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Assemblies of God International Fellowship reports on current Senator Grassley probe of mega-church ministries.
June 17, 2008
Shalom partners and friends!
After reviewing the resent attacks on several ministries and mega-churches by the U.S. Senate there is an issue that needs to be disclosed to all believers in our Lord Christ Jesus, across all denominations and fellowships.
Here is a report is courtesy of Assemblies of God International Fellowship:
"The current Senate probe of select mega-church ministries seems to be crossing a legal boundary. Politicians enact laws to separate Church and State which many think to be unconstitutional and then try to intrude into Church affairs while denying the Church discussion of State (political) affairs. This sounds like a one way street in favor of the State. However, since the State created the I.R.S. to collect and oversee tax matters and also enacted laws granting tax exemption to Churches - the I.R.S. should be the entity conducting an investigation. Therefore it seems that Rev. Copeland is right in ignoring the Senate's investigation of Church affairs but pledging to fully cooperate with any investigation by the I.R.S."
As a former tax manager I can see the far reaching effects of this investigation if the Senate is allowed to obtain the information they are seeking. This is not just an issue of separation of church and state but also one of protecting your privacy.
If the IRS performs this investigation then taxpayers are protected by section 6103 from public disclosure of private information. However, if this information is obtained directly by Senator Grassley's committee it could potentially be used in a manner that could harm or embarrass the Church (any church!), its preachers, members, partners, and friends. In simple words - this could set a precedence of allowing your tithing and giving records to be made public!
Even if you do not agree with the doctrines of these churches and ministries, let us still stand in prayer with them as they also call Jesus Lord and they are fighting for our (the Body of Christ) privacy too!
Thanks so much and God Bless!
Rev. Chari Bouse
Editor-in-Chief
White Eagle News
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