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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. ❤
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 .
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
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 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 👋🏽
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 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.
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
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
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*
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.
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.
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.
Yeaaa, churches that welcome your services should for sure consider you and your craft and time and budget the best hotel while you visit... It's only 1-2 days anyway. That's insane.
“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
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
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... 😂
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.
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.
What got me laughing was the confidence that came after the several doubts when answering the second question. Why do we do that🤣🤣?
I'm just laughing at how Brunos is laughing at 'Brunos wept'.😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
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+! 👏🏽🙌🏽
I personally love your dry humor Jon. This was a very interesting and insightful conversation about church VIPs. I learned alot. 😊❤
Not smiling doesn’t = mean tho. Nobody walks around smiling all the time. We don’t owe anyone a smile, it’s a gift.
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.
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 so enjoyable to watch. Loved every minute of it. Looking forward to the next one
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.
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.
Y’all have done it again!! I loved this episode!
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. ❤
I enjoyed this so much! Luv U Johnathan and I TRULY ENJOYED YOU ALL LAST NITE AT THE OUR HALLELUJAH TOUR IN RVA❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🙌🏽
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 .
Look im already to excited! 😂😂
I was definitely yelling Mr potato head at the tv!
Lord i wanna thank you for what you've, and i wont let anyone take it away..
Yall are such a dope mix!!! I'm here for it!!
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
Shuuu! That's so good Jon! "We chose to be excellence in what we did." Love that! I can't imagine... Sympathising with you!
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! 😂😂
This was a great episode guys! Very entertaining. Keep it up!
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.
POWERFUL VIDEO, AMEN POWERFUL VOICE, AMEN POWERFUL PREACHING, AMEN POWERFUL WORDS, AMEN HALLELUJAH GLORY TO GOD ✝️ 🙏 🙌 👏
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
We are mindful of you both, love this podcast keep it coming. Loving your humour 😂
Loving that sermon called "The Letter E- You Already Had It" ❤
This podcast is really great!! Keep up the good work gentlemen!!
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 😂
It’s the insincere apology for me😂 I love this podcast situ, really humanizes you!!✌🏾
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 love love this because we get to get to know more about you and see how funny you are.😂😂
Now Brunus.... That was Exhausting lol Jon was right ALL ALONG.
I love this. You
and PT have to do one
lmfbooo on the smile part. Great podcast ! 👌🏾✨
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 love love this, thank you Sir McReynolds and Sir Brunes😊.
16 hours....countdown 😊. I'm ready for it!
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.
I'm with YOU Jonathan ... I KNEW it was the letter E! 😂😂😂
Haha this was so funny and rich, will defo be watching again
God bless everyone 🙏🏾😇
I thoroughly enjoyed this show
This was really good! 👍🏾
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
"There is no hint" 😂
Love the equality and equity comparison ❤👏🏽
I'm super very excited
Ohkay Brunus,I'll smile 😢you're making me melt 😅
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 agree with this in it's entirety!
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*
I'm so excited
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.
READY LETS GO!!
Loved it!
wait i actually love this 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.
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 Enjoyed the podcast.
Thank you Mr. McReynolds
I’m answering the genius segments like it’s jeopardy
🎶 how dare I wear a frown upon my face. I can’t help but smile. 🎶 the world didn’t give it and the world can’t take it away. 😊
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.
it would be fun if someone played against Jonathan for the genius questions ☺️
He's like but when am I supposed to eat??
Yeaaa, churches that welcome your services should for sure consider you and your craft and time and budget the best hotel while you visit... It's only 1-2 days anyway. That's insane.
“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
This was hi-la-ri-ous 😂😂😂. Love it.
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.
Smile is annoying when nothings wrong 😂😂trying to holla 💀
You & Brunis are like Johnny Carson & Ed.
I love this !!😂
😂😂 Amazing Uncle Jon. The themes songs fire tho
Brunes is low key a menace lol 🤣😂
Preach Minister Jon
Thank you 🙏🏽😂
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
Preach it daddy 🤣🤣
I love you ❤️💜
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!
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... 😂
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.
🤔Good Point🤔
🤣🤣🤣 Jonathan my beloved
"kinda weird at times word" 🤣🤣
I don't like sitting in the VIP section, but I am ok with the VIP section.
I’m a genius too I guessed them before Jon did 🙌🏾👏🏾👏🏾 😂😂 woohoo
Brunes was just Mac in.....😮😂 #smile
A word in season 😂❤
Thank you for that apology, Jon. Us women appreciate it!
🤔Jesus went into the wilderness or on the mountain to get a regular church experience 🤔 A popular guy🤔
😂😂these genius sessions😂
Wheeew, you already got it that’s why he tryna steal it
everywhere, time and space have no empirical ends. It better be the letter e or... trouble
I went to a service and sat two rows behind Foxy Brown. She didn’t sit in VIP and no one bothered her. 😅
For context, This was in the year 99/00 ish? So she definitely had current popular status.
❤❤🎉
Y'all gotta watch videos of LL Cool J and his lips to get pointers 😂😂😂
Mr. Jon isn't the type to just watch online church service. He has to be there for the real experience.