleive like many denomanations do. However With that said, I do listen to Pastor Tate on my way to Sunday School and I also attended service at camp meeting in Indian Springs Summer of 08. He is definintly on Fire! If I didn't know better I would think he is a Full Gospel Preacher. Keep going the way you are Bro. Benny and it wont be called a Methodist Church anymore! He calls black black and white white no in between. ( SOME PEOPLE DON'T LIKE THAT) Soon as you start preaching about how God will fill you with the Holy Ghost if you seek him your church liable to increase to 8,000! Praise be to god that we have Pastors that preach the word!

#17 JimOfLoui@aol.com on 09/14/09 at 08:07 PM

Where do non Christians get the notion---that all Christians should be poverty stricken ?
That idea is absurd, to the unmost
Also----God--Christ, can not be shoved down ANYONES throat. You must CHOOSE to believe, or, too not believe. The SHOVING---is being done by the Non-Believers---to remove God from our Public Life, even though, from the very conception of this Nation----God has been an important part of our lives. THINK.

#17.1 solo on 09/17/09 at 04:53 PM

A camel will pass through the eye of a needle sooner than a rich man will get into heaven.

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