Seven Pounds
The other night I had the chance to attend the Dallas premiere of Will Smith’s latest movie, “Seven Pounds.” I don’t want to risk giving too much away, so I will only say that Will Smith and his co-star, Rosario Dawson – who I had the pleasure of meeting at last years CNN Heroes Awards ceremony – gave incredible performances and it is a must see movie.
As I prepare for the release of my new movie, “Not Easily Broken” - in theaters on Jan 9th and starring Morris Chestnut and Taraji P. Henson - I find that I look at everything in entertainment not so much from a viewer’s or a consumer’s perspective, but as someone who has a vested interest in the success of the film.
I was so impressed with the fact that Will used the premiere not only as a chance to tout and show off his new movie, but also as a chance to help a very deserving charity. Will made a generous donation to the Texas Food Bank, a charity that in today’s difficult economic times has no doubt been stretched to its limits of support.
I had a chance to meet privately with Will and we discussed the potential of working together on future projects that I hope to be able to share with you at a later date.
In the meantime, I have attached some pictures from that very enjoyable night and hope you enjoy them as much as I loved participating in them!
Bishop Jakes, Tom Joyner, and Donna Richardson-Joyner arrive at the Dallas screening of “Seven Pounds”
Will Smith greets Bishop Jakes at the Dallas screening of “Seven Pounds”
Will Smith, Bishop Jakes, Tom Joyner, and Donna Richardson-Joyner at the Dallas screening of “Seven Pounds”
Bishop Jakes greets fans at the Dallas screening of “Seven Pounds”
Bishop Jakes talks with media at the Dallas screening of “Seven Pounds”
Bishop Jakes and Will Smith
Bishop Jakes and Will Smith
All photos courtesy of Rance Elgin
Bishop,
It’s great to see you rocking with the stars - or rather, the stars wanting to rock with you. Such a testimony that we as God’s people can and must be relevant to all people, and that we must influence the influencers.
In the midst of the world financial meltdown, God brings his man before kings. Love it!
This inspires and motivates me.
Scott
I look forward to seeing your movie Bishop. I was thinking about taking my wife to go see Will’s movie. Will is an awesome actor and whatever he touches turns to gold. It would be nice to see the two of you collaborating…I can only imagine theaters being sold out.
You know its funny…even though you’re one of the (if not the) most recognizable pastors in America…I never thought you’d be asked for autographs. When I saw you autographing that lady’s bag I was shocked. I figure that was reserved for movie stars…but I guess even Bishop’s who preach God’s Word will be asked for a signature or two.
God Bless
Bishop, I am so happy that you are producing films and doing it through means other than the “4 walls”. I am an aspiring makeup artist, and just this past week got to work with Madonna’s makeup artist at an event here in the Detroit Metro area. God is calling us out, we just have to be willing to go. I pray that you will have good success in all of your endeavors!
Blessings,
Racquel Simone
It is good to see and hear altruistic acts by great people like Mr. Will Smith.
Will Smith always delivers excitement and juice to the film industry. He’s a colossal of talent and charisma.
Is there any legendary icon that Will Smith couldn’t portray with essence? Think Not….
Papa Jakes, you are truly a trailblazer for the Five-Fold Ministry in the twenty-first century.
Keep going strong Papa Jakes.
Greetings,
And also thanks for sharing the pictures, they are wonderful. It amazes me when people who are not christians love better. God is love and you cannot really know God if you donot know love. Do other faiths love more than christians?
Dear Bishop Jakes, Wow it looks in there like it was your birthday lol! Will Smith the Fresh Prince of Bel Air is still fresh lol. Don’t hurt yourself now. lol. bye. (smiles)
Dear Bishop Jakes, sorry I forgot to mention I’m excited about your movie I can’t wait till it comes out I’m definately watching it. (smiles)
Bishop Jakes!
Happy Thanksgiving…great to see you are alive and well. We (I think I can collectively speak for millions that read your blog) have missed you and your commentary in light of all the events of the past six weeks, specifically Mega Fest and the Election.
I look forward to some of your insight and an update on both of these topics. Again, Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family and congregation.
Be Blessed.
Good Evening Bishop Jakes, hope this message finds you well. I was just reading some of your blogs and looking at the pictures. You are just like me, and any other person. A normal person who enjoys the same things in life as all people do. You are just being used different by God than others are. People look at a person like you and think that you probably don’t have time to “have fun” when in fact you have fun like I or any other person would. I think that you are real people who have been chosen for such a time like this to carry forth God’s word like none other. I was one of the fortunate ones who got the chance to hear you speak when you came to Buffalo back in June. Hold on, help is on the way!!! I loved it. You spoke to my spirit that night with a word that I needed to hear. I hope to one day meet you in person. Not to be able to say that I met TD Jakes but to say, I met an anointed man of God who has blessed my soul and spirit. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Dear Pastor Jakes,
Will looks very happy to see you. I have always thought he is a top notch actor and enjoy his movies.
Blessings to you and your new movie, which I will see if it comes to my area.
Claudia
Congradulations Bishop on new endeavors and a big what up to will smith, your in my top ten of favrite actors.
One thing I have always enjoyed about Bishop TD Jakes Ministries is how he blends Business and church and for me this constitutes great God given Wisdom. I always preach the same sermon on my Radio Show that the church of God should find ways to great jobs, business for the community at large. For instance, many people come to church for they have a need and the church must look at those needs holistically and provide for the people. Another thing thing that I noticed was that in the olden days, the church would give someone a position based on their church commitments, but nowadays, the church needs to look at one more important thing, Education too. For how do you run a successful church with only prayerful people and not educated people. The bible says, in all your getting, get understanding too, for me that means get educated too. We are therefore looking forward to the 2 movies by Bishop TD Jakes and Will Smith down here in South Africa. Oh Bishop we really had a blast at the MegaFest this year and Africa, will never be the same. and Not forgetting the opportunity to meet with you and the team.
Wow! Bishop you are thee most precious fellow that I have ever been inspired by as a man of God. You really are. You run the gambit with the way that you advance our Fathers Kingdom. Lord what else do you want to be when you grow up? You are managing to express to us the many facets of a multifacted God. God by Himself is baaad alone but God reflecting Himself through you makes Him even baader cause He becomes tangible. After you get it down with mr. Baaad boy himself Will Smith I can see you with Tyler Perry. Now that right their would be nothing but pure TNT. Bishop thanks for coming to Oakland. For some reason I just couldn’t set it off like I needed to. I made a decision that I did regret even now. I did not stand in line for the book signing. I did however have the chance to worship with a very nice woman who turned out to be a member of my church and we sat and talked after service and I prayed for her and tho she felt that she could not pray because she did not have the words to say she prayed for me and it was wonderful. Well have a Thankful holiday and enjoy Gods beauty.
It was a pleasure and blessing to meet you at the “Before You Do” book signing after 8am service. You had asked me to write to you regarding my brain aneurysm experience and the ANGEL OF DEATH. If you’re getting ready to fly over seas for your next book signing this would be very interesting to read. Being the Man of God that you are, one of my reasons for sharing this with you (which I’m very particular with who I share this with) is to learn whether someone else have seen or shared a simular experience which I know you’ve heard many things. I was in service a couple of years ago when you spoke about your sister Jackie’s brain incident and I knew, that you knew, “What a Mighty God We Serve!” To flip the script, (and I know I can’t go into all the details because this could actually be a movie or a book) being the person with the aneurysm. When a sharp pain hit inside my head while getting ready to go to work, I shugged it off and kept of moving and getting to take my daughter to work day. After a few minutes I felt rather dizzy and feeling strangely in my head and my body weakening. I told the children I had to lay down for a moment to see if this would pass. Within 15 minutes it had only got worse and by this time it seemed as if someone had a hammer and was hitting me as hard as they could at the top of my head. After laying on the bed, I knew without a doubt that, “this was out of my control totally”! Have you ever not been in control? We try to control our cars, our lives, but imagine you letting the steering wheel go. Bishop, I opened my left hand and asked God, “whatever is going on Lord, take my hand. I can do nothing, THIS is out of my control.” I did not wake up to recognize anyone until after 3 days. Moving on to the night of the 3rd day, I awoke and heard someone stirring in the room. An overhead light was on over my bed as called, “Nurse!”, I called again and they didn’t answer. I couldn’t call loudly, or quickly move my head to another position, so I turned it slowly to the left to try to see who was in the room. When I did get my head turned enough to see, it was someone standing there with a BLACK HOODED ROBE on about 8 feet away from my bed, just standing there looking. I couldn’t see the face, only the robe. Immediatly I felt afraid and just looked, feeling inside why are you here. He just stood there like he just wanted me to see and know that he was there. Then he slowly turned around and walked away. I then closed my eyes to see if it was what I saw and he was gone. Bishop I know for a fact, God said “NO!” “Touch not my annointed!”, and HE HAD TO LEAVE. HE HAD TO LEAVE BISHOP! HALLALUJAH! I’m having to take a moment right now to just thank him again, and again and again. I didn’t have to be here right now to share this with you, but because on Sunday, November 23, 2008 God gave me the opportunity (which I prayed for) to share this story with you, and it has come to pass. I truly hope someone will read this message and pass it on to you Bishop, or you will find it. Of all the emails and comments that you receive, I know he’s able to get this to you. I thank you and Thank God for you MAN OF GOD, I appreciate all that you have done here and around the world. It takes a special someone to do and say all that you do and someone did not just pull your name out of a hat, you are truly hand picked by God. It’s truly amazing how God uses you to minister to his people. I hear your words from your heart, you speak truth and not ashame to let the people know, “it ain’t always been like this!” I can go on Bishop but unless you’re flying over the ocean, it may be time for me to close.
Well Bishop, take care of yourself and I pray you will receive and reply.
May God Continue to Bless you, the family, the Pottter’s House, and everything you put your hands to!!!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Merry Christmas
Happy New Year
Bishop I liked the idea that you are releasing a film called “not easily broken”. I am going to be the first one to get that film. I am not sure what the story of the film is but by the title I am convinced it suits my present situation (have gone through things, have been in the wilderness and am still in the wilderness), so am sure I will greatly benefit from the film. I also think your partnership with Will for future productions is a good move as you cross pollination.
On a different note, let me comment that I was greatly inspired by your book “Maximising the moment”. I am using it as a manual, I am in the Spring season of something that God has put in my heart (according to your book). I greatly benefited from your book.
Thank you Bishop for sharing with us it means so much. Have a happy thanksgiving. I am happy to hear that Mr Smith donated to the food bank. I remember you sharing your concern at one of the sunday internet services. God is in control. God bless you and your family along with Mr smith and his family. It is always amazing to me to see how God uses people. colleen collie from far rockaway
Bishop Jakes,
I am the person in the media photo and I wanted to say that I was honored to interview you. I am always amazed at how God works things out in our lives and how he allows you to meet people. I was excited to meet Will Smith again but when they said “The Bishop” was on the red carpet, I immediately asked that they bring you to me. I troubled them like the widow woman did.
I have ALWAYS wanted to interview you and I thought it would b at the church but God had a different plan. I honor you today for your leadership and teaching the word of God to masses. I pray that one day my dream to interview you on a one on one individual basis will come true.
I will be happy to share the ed carpe nterview with you. As I stated, I operate a food pantry in West Plano and I have seen the number of people that we assist move from 5 families to 30 families per day. I would like to continue the discussion we had on the red carpet about making a difference. Your responses to my questions left me wanting to do more for God and my fellow man.
May you and your family be blessed during and after the holidays.
Much Respect,
Cheryl “Action” Jackson
Happy Thanksgiving Bishop and First Lady!!!
I saw on T.V. the contribution Will Smith made to Texas Food Bank That was wonderful!! We are greatful for our church and the angel food ministry because we didn’t have any food last week, now we have food to eat!! Congratulations on your new movie, “Not Easily Broken” and your new T.V. talk show. Blessings in Jesus name!!!
Hi Bishop. I was glade to receive your blog showing you at the movie premier with Will Smith.
From everything that I read, he and his collaborators, are a very schreewed and talented movie producers.
I hope that you will collaborate with him in future movie projects–that would be a very, very good move for the both of you.
God Bless You, Bishop Jakes. I can see the move of God working in you and all around you. God has certainly given you favor for His Glory. And, I am more than pleased to receive the crumbs by just sitting under your pastoralship.
Happy Thanksgiving to You and Your Family,
In Christ,
Pamela Johnson
I love this, the older and younger generation working together. This is what we need. Thumbs up to Will Smith.
Thank you for taking the time to share.
One of these days I will get a chance to have my picture taken with you too…..(LOL)
Man, that movie looks Dope, that’s pretty cool that God has you in a place that allows you to be in places of influence and example.
daddy jakes, you are so awsome. I always enjoy reading your comments and thoughts. I think that was so nice that you are supporting will smith’s movie, and telling everyone else about it. You don’t see to much of that nowa days! because everybody is so busy stepping on others trying get theirs. But you have enough passion and non-jealousy to expose this man’s movie, inspite of your upcoming movie. That’s why you are so blessed. Because you never have jealousy of nobody! you are a lot like me. I have support for everyone, not just myself. I will definitely go and see will’s movie as well as yours. I’m saving myself a seat alraedy at the theaters. Peace! HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU AND YOUR BEAUTIFUL WIFE AND FAMILY! mUCH.mUCH LOVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My heart skipped a beat when I saw the picture of Bishop with Will Smith. I love both of them. I tell everyone Will is my son (reminds me of my son - when they were young with the rapping) anyway I love TD Jakes too and it was wonderful to see the two men I love together.
God bless you Bishop Jakes,
I thank God for you and your ministry. And I thank you also for sending me those email, they’re a blessing to me. I have a small groupe of twenty to fourty peoples. We pray together and having Bible stydi specialy on mariage. God put in my heart to pray specialy for the family and the Pastors’family. I don’t know well as you do, so I need some more information that I can share with them so we can have less divorce spacialy in Church. You’re doing a great job, Bishop Jakes! May gos blessing be upon you, your family and your ministry.
Sincerely yours, Oclerne Onore
Good Morning Bishop Jakes,
Happy Thanksgiving! It looks like you really had a nice time at the screening of Seven pounds. Can you tell us more about your movie “Not easily broken”? Is it going to be the first of a series of movies? Does it have a sequel? And where did the idea for the movie come from? It’s amazing how many gifts and talents the Lord is manifesting in you during your second 50 years of life.
Maybe next time we can see some photos of you, your son, and Will Smith, though. You know, kind of a multigenerational (father and son) night out on the town. God Bless you. Love always, Monica.
way to go Bishop and Mr smith, I wish I could be a star
Thankful for you today! God uses you to keep me moving forward - THANK YOU!
hi daddy
i’m very happy to recieve trhis from you and i wanna say that i’m interested of been an acter in my life.
i’m open to revieve this oppontunity from you.
Bishop, I’m so blessed to be able to say”that’s my Bishop” but where is my First Lady? I love you Bishop but I miss seeing my friend and first Lady. Send her my Love okay and I’ll see both of you really soon.
I’m supporting you all the way untill God say’s it’s over and the fat lady sings!
Sincerely;
Lady Ray
That was really nice you could to take the time out to share your night out with me i really enjoy hearing about the things that u do u and your wife.
Thank You Bishop, for all that you do.
THANK YOU!!!
Helen
Dear Bishop,this is really wonderful and also toughtful of you.This experience of such a great meeting
The Peace and the Love of God and you, Bishop, are wonderful, I was so surprized, and happy to see you amoung the fans, and to know that you are in the Movie business, know that’s excitement, I would like to see you come up with a movie of Bibicial terms, let’s say “Egyptians”, why, for simple reason, the believed in “Eternal Life” that’s awesome, you can give it a thought?, maybe?, give my love first Lady Serita, I love her. cynthia E
congratulations!! Bishop seems like you had a wonderful time. You mentioned entertainment, I pray ministers don’t get caught up in entertaining people of God that they fail to let God lead what is being said to the people. I have been to many churches where the preacher does not read the bible for afternoon sermons but he uses someones testimony to deliver a message to the people and I wonder, was God in that preaching or teaching or was that just man. Shouldn.t ministers hide behind the cloth and allow the Spirit of God dwell witnin in order to feed Gods people the Word from heaven we need to hear?
I AM SO JEALOUS I COULD NOT BE THERE!!!!
Bishop Jakes you are doing what I call Kingdom business. I love it, I love it. No limits, Hollywood get ready, get ready, get ready!! I am so conected with what you are doing for the Lord. Keep it up and keep the FAITH. We look up to you Bishop and when you go forward I go forward. Thank you for giving us hope.
Will remember you in prayer.
Elizabeth UK
Bishop,
I do praise God for The Favor that is on you life. It is so great to be a part of history and to be able to see you walk into your season. There was a day when we would not EVEN be caught at the movie theater. Praise God for understanding, and for you having the mind to be a part of what is happening in the earth. Will Smith is a great artist and it is great to see him go from rapper to actor in a great way.
I know that your movie will do very well, and I plan to make sure that I’m a part of making your movie set box office records.
Be blessed and just walk into your season! We love and appreciate you and your blessed family.\o/
Dear Biship Jakes
I am a 27 year old military spouse of seven years. My husband and i have been separated twice now. Before this last separation that is leading to a divorce, my husband recieved orders to go overseas to germany and he did not want to miss out on three of her life so we gave our marriage another shot. When we first got to Germany everthing was wonderful but after about five months things took a turn for the worse. finical issues occured, other women, longing to be in the streets with friends, constant agruments for no reason. Lets just say that i had thoughts of killing him and not caring. Then, one day i was turning the channels and i saw you on tv. from that moment until now i still watch you on tv. i just want to say thank you. Because of you and the good Lord i am still standing. (i just watched I’m still standing on television) i kept my hands to myself, i did alot of prayingand crying and now i am in my house with all things. i am getting ready to go back to college and finish up my bachelor’s degree. But above all that my relationship with Christ is stronger . So i just want to say thank you agin because you really saved my life.
I had the opportunity to meet you at a book signing “Reposition Yourself”. But I also meet you every Sunday on my cable channel. Thank you for using the gift God bestowed upon you. Thank you for sharing your life and gifts with the world. The world is a better place. Thank you for being a work in progress and sharing.
Thank You!
which one is will smith again? I could recognize TD Jakes anywhere though.
We are all inspired by someone, somehow, in some way. None of us got where we are today ALL by ourselves.
You have inspired me to become a writer. The passion has always been inside of me, lying dormant. Until one day I was tired of birthing a still born idea, and started nurturing the dream of responsibility, possibility and hope. I still have a long way to go and so much to learn before even thinking about publishing a book. It may be a year from now, or 20 years from now…But I know, it’s going to happen! For now, I start with a blog site…and work from there. (Small, but powerful steps into my destined future.)
I am counting down the days until your opening movie of “Not Easily Broken.” If it is better than the book, I might faint! (LOL)
And if my husband watches it with me, I just might go into cardiac arrest!!! (LOL)
Stay Inspired!
Dear Bishop,
I want to thank you for being a great inspiration to me. God bless you for obeying his call. For because you obeyed, Im being transformed by God through you. I glorify the Lord for you have given your life in service to him so that the lost can find HIM and the captives can be free again.
God continue to bless you.
I luv you bishop.
Your daughter in Christ Jesus
Ann.
Good Evening Bishop!
I pray that your Thanksgiving with your family was everything that it should be; peaceful, loving, and lots of good food to eat! We had a wonderful Thanksgiving Meal with our family, and I am especially thankful, because I had the pleasure of my older sister to help me feed the masses @ my home! The food was great, but the company was greater!
I am watching you on the Dr. Phil’s Show, right now. I guess you can say that I am multi-tasking. It is always a pleasure to see you minister to the masses with the wisdom of God. I praise God for you, Bishop, for you being able to address the needs of people from every level, and to do it it with such candor.
I can’t hardly wait for your movie, and Will’s movie, to appear @ a site near me! We did miss you and !st Lady on this past Sunday, but as always, you always make sure that we get “fed” well. Bishop Eric McDaniels was awesome! I know that we are quite spoiled @ TPH, but at least, we share you with the nations, and we get some great benefits for doing so! My greatest desire is for everyone to experience Christ, this season like they never had before, and that Gods’ Word becomes digestible to every palate,and that the people of God will innoculate everyone within their perimeter! I would also like to wish you, your family, and everyone; A Very Merry Christmas, and A Happy New Year!
p.s. Blog pals don’t forget to order your “boxes” for digital programming, because the time is drawing near! (DTV2009) We don’t want you to miss the Bishop, if you don’t have cable (smile)!
Good morning Bishop Jakes! First of all, I want to say thank you. The word that God has placed on your lips has been a safe haven as I have ran to it during struggles, pestilence, persecution, test, trials, hurt, pain, peace, and confusion. It is my prayer that God continues to strengthen and instruct you. Anyways, I HAVE A BIG QUESTION!!!!
What is your perspective on christian movies that house some profane language? I noticed during the trailer that there was a word of profanity being used. For me, the focus is more on the content and the message. Therefore, personally, I am not bothered. Yet, is this ever an issue with other christians? If so, please share with me your thoughts on the subject. Thanks…
Timothy Mitchell
Dear Timothy,
I am glad you asked the question. I try not to label the movie a Christian movie for if I do, only Christians will come and see it. I want to do great movies that all people will enjoy. If I succeed in doing that then perhaps more than Christians will come and perhaps I can influence those who may not be willing to come to church but might go see a movie that makes them laugh, weep, think, and still want to change. I am occasionally asked this question at a screening. But even in rooms filled with ministers they generally get the context and think it was not over the top.
We deliberated over this in the making of the movie, Not Easily Broken. There are very few curse words at all. However there are some and this is the reason: what makes movies effective is when the characters are realistic and believable. Much like The Passion of the Christ which ended up with an “R” rating (for violence) but got that rating for a realistic depiction of calvary. You can’t show the reality of a crucifixion and not show blood! Similarly, we wanted the movie to be a real and honest reflection of what goes on in homes, or on community basketball courts all over America. I am proud to say there are no gratuitous sex scenes, no stereo typical drug deals, or exploitation of women or male bashing.
But if you are going to show a drug deal in a movie or a basketball game played by secular guys, you can’t have sinners who are involved in a drive-by shooting saying lines like, “Gosh man!” or, “Dad gum it, shoot him!” When you do that, it may win you some points with a few puritanical Christians, but it is not true to life and it makes the movie seem unrealistic.
I avoid over the top vulgarity as I think Hollywood needs to know that we don’t need vulgarity to enjoy a movie. But I do believe that if we say Jesus is the answer, and He definitely is, we have to be able to discuss the question. The great thing about this movie is that it is designed so that both the secular and the sacred can enjoy watching it without either feeling that we didn’t do a good job of showing real life situations. Simply stated, it is good to show what a difference Christ makes in a person’s life by showing how that person changes over time through Christ’s influence. Even we Christians who struggle and slip can fall. We don’t always live up to our highest ideals either. It is simply real life and theater, in order to be real, has to be honest about the human experience. Not Easily Broken will have a “PG” rating and should be suitable for you or your children in that age category. My fourteen year old son has seen it many times and I felt comfortable showing it to him. It is not a movie for small children, not because of profanity because the subject - it is about the hardships and struggles of grown people who are trying to maintain their love for each other. Generally, that isn’t what an eight year old wants to go watch. Thank you for your question, Timothy!
All the best,
Bishop Jakes
Hello Bishop Jakes;
I hope God will move on you to make a movie regarding single parent mom’s raising males alone. It’s no joke and they deal with many issues that affects their emotions, finances, sprituality and not to mention the He-Motions of the male child. I would like to have insight on what you think about making a movie regarding, “Raising a Male Child By Yourself: It’s No Joke!!”
Bishop< I don’t know how I got on the list but I’m glad I am. These messages has been very encouraging and heartfelt. My spouse and I are facing bankruptcy and we are Pastors, we have tried to go around it but have nto been able to. We know that we have to go through it. The bible says to owe no man nothing but to love him so we know that God will help us to do that the best way we can. We are certainly trying to cut back and also pay who we can, when we can. We appreciate any helpful advice we can receive. God Bless!
Encouraged, Lake Charles, La Tracy Washington
Bishop & First Lady Syrita;
It is interesting how we find ourselves judging what others say. I say we because I feel that we all have done it. The dynamics of the position that God has call and chosen you to be in is so profound. Bishop, we need more Pastors, Teachers, Administrators, Preachers, Evangelist and Scholars that can keep it real like you do. Jesus meet people where they are and so do you, Bishop. If there is profanity in the new movie well all I can say is meet the people where they are Bishop. “Meet them where they are” so they can capture the realness of God, because this is not a fantasy life, it is individual lives that need saving.
Mary Ramsey-Johnson
Hey Bishop,
Glad to know you are doing so much and getting more and more people involved.
I will try and watch Will’s movie but i definitely wanna see yours and I am looking forward to seeing you in Jamaica December 2008 that’s in a few days. Can’t wait for the blessing to be on our nation, we need a change.
Dear Bishop,
I bless the Lord for what He is doing with you in this generation. I pray to God to restore every lost glory in my life and turn my life into a fruitful field like yours and an object of terror to satan and his kindom. I know your prayer for me can make a big difference in my life.
Nnamdi Ezenwanne (writes from Nigeria)
I thank God for you life Bishop. You make serving God a real life thing. I just got to this blog and i know i will never miss coming here again. God bless you and what you start for. You are an inspiration to a lot of us in this part of the world with your hopeful teachings. You are my papa in the world. I just too happy to write you. God bless you SIR.
Praise the Lord Bishop Jakes I am happy for you and your success in both movies you had produce. I am sure it will turn out to be an excellent film regarding life issues in marriage. I am puzzled and amazed that you are truly a teacher of the word this is what I admire about you Bishop your in depth teachings. But one day my minister stated during church how you dont do alter call and baptism within in your church. I would not know because I never been to your church.But It hurt me because he said something about a man of God.I had said to myself how can a man have so many people within his church and dont do alter call. I try to defend you to the best of my ability. I believe that you are blessed and God has used you in different ways to help this world. Be Watchful Bishop not to conform oneself to worldly things or people sometimes we as christians have to look back to where we came from and continue God work by his holy word and doctrine. I pray that one day God would allow me to fellowship with you because you are a great teacher in deed God Bless you and your family
Hello Ms. Beechum-Hafiah, I greet you with good tidings! I just wanted to let you know that at The Potter’s House we have alter call every Sunday at both services. Bishop Jakes and the other patorial staff will never, ever close service without giving an opportunity for those who are lead by the Holy Spirit to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Also, every 2nd Sunday of each month we have baptism. Bishop is a very busy man but not to busy to make sure he and the members of his staff are not doing the Lord’s work. I hope you will let your pastor know this, so he will no longer pass along false information. You can also check view our services on Sunday morning at 8am & 11:30am over the internet. Usually services are held on the internet all the way through the alter call.
May you and your family have a blessed Christmas and Happy New Year!!
Thanks so much for your words of encouragement. For clarity sake, we DEFINITELY do have alter calls almost every Sunday. Frankly, alter calls is how I built my church to the 30,000 members we currently have on roll. Some time ago we used to baptize on Wednesday, as we often baptize quite a large mass of people at one time and found it difficult to do it on Sunday morning due to our crowd. Now we baptize monthly and generally show the baptism on screen as we just did last Sunday. Any of our members reading this blog can easily confirm that we do both alter calls and baptism regularly. I am sorry your Pastor is misinformed and has misinformed others but I am not surprised this often happens.
All the best,
Bishop Jakes
It is so wonderful when people give back. Bishop Jakes & First Lady are an example.
T.D. your willingness and ability to listen to God is beyond earthly words. Not so impressed with the interaction with the stars as the possibility of them being transformed and enlightened by their proximity to God’s annointing in you. Gonna try and make the Charleston connection as that is the birthplace of an ancestor. Todays service July26 was the most life changing service that I have ever experienced. I had to wade through an atmosphere designed by the enemy that kept me from attending and battle with more unGodly feelings of remorse for not pushing through that. I layed down during the streaming but through a dream i still connected, awakened to you saying over and over let the annointing go with you the pressure just left and all the physical pain that that chronic pressure can produce. I was sooooooooooo impressed by your endurance and willingness in the laying on of hands that in and of itself was healing for me , that Divine generosity. And T.D. it was so enjoyable to see you as a little kid not wanting to leave the sanctuary that was so touching and fact of the matter is I would have remained with the worship as long as the streaming lasted. I received a spiritual hit pretty powerful this week. That service saved my life.I thank God for you T.D.
I would like to thank God for you Bishop Jakes for being a role model to black men that you have never even seen before! My question is how do you have time to write so many books with all the other projects you do. Can you lay out your method?
yours in Christ
Christopher Semmes
Dear TD,
What ever happened to the movies where all we would see
was two people go into a room and the door closed, and
we were supposed to understand that what went on in there
was something that wasn’t to be seen by others?
I think the use of words considered cuss words should be
handled the same way. It’s best if we do not hear them.
A good producer or director should be able to set the stage, the scene, the atmosphere in such a way that we
can understand the feeling of the person who was done the
wrong, or the one who did the wrong and was about to get
caught.
I think you know what I mean.
I think I would rather see a movie in which there is no
offensive language. By that I mean the use of words which
by themselves are offensive.
We will not cease to witness language that is of no offense whatsoever to God till we come all the way into his kingdom along with everybody else.
Till then, I would rather watch a movie in which the characters make facial expressions of such things as anger, bitterness, wrath, lust or rage, whether it’s a
drive-by shooting or whatever the scene.
I can still recall the expression of Sylvester Stalone
in Rambo, expelling the rounds of an M-60 machine gun
with a sneer. If he did say a few cuss words,
I do not recall, but the face is the countenance
of man and though the tongue is the rudder that directs
the course of man, the countenance tells us where he’s
at.
I suppose some might think it to be a comedy film if the
characters were silent during the most horrific scenes,
but I think I could live with such acting far better than
the words I’ve heard in the middle of many films.
There are times, it seems so often, that when I leave a
movie, I had wished that I had not seen it, and part of the reason is because of the language.
There’s a substance in the fruit I do not wish to receive.
The fruit of the actions we see can get into our soul by
the windows of the eyes. Sometimes therefore it is best to
keep them closed. I think so also with the hearing of the
ear, yet it’s easier for me to close my eyes with my eyelids than to cover my ears. It seems like to me that
the foul words shoot out faster than I can cover for.
This is spiritual warfare isn’t it? After some of the movies I’ve seen, I felt that I had lost and need to
regroup and recover and not go that way again.
Some time ago I received an e-mail from T.D. Jakes Ministries and the link lead me to the blog section of his website. I clicked on the link about the new Will Smith movie entitled 7 lbs. Intrigued by the photos, I read Bishop’s comments and browsed the photos. I was informed that Bishop has a new movie coming out starring Morris Chestnut entitled “Not Easily Broken”. I was also intrigued by Bishop’s desire to do a project with Will Smith and what appeared to me to be an endorsement of Will’s latest movie “7 Pounds”. Well last night a friend and I decided to go and check the movie out. Neither one of us knew much about it and found the movie trailer to be somewhat vague and cloudy. Anyway, as I began to watch the movie for the first half, I’m paying very close attention to every single detail (background, words said, clothing, facial expressions, etc) because it’s a little difficult to figure out what’s going on. I began to have some hunches somewhat early on though, especially when Ben Thomas’ (the character played by Will Smith) friend is standing in his motel room and promising to execute Ben’s wishes as Ben is signing some legal documents.
(DELETE THIS SECTION IF YOU PLAN TO SEE THE MOVIE)
To make a very long story short, because Ben made a vital mistake and caused a fatal traffic accident that killed his wife and six other people, he in-turn saves the life of seven people by giving his fortune and his life so they may live. Very Messiahanic. The thing that perverted the whole story line was THE WAY Mr. Thomas went about “saving” the life of six of the seven people. The writer really tried to play this into a twisted Romeo and Juliet love story and somehow send a message that suicide is okay under the guise of “love”. That is exactly what Satan has painted with a number of sin issues. It’s okay as long as you really “love” them. How we define love has become the justifiable means of “doing right in our own eyes”.
I consider myself I pretty heavy thinker and if anyone else can watch this movie and get a different message other than what I’d got, I’d like to hear it. There may have been some other hidden subliminal messages tucked away in there some where, but the ultimate message hinged on giving Mr. Ben Thomas equality with Christ. How dare you Mr. Jakes!
Does anyone know the title or artist for the 1940’s (or around there) love scene song that was played on the record player in the movie? I would love to purchase it on Itunes and have no idea what I am looking for.
Continue to stay relevant as you reveal God’s truths Bishop Jakes…May the hand of God continue to guide all of your endeavors!!!!
Dear Pastor Jakes,
After seeing this movie, I became deeply disturbed and distraught over Will Smith’s portrayal of this tortured soul(I’m deeply spiritual and reflective). He was so terrific in this, yet the movie gave some great discussion questions for people of all faiths:
1. How do we seek redemption?
2. How can we alter someone’s circumstances ( and feel we have achieved this?)?
3. How do we know when we have been redeemed?
4 How can we intersect with God in achieving our redemption?
Ed Gibbs
Blessing Bishop
I went to see “seven pounds” because Will Smith is a wonderful actor and I normally enjoy his movies. I must say as a actor he was wonderful as always but I did not enjoy the story line at all. I believe that we can live through anything with prayer, support and a lot of love. Life and death happens everyday and I believe that there is no spot , no situation where God is not. The worst case can be a testimony for someone not a way out. The group I was with thought it to be the best love story ever I just could not see it that way. A love story because love is, it was sad and I wished it could have shown strength in overcoming what seemed to be a worst case life event.
Blessing Always
Mz D
I was so discouraged after watching this movie. Suicide is never a good thing! This movie makes it seem ok to take your own life when it blesses somebody else. So sad! My husband and I were very depressed after the show!
PS. I know real life happens. I am not living in a fairy tale dream, but it left me with a disturbed feeling. I am having to deal with life too, and it is not always going to end well because life happens, and not everybody looks to GOD for a reason to live. It is just that I would hope to see the world try to show that there is hope, that suicide was not the way out. In another sense…I have to add he did act the part very well. I just never want to have to see that movie again. I would not have even wrote anything at all, but it’s just that the only reason I went to see it was because you wrote it was a must see, and well…you are TD Jakes and the world looks up to you. I was just…and still am, I don’t even have words to say how I feel after watching that. My spouse has shared with me thoughts he has had. I too have battled depression to that point. Then to see that on the big screen left me with a sick feeling. Can you offer me something so that I can see the movie in a new light? I hate to leave it like this. The story ending was not what I expected and the feeling I had, it makes me really wonder about where it left my spouse and what he is now thinking.
Dear pastor jakes, you are Gods special gift to the present world keep at it for the creation is enjoying your manifestation
I have not yet seen the move, but from the previews, it’s real life. We as a people have to face life for what it is. Things like this do happen, but the end there of depends on the decision we make. I do intend to go and see the movie this weekend. I pary that God will continue to inspire you (Bishop Jakes). Another movie that touched my heart is ” Woman, Thou Art Loose”, I truely believe you have the gift, talent and anointing upon your lift to direct such inspiring and self revealing movies and books.
God Bless you, Bishop.
Love Sheneca.
Praying always for you and everyont that surrounds you.
Excellent
keep up the good work people im really happy and proud of wat has been happening ..
hey guys plz tell me one thing that wat does 7 pounds mean ??/
I have yet to see the movie Seven Pounds, but i will be seeing it fairly soon, and i have heard very rave reviews about this movie i am looking forward to seeing it. Will Smith has grown a lot and i have always been a fan of his. One day i would love to meet him face-to-face one day.
What does “Seven Pounds” really mean???
I think that it means that there are seven things in life that will either help you or hurt you but only if you let them. It is up to you to know what it is that these seven things are in your life styles.
i appreciate your gift, anointinting and talent. plz know thati read your books and listen to your dvd’s and i would not, but i pray for you continually that satan would not overtake you in any of the areas men-tioned above because we are not ignorant of the devils devices!!! i would not take the time to read into your ministry if i thought god was not the pilot of you soul. i repeat i pray for you bishop family and church that the god of glory will always be edified.. god bless you now and always. pastor a.r. jones
hey i saw the movie and was touched by the story i was really crying by the end of the movie……………
Bishop,
I am always blessed whenever i lay my hands on your sermons. I should first make a confession that i may be violating copyright laws. i always get your messages from friends and copy them. Your messages are not available easily in Zimbabwe and when they are available, they are unaffordable. Internet connection is painfully slow. But the few messages that i have listened to have blessed me. i am watching a snippet of Entering into GOD’s rest on youtube and wish the message was available. Bishop why dont you make available some of your messages for free on the internet in mp3 format. Not that you have to offer things for free but it pains me to be blessed by a snippet on youtube and then not have access to the whole message - IT REALLY PAINS BISHOP. Maybe your partners can help make it possible. Think about it, there could be a billion souls that could come to the lord after watching / listening to God’s message(usually erroneously called TD Jakes’s message!!!! - i am not complaining!!!). I know you need funds to carryout your numerous assignments and charitable activirties but we need some access to your message bishop.
Stay blessed and continue to be used by the Lord in such an amazing way. You have inspired us.
Bishop Jakes………my wife and I saw “Seven Pounds”……….Will Smith and supportive cast were outstanding. For certain, a MUST SEE MOVIE for EVERYONE!!!
i have never heard about your film ’seven pounds’. and you can bet i have not seen it before.but having the opportunity to leave a comment here…your blog? is just really awesome. and i just prayerfully expect and believe that the LORD, by letting me do this, is expanding my horizons. i also wonder if i can pay my tithes to your church. but i’m way over in Africa, i wish i could just wire my meagre tithes to your great church… though i believe the Lord lifts the poor from the dust and sets them amongst princes to ‘hobnob and associate with them without feeling any less than they are-eventually!- my translation.’
i just wonder though BISHOP, WHAT YOU DO, SIGNING AUTOGRAPHS, IS IT THE WILL OF GOD?
WHAT DO YOU THINK GOD THINKS ABOUT IT? MAYBE I SHOULD REALLY JUST WATCH THIS MOVIE.
Bishop Jakes,
This is my first time on your website but I have been watching your sermons from KOREA, your church is filled with joy and inspiration to uplift and speak the good word to all ages. I enjoyed the movie “Seven Pounds, it allowed us to see how you take lives n give back your life to those you took. I have enjoyed your book “Making Great Decisions”, oh my god your book is so inspiring and uplifts my heart to all my issues that I am undergoing while serving in the United States ARMY for over six years. You are truly a bllessed African American man and blessed to give the word to us individuals. I loved the movie Not Easily Broken the actors and actresses were awesome and the the structure of the movie teaches us valuable lessons of pain, sorrow, health issues, marriage, cheating, love, etc. I cant wait to see what is next to come from you.