Weeks in the pulpit today...blamed the Devil

[Southernbella.]

Bishop accused in beating blames Satan for his woes

By S.A. REID
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 08/27/07

Global Destiny Ministries members on Sunday circled their spiritual wagons around their pastor, Bishop Thomas Weeks III, now charged with beating his estranged wife, the nationally known evangelist Juanita Bynum.
Most congregants approached for interviews after Sunday's 8 a.m. service declined to comment on the marital problems of Weeks, 40, and Bynum, 48.




Elissa Eubanks/AJC
(ENLARGE)
Members of Global Destiny Church in Duluth urged people to cautious about taking sides in the dispute between Bishop Thomas Weeks III and his wife, Juanita Bynum.

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• More Gwinnett news

Those who did urged caution in taking sides in the issue and passing judgment on two people they consider spiritual giants, but also human.

"There are three sides to every story," said Clarkston's Shannon Mayers, a frequent visitor. "Nobody has the right to judge anybody. God is in the midst of that and will work it out."

Member Maurice Adams, 26, of Atlanta said he was disappointed to hear the news but still considers Weeks his bishop.

"We all make mistakes. He deserves another opportunity," Adams said. "I'm hurt, but I do respect him for being man enough to show his face today."

Weeks took the pulpit two days after his surrender to authorities in connection with the alleged attack on Bynum. His remarks included appreciation for the prayers and support that he said have come in for him and his wife and thanks to those in attendance in spite of the controversy.

Weeks sparked thunderous applause and cheers when he asked members to tell those seated next to them: "We've got certain things going on right now, but I refuse to stop coming to the house God built."

Weeks, wearing a dark suit and his customary bow tie, blamed the devil for the accusation that has him facing two felony charges. He didn't, however, offer any specifics before introducing a guest minister who preached in his stead, then exiting the room.

The bishop is charged with aggravated assault for allegedly choking, kicking and hitting Bynum on Tuesday night in a parking lot at the Renaissance Concourse Hotel and with making terroristic threats to kill her. Both are felonies.

After turning himself in, he spent six hours in the Fulton County Jail before being released on $40,000 bond Friday.

The couple reportedly met at the Renaissance to talk about reconciliation after having been separated for several months.

Bynum, known for her fiery sermons that empower women, has been in seclusion since the attack and was not present at Sunday's 8 a.m. service.

Global Destiny is a ministry the couple co-founded and pastor. In addition to Duluth, other church locations are in Los Angeles, Washington and London.

The charges are only the latest of Weeks' troubles.

Authorities went to his Duluth home in June to serve an eviction notice.
Six months earlier, a former employee complained to police that Weeks got physical with her in escorting her from the church property.

Weeks is due in Fulton County Superior Court on Sept. 7.

http://www.ajc.com/gwinnett/content.../bynum_0827.html?cxntlid=homepage_tab_newstab

 

[StrawberryQueen]

If you look for the devil, you will find him. erplexed

 

[star]

It don't make sense. He basically saying he is controlled by the devil and not God. Big contridiction for a Christian(depending on the level). Just say your old nature came and YOU made a mistake.

 

[facets]

The devil made him kick the crap out of his wife?

It would have been better if he just hadn't said anything.

ITA.

nono:

 

[cocoberry10]

I can't even comment on this stuff anymore with these ministers. I'm just gonna let God (you know, big Jeezy) handle this. I mean no one is perfect, but I'm just like emotionless with how some of these ministers are handling controversy. And they actually wonder why people don't want to be Christians anymore??? And it's not God's fault. We are humans with the ability to make our own decisions.

 

[michc]

I mean no one is perfect, but I'm just like emotionless with how some of these ministers are handling controversy. And they actually wonder why people don't want to be Christians anymore??? And it's not God's fault. We are humans with the ability to make our own decisions.

You took the words right out of my mouth.

 

[Honey6928215]

What a cop out! He should just come out and say that he beat her down.

 

[Crackers Phinn]

Just realize I posted in the Christianity forum.
<edited>

What a cop out! He should just come out and say that he beat her down.

Naw, that brotha got to go to court. He is building his 'temporary insanity' case by throwing that devil line out there.

 

[PaperClip]

I can't even comment on this stuff anymore with these ministers. I'm just gonna let God (you know, big Jeezy) handle this. I mean no one is perfect, but I'm just like emotionless with how some of these ministers are handling controversy. And they actually wonder why people don't want to be Christians anymore??? And it's not God's fault. We are humans with the ability to make our own decisions.

No you didn't say "big Jeezy!" Wowowwww!!!!!

I'd like to offer that we must be careful about what we say in this situation, particularly on a spiritual level.... We would not want our words to come back and bite us if (God forbid) we were to execute poor judgement. I heard somebody say something like depending on the circumstances, we are ONE BAD DECISION AWAY FROM JAIL....

And even though I shouldn't have to say this, I'll say it anyway: my post here by NO MEANS serves as justification for this person's actions or explanation for his actions. He is telling the truth that it was the devil that influenced his actions.

I concur w/what Cocoberry says here about how such situations do not draw people to the Lord and at the same time, turn people away from the Lord.... It's not God's fault.... If anything, hopefully these situations will cause us to look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).

 

[alexstin]

He really needs to go sit down somewhere. That comment......

 

[dlewis]

He really needs to go sit down somewhere. That comment......

ITA.............

 

[Honey6928215]

Besides, since he want to blame the devil for his actions then he should ask the devil to pay his legal fees instead of the congregation. That man has really lost his marbles.

 

[cocoberry10]

No you didn't say "big Jeezy!" Wowowwww!!!!!

I'd like to offer that we must be careful about what we say in this situation, particularly on a spiritual level.... We would not want our words to come back and bite us if (God forbid) we were to execute poor judgement. I heard somebody say something like depending on the circumstances, we are ONE BAD DECISION AWAY FROM JAIL....

And even though I shouldn't have to say this, I'll say it anyway: my post here by NO MEANS serves as justification for this person's actions or explanation for his actions. He is telling the truth that it was the devil that influenced his actions.

I concur w/what Cocoberry says here about how such situations do not draw people to the Lord and at the same time, turn people away from the Lord.... It's not God's fault.... If anything, hopefully these situations will cause us to look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).

DISCLAIMER: I don’t mean this to come across as argumentative, so don’t take offense to my post! However, in NO WAY, SHAPE, or FORM am I judging this man, that’s why I specifically said “I can't even comment on this stuff anymore with these ministers” and “no one is perfect,” because I recognize that we all struggle and “fall short of the glory!” So, absolutely I realize that this man made a bad decision, and I am the first to tell you that I make bad decisions too! However, when we fall short, we have a responsibility to own up to these shortcomings and not “blame” the devil. Yes, the devil tempts and influences us, but at the end of the day WE MAKE THE FINAL DECISION! Is it the devil’s fault that Adam and Eve ate the fruit? Heck no, IMO! Although he “seduced” them into making that decision, ultimately it was their choice. And I feel that is the way it is today with us!

ETA: And as far as my reference (calling him Big Jeezy), I mean no disrespect to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, but I am going to call him. Because in times of wellness or trouble, that’s what God wants us to do (Call Him!)

 

[Crackers Phinn]

Just realize I posted in the Christianity forum.
<edited>

However, in NO WAY, SHAPE, or FORM am I judging this man

I am absolutely judging this man.

1. There is at least one witness that had to pull him off his wife.
2. There are pics of his battered wife.
3. The devil made him do is admissible in the court of JCoily as "I done this and a couple other things I haven't got caught doing"

He's just very fortunate that I am not the jury.

 

[PaperClip]

DISCLAIMER: I don’t mean this to come across as argumentative, so don’t take offense to my post! However, in NO WAY, SHAPE, or FORM am I judging this man, that’s why I specifically said “I can't even comment on this stuff anymore with these ministers” and “no one is perfect,” because I recognize that we all struggle and “fall short of the glory!” So, absolutely I realize that this man made a bad decision, and I am the first to tell you that I make bad decisions too! However, when we fall short, we have a responsibility to own up to these shortcomings and not “blame” the devil. Yes, the devil tempts and influences us, but at the end of the day WE MAKE THE FINAL DECISION! Is it the devil’s fault that Adam and Eve ate the fruit? Heck no, IMO! Although he “seduced” them into making that decision, ultimately it was their choice. And I feel that is the way it is today with us!

ETA: And as far as my reference (calling him Big Jeezy), I mean no disrespect to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, but I am going to call him. Because in times of wellness or trouble, that’s what God wants us to do (Call Him!)

Whoa, coco!!!We are on the SAME PAGE, HONEY!!!!! Same page!

And the Big Jeezy, comment was cute and funny to me...esp. as it reflects the hip-hop pop culture flavor....

And trust, what I said is TOTALLY DOUBLE-EDGED... with the majority of the edges pointed AT MYSELF(!) for the very reason you said: we are responsible for my own choices. So I'm doing my best to guard my mouth for myself and also to represent the Lord accurately and to have a word in season for those where this situation is making them lose faith in the Lord and about the church/Body of Christ.

 

[cocoberry10]

Whoa, coco!!!We are on the SAME PAGE, HONEY!!!!! Same page!

And the Big Jeezy, comment was cute and funny to me...esp. as it reflects the hip-hop pop culture flavor....

And trust, what I said is TOTALLY DOUBLE-EDGED... with the majority of the edges pointed AT MYSELF(!) for the very reason you said: we are responsible for my own choices. So I'm doing my best to guard my mouth for myself and also to represent the Lord accurately and to have a word in season for those where this situation is making them lose faith in the Lord and about the church/Body of Christ.

Okay, whoo RR. I was getting a little scared! We usually see things very much the same! You know I love the Lord and I know you do too!

 

[Shimmie]

Okay, whoo RR. I was getting a little scared! We usually see things very much the same! You know I love the Lord and I know you do too!

And you also love each other Pure sisters in 'hair' and in Heaven.

​

Big Jeezy...I had to laugh at that myself...

I'm going to start a 'fund' for you Coco...
in case you need a lawyer for using that term
​

 

[Poohbear]

DISCLAIMER: I don’t mean this to come across as argumentative, so don’t take offense to my post! However, in NO WAY, SHAPE, or FORM am I judging this man, that’s why I specifically said “I can't even comment on this stuff anymore with these ministers” and “no one is perfect,” because I recognize that we all struggle and “fall short of the glory!” So, absolutely I realize that this man made a bad decision, and I am the first to tell you that I make bad decisions too! However, when we fall short, we have a responsibility to own up to these shortcomings and not “blame” the devil. Yes, the devil tempts and influences us, but at the end of the day WE MAKE THE FINAL DECISION! Is it the devil’s fault that Adam and Eve ate the fruit? Heck no, IMO! Although he “seduced” them into making that decision, ultimately it was their choice. And I feel that is the way it is today with us!

ETA: And as far as my reference (calling him Big Jeezy), I mean no disrespect to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, but I am going to call him. Because in times of wellness or trouble, that’s what God wants us to do (Call Him!)

I agree!!!

 

[Enchantmt]

I agree!!!

Hey PB, have you discussed this with your father at all? I was wondering about the thoughts of other clergy on this matter.

 

[Shimmie]

No you didn't say "big Jeezy!" Wowowwww!!!!!

I'd like to offer that we must be careful about what we say in this situation, particularly on a spiritual level.... We would not want our words to come back and bite us if (God forbid) we were to execute poor judgement. I heard somebody say something like depending on the circumstances, we are ONE BAD DECISION AWAY FROM JAIL....

And even though I shouldn't have to say this, I'll say it anyway: my post here by NO MEANS serves as justification for this person's actions or explanation for his actions. He is telling the truth that it was the devil that influenced his actions.

I concur w/what Cocoberry says here about how such situations do not draw people to the Lord and at the same time, turn people away from the Lord.... It's not God's fault.... If anything, hopefully these situations will cause us to look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).

But you know what RR and Coco... Some people look for EXCUSES anyway, not to serve or accept Jesus.

Granted situations like this can put fear/doubt in the hearts of many. But many more have no intent of ever coming to Jesus and use this as one of their excuses.

Many are watching what we have to say; personally I am guarded and not guarded. For I'm not fearful of the opinions of lurkers who are looking to fuel their foolish whims on rejecting and criticising Christianity.

They too, need to look to God and not use this or any other human sin as an excuse to reject Jesus and becoming one with Him. And One with Him is what it's truly about in the first place.

I've had it up to 'here' with the phoney excuses...Weeks is not the first nor the last to sin. I would hate to tell God I chose to look at man and not Him.

To God be the Glory...

 

[DKO]

DISCLAIMER: I don’t mean this to come across as argumentative, so don’t take offense to my post! However, in NO WAY, SHAPE, or FORM am I judging this man, that’s why I specifically said “I can't even comment on this stuff anymore with these ministers” and “no one is perfect,” because I recognize that we all struggle and “fall short of the glory!” So, absolutely I realize that this man made a bad decision, and I am the first to tell you that I make bad decisions too! However, when we fall short, we have a responsibility to own up to these shortcomings and not “blame” the devil. Yes, the devil tempts and influences us, but at the end of the day WE MAKE THE FINAL DECISION! Is it the devil’s fault that Adam and Eve ate the fruit? Heck no, IMO! Although he “seduced” them into making that decision, ultimately it was their choice. And I feel that is the way it is today with us!

ETA: And as far as my reference (calling him Big Jeezy), I mean no disrespect to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, but I am going to call him. Because in times of wellness or trouble, that’s what God wants us to do (Call Him!)

ITA. If we were perfect, we would be GOD and there would have been no reason for Jesus to die for our sins in the first place. HOWEVER - when a person feels that they have been "called or led" into the ministry and take on the role of PASTOR, then that person should be held to a higher standard. Yes, they will make mistakes; however, there is certain behavior that is not excusable to me when you are in a position of leadership. For example, stealing money from the church, committing adultery and beating on people are a contradicition to the fundamentals of christianity. Everyone and even those who may not be Christian know the 10 commandments. So it is beyond me to understand, why it even came into his mind to react in such a way. If a childcare worker molested a child just one time and said the devil made me do it - how many people would forgive that person and allow their children to be around that person? What he did to me is just as bad...no even worse because he is in a leadership role and knew better.

 

[ajoyfuljoy]

"The devil made me do it"

is a lame excuse...especially for a "man of God"

I'd be hard pressed to find somebody that has stomped on their own wife! That's just sick. He's just using psychology on the Christians to try to get them not to think critically about this whole situation.

HE HAS A PROBLEM!!!

And I won't act like it didn't happen b/c physical abuse deserves no excuses!

 

[Shimmie]

"The devil made me do it"

is a lame excuse...especially for a "man of God"

I'd be hard pressed to find somebody that has stomped on their own wife! That's just sick. He's just using psychology on the Christians to try to get them not to think critically about this whole situation.

HE HAS A PROBLEM!!!

And I won't act like it didn't happen b/c physical abuse deserves no excuses!

Absolutely! There is a serious problem and it needs to be addressed and dealt with before it destroys him and possibly someone else.

The best thing that Weeks can do is to ...

'Step down' from Pastoring...it's OVER for now.

He cannot lead with this mindset...it's unholy and its deadly both spritually and physically...

Admit his need for help...satan is not the problem!

Stay away from denial...again, satan is not the problem!

Stay away from Juanita...

GET help Professional Spiritual Deliverance and stay with it...Live it!

Be an example to all men who have this problem OR could have this problem...

Allow God to create a powerful ministry from it. If anything a powerful lesson...

Weeks allowed his fears and failures to rule, when in turn it should have been committed to the Lord, a long time ago, before it began to fester inside of him. Here and only here is where satan had a foothold, when we do not surrender our all to God, no matter what it is...

This poor man 'lost' more than his home, his ministry, his beautiful wife...he lost his mind, his precious mind which God so wanted to clear for him and to make things right before they got out of hand...

You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind [both its inclination and its character] is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You. Isaiah 26:3 (Amplified Bible)

Our men need our prayers...for deliverance of fears of failure and pride...
Our women need our prayers...for deliverance and protection and denial.

We can't fix it ourselves. We need a much stronger power; that of our Father God in Heaven.

This poor man lost it, but God restores men who surrender their all...

In Isaiah 29, this man shall make peace with God....for God is watching over him to keep him from harming another precious soul and his own.