“Don’t be culturally competitive while remaining spiritually bankrupt.”
This is a quote that popped up in my Twitter feed as I watched the series premiere of “Thicker than Water” a reality show that documents the prosperous yet problem-filled lives of the Tankards. The quote was attributed to Rev. William Curtis, pastor of Mt. Ararat Baptist Church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania but I don’t think the tweet came as a response to the show although it came at just the right time.
“Thicker than Water,” the Tankard family from left to right: Britney, Cyrene, Jewel, Ben, Brooklyn, Benji, Shinara (Photo Credit: Bravo TV)
If the name Tankard sounds familiar it is because you probably own some of Ben Tankard’s music. He’s been called “the Quincy Jones of gospel music” specializing primarily in instrumental arrangements as well as producing other gospel artists. On “Thicker than Water” he is the father to a blended family of five children he likens to “The Black Brady Bunch,” a husband to a wife who is in love with money as much as he is, the pastor of the Destiny Center Church located in Murfeesboro, Tennessee, and an overall braggart about his wealth. Tankard is a true rags to riches story and isn’t afraid to tell it. Having experienced poverty at a young age and also homelessness when an injury threatened his promising NBA career, Tankard seems determined never to taste the bitter gall of poverty. As he says, “I’ve been poor, now I’m rich. Trust me, rich is better.” But it seems that riches have become the god of him and his wife–Jewel–and this is shown most clearly within the first five minutes of the show:
“The first time that I realized that God wanted us to be rich, I was a senior in college and I saw this phenomenal man and woman of God standing up and preaching the word of God and honey, wasn’t nothing broke about them! I said, “Oh Lord, this is the Jesus that I know.” Jewel Tankard
“You are supposed to dominate in life and certainly be a millionaire.” Ben Tankard
“We serve a God who is all about the bling in heaven. There’s no ghetto section of heaven.” Ben Tankard
“If I had to take a vow of poverty I would have never gotten saved.” Jewel Tankard
Tankard is a prosperity gospel preacher in the truest sense, telling his congregation they are meant to dominate and be millionaires. He also teaches this millionaire philosophy to his children and seems to be more interested in making them materially rich rather than spiritually rich. But all that glitters isn’t gold for the Tankards and the first show reveals some hints of the spiritual bankruptcy that is looming over the large family.
Brooklyn, Ben’s daughter from a previous marriage, holds no punches as an embittered daughter watching her father spoil and dote on her little sister Cyrene. For example, instead of supporting Brooklyn in her first marathon run, Ben and Jewel stayed home to document Cyrene getting ready for prom. Brooklyn watches Cyrene get rights and privileges that she never had growing up and she unabashedly shows her bitterness toward the loving father-daughter relationship she sees between Ben and Cyrene.
Cyrene is a classic baby of the family. She knows what to do to get what she wants and Ben and Jewel spoil her because of this. Of course this is all unfolding before Brooklyn’s eyes—because she lives at home with the Tankards along with her 10-year-old daughter Diamond. Brooklyn attributes her teen pregnancy and legal troubles—she ran an illegal strip joint that lead to her arrest—to her absent father. The dynamic between Brooklyn and Ben seems to be a promising storyline that may show America how a daughter reconciles with her previously prodigal father.
Benji, the only boy in the Tankard clan, appears to be a college dropout. A previous success story whom received a track scholarship to go to college, Benji partied too hard and had to leave school. Now he is back at home with the family—and his wife—trying to get a fresh start. Benji has dreams of becoming a millionaire like his father yet it doesn’t seem clear that he is doing anything substantial to get there.
Britney is the only Tankard—aside from Brooklyn—who seems determined not to subscribe to her family’s millionaire philosophy and lifestyle. She holds down a job, seems rather self-sufficient, and is closest to Brooklyn. We don’t know much about her backstory but I’m sure it will be revealed as the season goes forward.
Within the show’s first hour the Tankard’s paint the picture of a rich and happy family–or at least how they perceive rich and happy families to be. Mr. and Mrs. Tankard go shopping for jet planes like the average American goes shopping for a car. The Tankard family gathers together dressed in white and khaki to play croquette in the backyard. Cyrene, the Tankard baby, has a dreamboat boyfriend who looks like a black Ken doll and brings flowers to the family BBQ as he prepares to ask her to go to prom with him. Jewel Tankard arises each morning to recite a Billionaire Confession because, in her words, “I am already a millionairess, I am trying to become a billionairess.” They do well to fit into Bravo’s mold of rich reality television-ready families but they do nothing to fit into the mold of a Godly family. There, I said it.
Last night the Tankards joined the ranks of Bravo reality television families who are more concerned with maintaining fortune and B-level fame than they are of doing something fruitful with their time. They looked no different than the “Real Housewives of _________,” “The Shahs of Sunset,” “Vanderpump Rules,” and “The New Atlanta.” I have no qualms with the aforementioned shows and their respective casts pimping themselves out for a dollar because they aren’t champions for any cause other than their self-glorification. Nene and them have no responsibility to “stand out” because they’ve made no declaration of being sold out for Christ. But the Tankards, as a Christian family, headed by a preacher and psalmist of sorts of the gospel have a different responsibility. Their responsibility is to be a witness to God’s goodness in this world and that has very little to do with material wealth. If God’s goodness is reduced to how much God blesses people financially, then God is only blessing a few people while the rest of us are living outside of the blessing. God’s blessings are deeper than our pockets, don’t believe the Tankards or any prosperity gospel hype.
Revisiting the Rev. William Curtis’s quote from earlier, the Tankards have now positioned themselves as cultural competitors who are on the verge of becoming spiritually bankrupt. They have seemingly traded being champions for Christ in the public eye for being champions of wealth and adoration of people. This adoration isn’t even for the work that they do for God–which is something we could argue the “Preachers of LA” do; it is adoration because of what they believe God has given them, wealth and riches. They have crossed into the territory of worshipping and glorifying the gifts instead of the giver and I fear that they don’t even know it. But this is all just from a first impression, the impression that we claim is the most important. For the Tankard’s sake, let’s hope they use the second episode and the season at large to leave a better impression.
I always try to give reality shows at least 2 views of the show before I give my personal opinion of it due to edititng. However I was not impressed with the 1st episode of Thicker Than Water. I think the Tankards portrayed that they were more interested in their wealth than how they represented God. Please don’t forget who is the person responsible for your wealth and success and give honor where it is due which is unto God!
You’re being too kind. This show is a HOT ASS MESS!! God doesn’t like to be mocked and to be mocked by hethens is one thing but to be mocked by his own people is a slap in his face. So sad.
I watch the housewives on Bravo and when I seen the previews of Thicker Than Water I was totally disgusted. I will not ever watch that show. It is a disgrace and should never have even been aired. To think that God is all about money and monetary things is sick and wrong. I hope that this show will be cancelled and the so-called preacher and his greed will be forgiven and the producers who ever gave this show a second thought. I am totally appalled to think that this show was ever produced. When there are people starving and homeless… how WRONG!!!!!
i watch the show i support ben he is a friend and a mentor and i am in love with his daughter so i have asked to work for him for seven years for her hand like jabob did for rachel. in eclle 1019 it clearlysatateds that money answers all things we get caught up thinking god does not want us to have that is a n old salve mentality the god you worship the church you attend to day is based on slave methodalogially to keep you subjugate and submissive the true god, allah gives wealth to his children so they may bless others read more than the bible and pls remember it was translatedby man who put his own spin on the gospels , study other religions to get the whole truth.
Amen to that I thought I was the only one who thought this way!!! One episode I was blown away when Mrs. Tankard had a class on wealth concerning households income is a hundred thousand. Really though what world are they living in smh this is the example that we are setting for the black church. It’s so sad to watch this show no examples of of the Love of God is set forth but the love of money is and how can you say that you are a minister and not lift the father up. This show is a hot mess and a disgrace to our black churches or any churches for that matter. In addition this would have been a great opportunity to minister to lost souls. Unfortunately they have miss the mark. I’m still waiting for them to lift The Lord up and not their wealth. just saying!!!!!
Please can someone tell me what this show is about, I cannot believe Bravo would put this TRASH on TV first of all Ben Tankers;s wife is a “HOT ASS MESS” with all of her dollars what is up with her weave a damn mess!!!!!! This junk needs to be taken off TV immediately I truly HATE THIS SHOW, they are truly a poor example of the Black American Family! Also when Ben is preaching does it appear that the people in the audience are extras!!!!!!!!!!!! your thoughts!
I wouldn’t give these clowns the time of day, they are a disgrace to God and all God’s true Believer. If we study God Word Matthew 7: 15 you would have known what that mess was about.
This show is full if BS. God wants faithful followers that are willing to give up luxuries. This family, full of BS.
Are you kidding me?? This show is HORRIBLE!! I’m convinced God is guna come and tear this earth up because people have completely lost their minds. Now people are just making a joke of God, people act like he isn’t real anymore, People arent afraid of his wrath anymore. I’m just OVER IT. You can play with lots of things but WHAT YOU DON’T DO is play with God. I’m so tired of these fake ass preachers, bishops and gospel artists. They all make me sick to my stomach!! #THAT’SALL
I think this show is a disgrace and I won`t be watching it. The show make my stomach hurt and I betcha with all their money they have hungry and needy people in their congregation giving their last to your ministry for you to live in the lap of luxury…
They are an embarrassment to our community. There are so many Godly preachers in our town that this family will have many doubting the good they want to do. I am not jealous of those that can make money but flaunting it inn the manner they do is just wrong.
Not impressed!!!! The wife sickened me when she stood before the mirror praying on her stocks, bonds, real estate and other material assets and didn’t once pray for anyone else. According to the Internet they only have a net worth of $5 million. That’s not rich! Lets look at them 5 years from now to see if they are still millionaires. I won’t be watching this show!
then what is 5 million shes a millionare why u hating
not the point. she can be a millionaire, sure. But for them to be spending the way they do, you would think that they would have a net worth a little higher than 5 million. Also, they ARE disgracing God’s word. Now, I’m no perfect Christian by any means. But as said earlier, she prays for her stocks, money, and other material things. Not once have I seen her express concern about anyone else. It’s sickening, and they are selfish people.
5 million is not low
I agree totally! God is not to be mocked!!
5 million you get fivve mil then holla back all these haters man really
People perish for a lack of knowledge! Please believe this…not only is God a loving God but He is also a consuming fire! He is not to be mocked! We Christians are suppose to judge other Christians of the faith. read, Read, read! Just because they are rich doesn’t make them wealthy! I’m wealthy not monetarily but because I have Christ and He supplies all of my needs according to his riches and Glory! If He does nothing else for me, He has already done more than enough! I’m blessed and my seed is blessed! I don’t have to give my children money for their lives to be rich. I’ve given them Christ and that will take them farther that anything in this realm!! I could care less how much money they have. What I care about is the manner in which they include God in their lives! When we know better we are to do better!
Nicole, you are too kind. Ben Tankard’s abuse and misuse of Scripture is abysmal. If ever a family were in need of divine intervention it is the Tankards. The carnality, arrogance and godless display of wealth is shameful. Ben showing off his “leased” trickets at the expense of his family is sinful and shameful while the bedroom antics and sexual remarks in church are distasteful. NOTHING about this show promotes the kingdom of God. ***Reaching for the Remote***
Hey i feel like you guys think yall are better than others but what not be confide,thankful,loving,careful, and caution to those who are nice peace.
They’re not flaunting their wealth, they’re capiltalizing on ‘rented’ assets on mainstream television to incur wealth. For a greater source of income, recognition and future potential endorsements? BRAVO is the solution. Not much different from rap entertainers who rent jewlelry, cars and women on the set of a music video with the increasing possibilities of selling records.`These individuals are paupers from Mufreesboro, TN. The slice of bread (no hot dog bread) with the hot dog was proof of it! The psuedo house manager was proof of it, the value of the house was proof of it, The lack of education, class, pedigree, and humiliating disposition of this family was proof of it. The touch of Christianity was just a twist of exuberance. While entertaining and comical at its best, I would just simply take it with a grain of salt. This is ratchet TV everyone, not your congregations. No need to begin preaching on this site.
Sorry Ms.Symmonds,but I would’nt hold my breath waiting for some improvement among the Tankards in the second season,if they even get there.Their family is the very definition of what is known in theology as”cultural christianity”,a man-centered pseudo-christian construct in which what is conceived as “god”is a quasi-theological chimera actually made in our image;a”god”that we’ve invented to cater to OUR felt needs,which usually center around what the world-at-large deems important.In the interest of full disclosure,I myself have never seen this show(I don’t have cable),but your analysis and the comments said it all.Beside,those of us who actually”rightly divide”the Word of God aren’t surprised;Scripture prophesied people like the Tankards and those of their ilk would arise within the Body of Christ,so…Pray for them,and just change the channel!!
When I watched the show I could not finish it. I turned the channel. The only thing that came to mind was the scripture…in Mark 10:25 For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter into the Kingdom of a God! If ever we needed to pray, it is now…we are in the last days and it is written that theses things will happen…who shall be able to stand? Who will endure to the end?
This show is the epitome of distaste. This family should be donating money to their congregation or some organization in need. The greed and lust for money is prevalent in this show and it is sad that the Tankards fail to see their own vanity. I am not a religious individual, but I am in the process of opening my mind to embrace aspects religion. This show would certainly add fuel to the fire for an individual who is under the impression that this family represents all people who have acquired wealth in this business. Thicker than Water was truly disappointing. Even the song that played before the church scene said, “I praise God for my money.” Really?
They donate money to organization as a matter of fact, they are donate money to a Domestic Violence so before you talk, research. And this is entertainment; they do more than what is portrayed on tv.. How I know my sister is Jewel Tankard’s Personal Assistant. Have A Nice Day!
I enroy the show. I have read the reviews. Come on GOD’s people. Let;s not hate. Like one ofh the sista’s stated, we must pray for everyone including the Tankard Family. I love, love the show. Don’t hate because GOD has blessed them. Just like the sister stated that her sister is Jewel Tankards’s Personal Assistant, television does not portray everything this family does. You all should know that. Pray for your harvest, continue to do your tithe and offerings and give of your talents. You must have missed the scene where Pastor Tankard asked people in the congegation, “How many people need a $100.00” From what I can see, not everyone raised their hands. The very words that you are speaking on this family is returning back to you all. You must not put your mouth on God’s anointed people. You all should know that. If you can say anything nice, then don’t say anything at ALL. Keep your negative comments to yourself. Better yet, the Tankard Family is prayed up, so you know what, No weapon formed against them shall prosper. So keep on speaking negative things about this family. You will not will succeed in life, because you are going to be the ones without nothing. This family prayed and God has blessed Pastor Tankard. There is nothing wrong with having lots of money. It is the intent behind it. Pastor Ben stated that he wants to bless his family and the community. Furthermor, speak blessings into your life and speak prosperity into life too! If you had the money, you would not be saying anything to this magnitude about this family. You are right God is not mocked, but GOD word does not return void, but it word goes out and accomplishes what it is intended to do. So speak life into your lives and not death. Read the entire book of Deuteronomy and learn of the blessings and the curses that God has spoke about. When you speak the word of God and your affirmations, it does come to pass. Delight yourself in the Lord and HE will give you the desires of your heart. Pastor Tankard and his wife Jewel are blessing others and that is the reason why they are blessed. Furthermore, Pastor Tankard stated that he was poor and he did not like it. However, he didn’t sit fumbling his thumbs. He did something about that made him millions. So you all that are hating, do something about your circumstances, as God will surely bless you too. You can have whatever you want. All you have to do is ask GOD. He said He WILL GIVE IT TO YOU,
Oh shut up ! You sound/write as if you are apart of that messy fam. These so called pastors/preachers are doing nothing but pimping you followers..
Can you explain how the congregation is being “pimped” when the pastors don’t receive a salary from the church? If everyone who has posted here were TRUE christians then they would not judge others especially when its based on edited filming that has been cut and pasted to give the producer of the show the direction he or she intended. I would also presume that most of the replies here are from African Americans and we seem to have such hatred when we see the possibility of another African American do well financially. I have a bachelors in psychology and make a very nice salary and wish the Tankards much success. One of the greatest gifts God gave us was the ability to make choices and therefore you can choose not to watch the show.
Hello to you all that say we christians are not to judge. The bible says Christians are supposed to,judge other Christians in the faith.. We are not to judge those who do not believe because they don’t know better!! We as Christians should no better therefore it is our duty as Christians to correct us when do wrong!! People perish from a lack of knowledge! That’s bible… Start ferreting the word which means to search out for yourself what the word says verses parroting the word which is merely just repeating what you heard someone else say!!
Thank you. We’ll said. Ppl hv too much time on their hands..stop the hating. I like the show. Apparently all these negative opinions doesn’t hurt their pockets. We’re all Gods children and we’re all different
Hello Jewel’s assistant please do not get offended by what everyone is saying we don’t know them personally we just know what was shown on tv and from what we see it is extremely distasteful and spiritually offensive. If you watch the show back you would be offended too and if you are not then you agree with what is being shown.
Girl Bye this show has to Go! Personal assistant? Where is she on the show. I font care how much they give. Money doesn’t equal class.
Dag. I used to actually enjoy some of Ben Tankard’s music (although comparing him to Quincy Jones is absolutely ridiculous), but this review confirms some of my suspicions from afar. *sigh*
I just want to know —why you think you will be getting into heaven as a “preacher” doing what you do ..
I guarentee the people getting into heaven do not have a million dollar home or a 70,000 dollar car …you know what they have— family, friends, n god — something you are obviosly are lacking! Enjoy your moment of fame because when it ends without your family you truely have nothing!!!”
Thanks Nicole for this well written article. I agree with your feelings about the show for the most part and I actually heard Rev. William H. Curtis say that exact quote when he visited my church, Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church in Philadelphia this past October for our annual fall revival.
Anyway, time will reveal that “all that glitters is not gold” just based on the previews of the show. We all know how God works. He can use a show like this to draw people to Christ. Thicker than Water is still a hook and by it being on Bravo, the show has a large impact and reach. I think we will be surprised as it unfolds. It almost reminds me of the 2012 documentary, The Queen of Versailles, which was initially filmed for one purpose as a rags to riches story and completely made a 365 degree turn and became a riches to rag story. I certainly do not wish that fate on the Tankards. I am going to continue to watch the show and “not judge” the Tankards. I am hopeful that true life lessons and real christian values will eventually manifest from this show. Let’s pray!…lol
This show is deplorable and needs to be taken off the air!!
I am offended to watch this clown emphasize wealth when he
Is doing nothing more than demonstrating how to be spiritually bankrupt
by keeping your eyes in materialism. Tankard is not my idea of a Pastor and his
family and their values are REALLY sad.
We look just a like Brooklyn and i!!!
Just from seeing the coming attractions, I could tell it was TRASH. Me and my family will not be watching or even discussing it with anyone in hopes of eliminating their curiousity about possibly watching it.
I stumbled upon this show incidentally and was immediately taken aback by the braggadocio-us tone of it. I have no reason to wish ill of this family because I’d never heard of them. However, I don’t understand the point of it being on. No, being rich through whatever means besides exploitation of others is no crime or sin, but flaunting wealth for the sake of a reality show is lacking in class and good taste! Moreover, the personalities of these people is vacuous at best.
As a new creature in Christ, I do not appreciate Pastor’s straying from their anointed position which is to bring the multitude to the the shepherd. Jesus was angered in the temple when it was turned into a buyer’s den and likewise some of these so-called Pastors are doing the same thing. Money is not the problem; it is the LOVE of money that sickens the viewers of this man and his family. So what if he gives to charity. He has to shelter his money some kind of way or pay it out in taxes. Had he earned his money in any other business outside the church we would not have such criticism, but he pimping the name of my Lord and Savior and that makes me angry. Then he puts it out there for whole world to see. Jewel’s asst., as angry as you are that we are calling them out, is how angry we are that they have chosen to use our God to glorify their lifestyle and themselves. What you have to realize is that Satan is also a giver of gifts and he also wants your soul, but his is not a reward to come, it is a penalty of eternal damnation. They’ve made their choice and I’ll pray for their soul to be renewed in Christ.
You will know them by their fruits. Look at what this family worships & their fruits. A string of failed relationships & marriages; broken embittered adult children who have been raised to believe that the dollar comes before everything even to the point that they are wiling to run an illegal strip club to earn that dollar; adult children who cannot provide for themselves & their families; a daughter who seems to have acted out when she missed the love of her father because his first priority was the dollar & the list goes on & on. I was shocked to hear how Tankard talked about his past marriages – those women are still the mothers of his children & the youngest daughter appears to have no relationship with her bio dad. All that glitters ain’t gold & if you look past the facade they are reaping what they are sowing.
Are you for real. This show is a mockery in the worst way. I tried to look at it today, to see if anything had changed.,but once again everyone is bragging about their cars etc..I’m happy to see anyone have money, if you work hard you can succeed. Let’s leave god out of it. Maybe it’s how the show is edited, but i won’t waste anymore of my time watching it.
As a Christian, I like the show. Ben already stated that he didn’t consider himself a Preacher. It seems to me that he edifies more than he preaches. We have so many Pastors who fleece the sheep. They drain congregations of time and money and won’t even get a job. This couple goes to work, AND they help feed the poor. The way they talked about money initially was a turn off but as I watched it,’I saw the household dynamic. They aren’t fake and arrogant. They are funny and Ben is doing his best to blend a family that he left. I commend him on that. The youngest
daughter isnt his and he isn’t running out on his family. They deal with real life
issues and they stick together even at the worst of times.
So many religious people try to hide their outside kids and act
So Holy, and fake~ yet the Tankarts aren’t afraid to be transparent enough to help the rest of us out by showing us practical ways to raise our children and
blend our families. His wife has one daughter, but she is there supporting those kids and she has HER OWN money. If they brag so what, because they go through alot of hurt and pain. I will continue to watch the show. I bet we all tune in to SCANDAL though don’t we?
Because you put this show on the same scale as Scandal is all the more reason, we Christians should not watch this foolery. This show should never be compared to the worldly ones but the fact that it is, makes me pray even harder. How can we win souls into the Kingdom without having a Kingdom mindset? How can you say it’s ok for them to brag when God clearly tells us to humble ourselves in all things?? He is the one who gives, therefore it is He that should get the praise and Glory!! When we know better, we are to do better!! We are in this world but not of it!
From “The Sisterhood” to “Thicker than Water” BRAVO TVand satan have done it again!
Saints! Let’s love the people and hate the devil. It seems like with the assistance of the BRAVO network… the devil is doing a hell of a job (no pun intended) making a mockery of the church in the last days we live in.
None of us are perfect, including myself, so lets not waste our time talking about the people on the shows. Let’s spend our time in warfare prayer. Making sure that the scheme of the evil one does not manifest a temporary victory.
As believers we all know who wins in the end… but if the devil can use these shows to lead just a few astray from the Kingdom of God… He most certainly will.
If you want to hate,,hate on satan and his demons,,, love on people,,, and pray that there will be some way if any that God will be glorified from this series.
from viewing the sisterhood. and a few episodes of this series. It’s obvious which side BRAVO is on spiritually. And as christian, even in media… we must not be unequally yoked with unbelievers.
Just pray.. don’t hate on the Tankards. Love them and watch them grow in the LORD.
Blessings
The saddest thing about these “Christian reality shows” is again, the fact that “reality shows” are edited to give a distorted view that portrays what the producers really think of their subjects. The other sad problem is the fact that the Christian faith–and Black Christians–are portrayed as just some more hypocritical Black-church-clowns who have no dignity and no real Christianity to speak of. Reality shows specialize in these dysfunctional families and could care less what damage they cause to the “subjects” of their shows. I wonder, has it ever occurred to this whole genre of “prosperity preachers” that the material blessings they have were meant to be shared with those who have not? Have they thought about the fact that, in most countries, Christians are DESPISED and POOR, and have no “wealth” in the American/Western European sense? All that “prosperity” means nothing when you watch loved ones die and pass into eternity…and we can’t take “prosperity” to either heaven or hell! Jesus still asks us today: “What will it profit a man to gain the whole world and to lose his soul?”
I stand in agreement! Blessings were never meant for us to hoard but share and bless others!!
May I simply quote what I feel is 3rd most important scripture in the BIBLE! ” AND THE MEEK SHALL IN HERIT THE EARTH”
I do NOT and SHALL not stand in judgement of the TANKARDS, But “MEEK”
God forgive
this family, because I seriously believe they know not what they are doing!
I really don’t know where to start, it just upset me that people always have negetive things to say about other’s I’m glad their showing that everyone has problems even the rich & saved, being saved does not mean you are prefect it means your living for the LORD, thank GOD he is not as judgemental as some of these people because I bet each & everyone of you has things in your life or family’s that you wouldn’t dare to show on tv, so I feel like they are a open book not FAKE!!!! So that’s okay because their human & I don’t know who is saved and PERFECT!
I absolutely agree. This is a real family with real family issues. They are not brushing things under the carpet for the caneras. In one of the aftershows Ben was asked why does he only preach about money and wealth…his response – “I preach about everything but those are the clips that the show chose to use.”
And as a man of God, he should not allow this. God is not to be mocked! When we know better, we are to do better! The show can’t record what is not being said!! People of God, we must stand for something or we will fall for anything. God tells us that we are to standout and be different! We are in this world but we are not to be of it!!
The show does have an angle….I do think the show needs to highlight some of the other things he preaches about.
That was a nice and respectable thing to say
Start at the begining; The book of Genesis. Read what God’s word is regarding “perfect”. Gen: 17:1~And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou PERFECT. (never to old to get it right huh?)
Research further from there by going to the authority of God’s own word (bible) and doing a search of the scriptures regarding being perfect. Samuel 22:33 ~God is my strength and power: and he maketh my way perfect. Samuel 22:31~As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him.
1st Kings 8:61~Let your heart therefore be perfect with the LORD our God, to walk in his statutes, and to keep his commandments, as at this day.
No, none of us are perfect in our own right or strength, but if the HOLY Spirit of the Almighty God is in us, it is HE that does the perfecting. Psa 138:8~The LORD will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O LORD, endureth for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands.
If we Love God, we will keep all of His commandments and his statues; Psa 19:7~The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.
By the way, there are ten principal commandments that were written on the tablets of stone, but there are more than just ten commandments.
Here are some scriptures that I will start you off with, and then you should go search read what God says Himself and left on record by His faithful servants for yourself so that I, nor any other person is telling you want to think. It is not our thoughts on Ben Tankard or anyone else that matters. God’s word is the ultimate authority on all things. While you are there, research the “fruits of the Spirit” vs the “fruits of the flesh”. Be a true berean and seek the full truth for God’s ways are not our ways and His thoughts are higher than our own.
Isa 55:8~For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
Isa 55:9~For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Job 1:8~ And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?
Psa 18:32~It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect.
Psa 37:37~Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace
Psa 101:2~I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.
Psa 101:6~Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me.
Psa 139:22~I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies.
Pro 2:21~For the upright shall dwell in the land, and the perfect shall remain in it.
Pro 11:5~The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness
Why should you research this for yourself is found in Hosea 4:6
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children”.
When you stand on His word, nothing else matter!! Thank you for your response! People for so long parrot the word which is just to repeat what they’ve heard others say and do. Instead they should be ferreting the words which just as then bereans; search out the scriptures for yourself to find true knowledge!
I find it interesting: this family is a study in personality styles. Sometimes their Ace/Hero comes out and sometimes their Dragon of Defects rears its ugly head–like all of us. At least it stirs up conversation and that’s a good thing!
I’m no christian, in fact I don’t believe in God, Heaven, Hell or the Hereafter… my opinion is this show is very low. I can find no redeeming qualities in any of the characters. None of them. Well maybe the daughter Brittany thus far seems the most down to earth..but the rest of that clan is bankrupt …overall…,the mother hen Jewel being the worst of the lot. It’s just bad. Bad weaves, bad make-up, bad acting… they are like Braxton Family wanna-bes which has its issues but is nothing like this calamity.
It should not survive to a 2nd season.
Thank you for your honesty! I pray for your salvation and that you will come to the knowledge of Christ! It’s a shame where a non- Christian can realize what this is but Christians do not!! But all those who say Lord, Lord will not enter into the Kingdom.,.,
Garbage
As many have already mentioned, this show is a mockery of family, Christian values and the word of our living God. I have read what the defenders of the show had to say about judging them but the Word Of God directs us to judge and flee from those who would lead us into sin through deceptive claims of piety..the Sadducees and Pharisees were wealthy “church” leaders of their day and they were corrupted by their wealth. Christ outlines in Mark 10: 17-25 what it takes for a rich man to enter heaven. In fact, the selling of material wealth and property appears to not only be advisable, but actually critical — according to Jesus, as there is no chance that a rich person can get into heaven. Rather than a sign of God’s blessing, material wealth is treated as a sign that someone isn’t heeding God’s will. The King James Version emphasizes this point by repeating it three times; “Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God,” . As a Christian and black man, I doubt this program will do anything to increase the spiritual value of its watchers but only increase the lust and/or love for material things and money. In today’s sinful and materialistic world, there is not much difference between a pimp, preacher or politician,
Amen
Preach to these phony folks. Who thinks we are judging. I know fir a fact you can’t fly that jet into heaven.
I am a P.k. of a now deceased prominent minister, I have witnessed much upfront and behind the scenes, sorry to say corruption is alive and well in the Church, however the Tankards claim go havebecome wealth through the gospel music industry and jazz and MlM. We celebrate the Resurrection which is our faith because of Judgemental people of faith,that brought Hope and Love, which is all any of us have,God told us, the rest is truly Superfluous. So be charitable in all things,life,love, speech, because you can‘t take it with you and legacies and generations are their 0wn making. Judge not lest ye be judged,and the jury is still out on this show and all of us.
I don’t think people are judging the Tankards about their success. They have opinions of how they are using money and saying that its all in the name of Jesus. Maybe myself or the others cant quite put it into the correct wording but i understand what and why they are saying it. They never ever preach the word of God when he is in the pulpit. I notice that these preachers now on tv never preach about you need to be Saved, Sanctified, and fill with the Holyghost. Everybody want to leave a legacy or be remember on this earth as money making moguls. All i want to be remembered as is I was told, “Well done my good and faithful servant!” You don’t need money in heaven honey. All your worries will be gone. So sell yourselves if you want to. I am trying to get to heaven for real. I work towards that everyday. People better pick up their bibles in they believe in God. Get to bible study and learn for yourselves. You really need A holy person that is truly of God to help you understand a lot of the bible. Believe it or not, we have good people in the church. Just pray for the ones that are not. God forgive all.
They seem like people who won the lottery and only had money for about 2 or maybe 3 years. You can tell that is somewhat new money. Houses in Tennessee and surrounding states like Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, etc… don’t cost millions and millions of dollars. That house was probably between 3 and 5 hundred thousand. Give or take a little. The show never really say what she really did to get her first million and she still don’t talk about it. I think those people in here million dollar club pay all their money to her and that’s how she stay rich. She didn’t like when Kandi Burress said to live beyond your means and put all that money in the bank instead of shopping and spending. She does not appeal as a person with class. She is definitely what you call a WANNA BE!
Amen. That’s the reason Kandi has maintained wealth since 19. And living lead check them out years to come. ESPECIALLY after this show.
God ain’t sleep.
I have never read so many nasty and rude comments in my life!! What is wrong with youppl? Leave them alone..yes they are wealthy and yes, they have problems like anyone else and I believe thats what is being shown. We, as Blacks, criticize each other horribly..Give this family a chance. How do YOU know what GOD says bout them? You do not…chill
adariyah, please look at most of these posts. Full literate sentences are being used here by most; however, it’s a shame that you are making yourself look so illiterate. People are allowed to have their opinions, so sir down and shut up. If you want to associate with people that are disgracing God, then go for it. Don’t expect the rest of us to sit and watch these people make a mockery of the Lord’s word. You all need to read what the bible says about the greedy rich getting into heaven. Not so easy! When Jewel said the reason she prays is to receive personal jets, I almost vomited! She admitted right there that the only reason she had a relationship with God, is for the personal possessions she receives. That’s sad, and people should not be looking to them for teachings of faith. Ben is no better, acting like a perv on national television, in front of his ,17 yr old daughter. A man constantly talking about his virgin daughter is sick. He needs to stop talking about that in front of other people, especially when she’s right there in the room. That’s perverted!
This is the hottest Mississippi of a mess Bravo could’ve ever come up with. For starters, for a family who is supposedly so wealthy, PLEASE get y’all’s grills fixed!! The thumb-sucking, 2″ spaces between each tooth is NOT a good look! Also, invest in etiquette, decor, fashion & grammar classes while you’re at it! This show SCREAMS ghetto, classless & wannabe the Jones’s, when in actuality, you’re nothing but the JENKINS’ from around the way & hoping no one notices!!!! PLEASE…let season 1 be it! God gets no glory whatsoever in this show!
I am a believer that God is the ultimate judge and that He has given us all “Free Will” to accept or reject His word. I understand that many are offended by the delivery of what should be helpful tools to guide others into God’s wealth. Unfortunately for the Tankard’s the message is often lost a mistake their showy nature. Though I may not agree with their message or methodology, it is very apparent that this show and others like it have caused people to seek God and has stirred up conversations about salvation. So it is my opinion, that God is still getting the Glory. Because there can be no understanding without there ever being any exposure. 2 Tim 2:19 Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.”
2 Tim 2:15 Study to show thyself approved to God a workman that need not be ashamed rightly dividing the Word of Truth.
Excellent article! One of my faves this year