Honestly, we never can tell people's situation when we try forcing a smile out of them but that line of encouragement would do better These discussions are good, thank you!!
I am really enjoying this Podcast. I think you are very down to earth, intelligent and one of the best singers of all time and I will be 73 on April 11th. I will be at the Dallas Concert.
I let Mariah Carey be when she came to my church in NY but I think that's because I'm from Barbados and we generally don't freak out about celebrities. Also, it was because our church was kinda used to celebrities visiting. With oour Pastor being a former Congressman and our MD being well known in the music industry, at least for me, it became a lil normalized to see famous people
This is indeed a complex issue that many growing churches face, and your insight sheds light on the challenges we encounter. As someone who serves in a large church and interacts with various members, including having relationships with some of the celebrities / influencers, I understand the delicate balance we strive for in fostering unity among all believers. It's evident that there's a tension between the inclusivity we aim for and the discomfort that arises when certain individuals receive what's perceived as special treatment. While I empathize with those in leadership roles navigating these dynamics, I believe it's crucial for us to address this issue head-on. Ultimately, I feel like as brothers and sisters in Christ, we should ALL be striving for genuine fellowship and worship without the hindrance of social hierarchies. This requires intentional leadership that fosters a culture of humility, inclusivity, and seeing each other through the lens of God, where every member feels valued and respected regardless of their status or background. Most importantly, we have to make sure that we are fighting against our human desire to idolize man, and that means not doing church in a way that further adds to that idolization. Navigating this in a mega-church context poses unique challenges, particularly concerning the influx of non-members and people with ill intentions. Ensuring everyone feels safe and welcomed while maintaining the integrity of our community is paramount. It's imperative that we actively seek solutions rather than passively accepting the status quo. Again, ultimately, our goal should be to break down barriers that hinder authentic worship and fellowship, allowing all individuals to freely engage in the faith community without feeling marginalized or excluded. Let's continue to prayerfully work towards this ideal, trusting in God's guidance as we navigate these complexities together.
This was rich. I was happy to close my mouth and over active mind and listen. The part about the VIP was delivered with substance. I have heard the topic being discussed before and my initial thought was there should not be any favoritism in God's house. But, when Jonathan dissected the matter and Brunes interjected the what ifs, I have to agree with Jonathan about equity. Equity in ministry is grace on display. I salute you gentlemen for using your platform to minister relatably in a nontraditional way. Sometime we just need to talk and unpack and let glory flow.
Let’s BE FOR REAL. People absolutely DO NOT know how to leave people alone. If people could leave people alone, allow them to listen to a service, not sneak pics and videos of them then sure, there is no need for VIP,, but people DO NOT know how to let people be. If I was dealing with something internally I would be so annoyed if someone was video taping me or tapping me while I’m trying to worship and listen to the message
I grapple with this topic. I understand your perspective, and I actually don’t care if there is a VIP section. I have a son with special needs, so we attend a church that makes Jesus and an experience accessible to him. I get it from that perspective. And I also wonder if part of the struggle is setting boundaries and having to tell people no. This is something I think all people struggle with, as we don’t want to let people down or disappoint them. It’s a privilege to be able to avoid this human experience, as a celebrity that everyone is not afforded. No right or wrong: just another lens to view the topic
I love that point of view about why you want to have the vip section because you want to feel human and normal amongst regular people. My 1st thought was about feeling safe to go somewhere because some fans can be crazy like obsessed but at the same time, your main reason why.
Lol.. that was really good! Looking forward to the next one. You and Brunes are a good team.🎉 Jonathan, you are so loved because you are godly, intelligent and wise, keep it real, competitive, challenge common thinking, and hilariously funny without trying to be. ❤
The podcast is great! Thanks for shedding some light on just wanting to he regular. As a fan, we don't think about if you want to bothered or not when we see you in person. So the next time I see you in person I'll wave from a distance and not come to you expecting you to want to take a picture lol 👋🏽
Another point for the VIP section: In addition to special guest being a distraction, it may also pose a security risk depending on the size of the church, number of people rushing your way, etc. Also not all people who visit a church have the best intentions. You could have some stalkers (or worse) in the pews as well.
Absolutely nothing wrong with church VIP section. Totally with everything you said. Easy entrance exit all that logistics and security also play a part. I get it especially for those that want to JUST partake of the service have a role in service . Some places just go wayyyyy overboard. And abuse it use it as something else . But this was hilarious 😂 y’all funny .
I love your theme song lol ! Great video. The enemy is so annoying, always coming to kill, steal, and destroy. I agree, I am going to be confident and get what is mine. The enemy is not taking it this time.
So as a woman that often gets told to smile - I smile out of being polite but I truly hate being told to smile lol 1. I am a deep thinker and I be in my head. 2. It’s annoying for the same reason you said it was annoying. I don’t want to perform for anyone. I just wanna present myself as I am without being held to an expectation. If a man did all that lip smacking I’d laugh in his face lol
And "3%" I'm one of those people who will pretend not know the celebrity when they show up in church, cause the eyes of my understanding are enlightened ,I can't afford to be distracted in church cz I love taking notes and focus 🙌
I enjoyed this. I always wondered how “celebrities” or those who have a high level of fame/spotlight, felt coming into church. I see people “fan out” is what I call it. To me, i definitely view yall as human who’s gift/occupation has them in the spotlight doesn’t mean yall want to be treated as such even in the church house. That’s just my opinion though.
Very nice episode! and Thanks for the apology! cant tell you how many times in a week I get told to smile by somebody's uncle or granddaddy... Also, Idk if its just my computer, but the music audio in the transitions bleeds through, which I assume is intentional... but its kinda loud friend... at least at first. i always have to turn it down, but then i miss the first few tidbits of each conversation lol Dont change it if yall like it, I just wasnt sure if anyone had mentioned it. if its just me, ill be quiet*Smokie from Friday voice*
My opinion is that we, as Christians, should not idolize. I know we're not perfect, but we're there for the word of God, if a celebrity walks in for service, we as a congregation should not be paying attention to them instead if the word. I completely see your point of view though. It makes sense.
Please don’t tell me to smile….. I will tell you that I am happy and don’t judge a book by its cover. I hate when people tell me to smile… because they don’t know me like that.
So I’ve been at churches with celebrities before and it really didn’t faze me much. Most celebrities don’t faze me (would’ve probably fangirled a little bit if I had the opportunity to meet Whitney) and I’m going to church just to experience church. I think another layer is that people really don’t comprehend that celebrities and public figures are people who have a variety of days. I like the idea of giving y’all a separate space to just exist in your fullness & to worship without having to be ‘on’ and extroverted
I’m part of the 3% who don’t care if there’s vip section.I’ve seen celebrities in service before but I’m not one to ask for a picture or anything like that because they’re a person too and they might not want that.and online experience is not the same at all as being in service In person.
“I already had it. He didn’t have anything to kill, steal, destroy, or distract me from. Make sure you know what you have cause what you have he’s coming for!” listen you were definitely playing but THAT WILL PREACH!! Okay let me keep listening
Apology accepted... 😁 After a rough day sometimes all we need is absolute silence, giving somebody that space 'to be' is the greatest gift sometimes. A little bit of encouragement? It depends... 😂
If you want to do R&B do it. God doesn’t put these limitations on you. You do mostly out of fear (especially fear of what others will think and say). But you have to go where the inspiration (the Holy Spirit) leads you. Trust me the desire won’t go away. And what will end up happening is you will lose inspiration and purpose (causing you to feel unfulfilled and depressed) if you don’t follow it. Don’t put yourself in a limited box. It will k1ll you creatively. When God wants to level you up (or elevate you), He will make you uncomfortable. Because He has to take you outside of your comfort zone (the familiar that is k1lling you internally) in order to develop you. You have to embrace the challenge (no matter how afraid you are). You have to trust that He has you (and this is hard to do…trust me I know this first hand). God is leading you into learning and developing new skills, being able to adapt to new situations, and also enhancing your personal growth (all while strengthening your faith and trust in Him in the process).
This podcast is hilarious😂😂😂 I am in the 3% who agree with the church having a VIP section. The church I attend is known to have VIPs come through and I remember my Pastor telling us to let them worship and do not ask for autographs and pictures especially during service. He made it very clear that Jesus Christ was the only superstar in the building. I understand that celebrities are human too and need time with God just like we do. Also if you ever come to The Mount, the hospitality and accommodations for special guests is always exceptional.
I can't even imagine what would have happened if former Pres. Obama and family had not been ushered in- and out as well as seated with security when he spoke for Fathers' Day at my former church. Sometimes VIP is necessary. Unfortunately, everyone isn't mature enough to leave folks alone at the house.
Honestly, we never can tell people's situation when we try forcing a smile out of them but that line of encouragement would do better
These discussions are good, thank you!!
I am really enjoying this Podcast. I think you are very down to earth, intelligent and one of the best singers of all time and I will be 73 on April 11th. I will be at the Dallas Concert.
I'm just laughing at how Brunos is laughing at 'Brunos wept'.😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
I let Mariah Carey be when she came to my church in NY but I think that's because I'm from Barbados and we generally don't freak out about celebrities. Also, it was because our church was kinda used to celebrities visiting. With oour Pastor being a former Congressman and our MD being well known in the music industry, at least for me, it became a lil normalized to see famous people
This is indeed a complex issue that many growing churches face, and your insight sheds light on the challenges we encounter. As someone who serves in a large church and interacts with various members, including having relationships with some of the celebrities / influencers, I understand the delicate balance we strive for in fostering unity among all believers.
It's evident that there's a tension between the inclusivity we aim for and the discomfort that arises when certain individuals receive what's perceived as special treatment. While I empathize with those in leadership roles navigating these dynamics, I believe it's crucial for us to address this issue head-on.
Ultimately, I feel like as brothers and sisters in Christ, we should ALL be striving for genuine fellowship and worship without the hindrance of social hierarchies. This requires intentional leadership that fosters a culture of humility, inclusivity, and seeing each other through the lens of God, where every member feels valued and respected regardless of their status or background. Most importantly, we have to make sure that we are fighting against our human desire to idolize man, and that means not doing church in a way that further adds to that idolization.
Navigating this in a mega-church context poses unique challenges, particularly concerning the influx of non-members and people with ill intentions. Ensuring everyone feels safe and welcomed while maintaining the integrity of our community is paramount. It's imperative that we actively seek solutions rather than passively accepting the status quo.
Again, ultimately, our goal should be to break down barriers that hinder authentic worship and fellowship, allowing all individuals to freely engage in the faith community without feeling marginalized or excluded. Let's continue to prayerfully work towards this ideal, trusting in God's guidance as we navigate these complexities together.
This was rich. I was happy to close my mouth and over active mind and listen. The part about the VIP was delivered with substance. I have heard the topic being discussed before and my initial thought was there should not be any favoritism in God's house. But, when Jonathan dissected the matter and Brunes interjected the what ifs, I have to agree with Jonathan about equity. Equity in ministry is grace on display. I salute you gentlemen for using your platform to minister relatably in a nontraditional way. Sometime we just need to talk and unpack and let glory flow.
That equality vs equity example was spot on to explain why separate spaces are needed for VIPs. If we’re grading podcasts, I’m giving both an A+! 👏🏽🙌🏽
POWERFUL VIDEO, AMEN POWERFUL VOICE, AMEN POWERFUL PREACHING, AMEN POWERFUL WORDS, AMEN HALLELUJAH GLORY TO GOD ✝️ 🙏 🙌 👏
I personally love your dry humor Jon. This was a very interesting and insightful conversation about church VIPs. I learned alot. 😊❤
Let’s BE FOR REAL. People absolutely DO NOT know how to leave people alone. If people could leave people alone, allow them to listen to a service, not sneak pics and videos of them then sure, there is no need for VIP,, but people DO NOT know how to let people be. If I was dealing with something internally I would be so annoyed if someone was video taping me or tapping me while I’m trying to worship and listen to the message
Lord i wanna thank you for what you've, and i wont let anyone take it away..
Y’all have done it again!! I loved this episode!
What got me laughing was the confidence that came after the several doubts when answering the second question. Why do we do that🤣🤣?
I grapple with this topic. I understand your perspective, and I actually don’t care if there is a VIP section. I have a son with special needs, so we attend a church that makes Jesus and an experience accessible to him. I get it from that perspective. And I also wonder if part of the struggle is setting boundaries and having to tell people no. This is something I think all people struggle with, as we don’t want to let people down or disappoint them. It’s a privilege to be able to avoid this human experience, as a celebrity that everyone is not afforded. No right or wrong: just another lens to view the topic
the way you licked and smack them lips ….. are you trying to get me to smile or convince me to try so barbecue wings 🤣🤣🤣😆
I love that point of view about why you want to have the vip section because you want to feel human and normal amongst regular people. My 1st thought was about feeling safe to go somewhere because some fans can be crazy like obsessed but at the same time, your main reason why.
I enjoyed this so much! Luv U Johnathan and I TRULY ENJOYED YOU ALL LAST NITE AT THE OUR HALLELUJAH TOUR IN RVA❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🙌🏽
Shuuu! That's so good Jon! "We chose to be excellence in what we did." Love that! I can't imagine... Sympathising with you!
Lol.. that was really good! Looking forward to the next one. You and Brunes are a good team.🎉 Jonathan, you are so loved because you are godly, intelligent and wise, keep it real, competitive, challenge common thinking, and hilariously funny without trying to be. ❤
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 so enjoyable to watch. Loved every minute of it. Looking forward to the next one
Not smiling doesn’t = mean tho. Nobody walks around smiling all the time. We don’t owe anyone a smile, it’s a gift.
Completely agree with you re: VIP secton.
Celebrities are human just like everyone else ... it's not fair that they have to be "on" all the time.
The podcast is great! Thanks for shedding some light on just wanting to he regular. As a fan, we don't think about if you want to bothered or not when we see you in person. So the next time I see you in person I'll wave from a distance and not come to you expecting you to want to take a picture lol 👋🏽
I had me some good laughs listening to this in my car.😁 And im happy you doing some unpacking. Its rough out here for us introverts! Thank you! 😂😂
Another point for the VIP section: In addition to special guest being a distraction, it may also pose a security risk depending on the size of the church, number of people rushing your way, etc. Also not all people who visit a church have the best intentions. You could have some stalkers (or worse) in the pews as well.
wait i actually love this podcast 😂😭
Yall are such a dope mix!!! I'm here for it!!
We are mindful of you both, love this podcast keep it coming. Loving your humour 😂
This was a great episode guys! Very entertaining. Keep it up!
Look im already to excited! 😂😂
Absolutely nothing wrong with church VIP section. Totally with everything you said. Easy entrance exit all that logistics and security also play a part. I get it especially for those that want to JUST partake of the service have a role in service .
Some places just go wayyyyy overboard. And abuse it use it as something else .
But this was hilarious 😂 y’all funny .
I love this. You
and PT have to do one
This podcast is really great!! Keep up the good work gentlemen!!
Loving that sermon called "The Letter E- You Already Had It" ❤
I thoroughly enjoyed this show
God bless everyone 🙏🏾😇
lmfbooo on the smile part. Great podcast ! 👌🏾✨
I love your theme song lol ! Great video. The enemy is so annoying, always coming to kill, steal, and destroy. I agree, I am going to be confident and get what is mine. The enemy is not taking it this time.
Jonathan, you are funny!!! The best hotels have tasty snack bars in each suite. I agree that you & your Team should have QUALITY ROOM SERVICE.
It’s the insincere apology for me😂 I love this podcast situ, really humanizes you!!✌🏾
Brothers, what are you doing with your lips?! 😂 The words and a smile from y'all are enough, k? 😊
I love love this because we get to get to know more about you and see how funny you are.😂😂
I love love this, thank you Sir McReynolds and Sir Brunes😊.
16 hours....countdown 😊. I'm ready for it!
I was definitely yelling Mr potato head at the tv!
So as a woman that often gets told to smile - I smile out of being polite but I truly hate being told to smile lol
1. I am a deep thinker and I be in my head. 2. It’s annoying for the same reason you said it was annoying. I don’t want to perform for anyone. I just wanna present myself as I am without being held to an expectation.
If a man did all that lip smacking I’d laugh in his face lol
Ohkay Brunus,I'll smile 😢you're making me melt 😅
And "3%" I'm one of those people who will pretend not know the celebrity when they show up in church, cause the eyes of my understanding are enlightened ,I can't afford to be distracted in church cz I love taking notes and focus 🙌
Love the equality and equity comparison ❤👏🏽
I'm super very excited
I'm with YOU Jonathan ... I KNEW it was the letter E! 😂😂😂
I enjoyed this. I always wondered how “celebrities” or those who have a high level of fame/spotlight, felt coming into church. I see people “fan out” is what I call it. To me, i definitely view yall as human who’s gift/occupation has them in the spotlight doesn’t mean yall want to be treated as such even in the church house. That’s just my opinion though.
I'm so excited
READY LETS GO!!
Very nice episode! and Thanks for the apology! cant tell you how many times in a week I get told to smile by somebody's uncle or granddaddy...
Also, Idk if its just my computer, but the music audio in the transitions bleeds through, which I assume is intentional... but its kinda loud friend... at least at first. i always have to turn it down, but then i miss the first few tidbits of each conversation lol Dont change it if yall like it, I just wasnt sure if anyone had mentioned it. if its just me, ill be quiet*Smokie from Friday voice*
"There is no hint" 😂
This was really good! 👍🏾
I would've guessed Cabbage Patch Dolls instead of Mr. Potato Head lol😂
My first thought was Barbie but when he said veggie, I knew it 😂
Thank you Mr. McReynolds
🤔Good Point🤔
My opinion is that we, as Christians, should not idolize. I know we're not perfect, but we're there for the word of God, if a celebrity walks in for service, we as a congregation should not be paying attention to them instead if the word. I completely see your point of view though. It makes sense.
I agree with you wholeheartedly I wish I could have communicated it in this same way.
Loved it!
I Enjoyed the podcast.
Please don’t tell me to smile….. I will tell you that I am happy and don’t judge a book by its cover. I hate when people tell me to smile… because they don’t know me like that.
Smile is annoying when nothings wrong 😂😂trying to holla 💀
I’m answering the genius segments like it’s jeopardy
So I’ve been at churches with celebrities before and it really didn’t faze me much. Most celebrities don’t faze me (would’ve probably fangirled a little bit if I had the opportunity to meet Whitney) and I’m going to church just to experience church.
I think another layer is that people really don’t comprehend that celebrities and public figures are people who have a variety of days. I like the idea of giving y’all a separate space to just exist in your fullness & to worship without having to be ‘on’ and extroverted
About vip, you can say that because you are the superstar, you've experienced it and you are still experiencing it. But am in your side.
it would be fun if someone played against Jonathan for the genius questions ☺️
I’m part of the 3% who don’t care if there’s vip section.I’ve seen celebrities in service before but I’m not one to ask for a picture or anything like that because they’re a person too and they might not want that.and online experience is not the same at all as being in service In person.
“I already had it. He didn’t have anything to kill, steal, destroy, or distract me from. Make sure you know what you have cause what you have he’s coming for!” listen you were definitely playing but THAT WILL PREACH!! Okay let me keep listening
He's like but when am I supposed to eat??
Brunes was just Mac in.....😮😂 #smile
Apology accepted... 😁 After a rough day sometimes all we need is absolute silence, giving somebody that space 'to be' is the greatest gift sometimes. A little bit of encouragement? It depends... 😂
Preach Minister Jon
"kinda weird at times word" 🤣🤣
😂😂 Amazing Uncle Jon. The themes songs fire tho
Preach it daddy 🤣🤣
I love you ❤️💜
Is that a grill uncle Jonny? I see you Chicagorilla😂
LIVING FAITH CHRISTIAN CENTER 2323 ROUTE 73 PENNSAUKEN, NJ 08110 AMEN HALLELUJAH, GLORY TO GOD ✝️ 🙏 🙌 👏
You & Brunis are like Johnny Carson & Ed.
🤔Jesus went into the wilderness or on the mountain to get a regular church experience 🤔 A popular guy🤔
If you want to do R&B do it. God doesn’t put these limitations on you. You do mostly out of fear (especially fear of what others will think and say). But you have to go where the inspiration (the Holy Spirit) leads you. Trust me the desire won’t go away. And what will end up happening is you will lose inspiration and purpose (causing you to feel unfulfilled and depressed) if you don’t follow it. Don’t put yourself in a limited box. It will k1ll you creatively.
When God wants to level you up (or elevate you), He will make you uncomfortable. Because He has to take you outside of your comfort zone (the familiar that is k1lling you internally) in order to develop you. You have to embrace the challenge (no matter how afraid you are). You have to trust that He has you (and this is hard to do…trust me I know this first hand). God is leading you into learning and developing new skills, being able to adapt to new situations, and also enhancing your personal growth (all while strengthening your faith and trust in Him in the process).
Jon you better preach ! 15:38
Brunes is low key a menace lol 🤣😂
This was hi-la-ri-ous 😂😂😂. Love it.
I’m a genius too I guessed them before Jon did 🙌🏾👏🏾👏🏾 😂😂 woohoo
I feel liiiike…he don’t be asking Jon the right questions to showcase his genius!! 😂 And tried to play him on the 3rd one!
🤣🤣🤣 Jonathan my beloved
LOL Jonathan the Mensa card is outdated. Check the expiry date on it.
Y'all gotta watch videos of LL Cool J and his lips to get pointers 😂😂😂
Yall was looking like you were in a 90s video with all lip stuff.
This podcast is hilarious😂😂😂
I am in the 3% who agree with the church having a VIP section. The church I attend is known to have VIPs come through and I remember my Pastor telling us to let them worship and do not ask for autographs and pictures especially during service. He made it very clear that Jesus Christ was the only superstar in the building. I understand that celebrities are human too and need time with God just like we do. Also if you ever come to The Mount, the hospitality and accommodations for special guests is always exceptional.
The Mount in Chesapeake(?), VA?
Yes
I can't even imagine what would have happened if former Pres. Obama and family had not been ushered in- and out as well as seated with security when he spoke for Fathers' Day at my former church. Sometimes VIP is necessary. Unfortunately, everyone isn't mature enough to leave folks alone at the house.
I love this !!😂
A word in season 😂❤
Thank you 🙏🏽😂
❤❤🎉
I don't like sitting in the VIP section, but I am ok with the VIP section.
I thought the 4/5 star hotels had better security 😅