SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 22nd, 2024

Dr. Phillip Jackson of Grace Christian Center (Charlotte) passes
Dr. Phillip Jackson of Grace Christian Center has passed. Dr. Jackson and his wife Cheryl were graduates of RHEMA Bible Training Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The couple was then led by God to return to Charlotte to minister the Gospel here in the city, founding Grace Christian Center. The church, now located in another part Charlotte, has an interesting connection to Victory Christian Center. Prior to moving the church was located at Campus 3, which VCC still owns and operates to this day. Dr. Phillip Jackson is survived by his wife Cheryl, his family, and his Grace Christian Center members. Please continue to keep Dr. Jackson’s family, and his church family in prayer at this time.

Revival is spreading! - Amazon Jungle (Brazil)
Revival is continuing this time in Brazil; missionaries are reporting a growth of the Church in some of the deepest parts of the Amazon jungle. According to those in the area, the Gospel of Jesus Christ is spreading, and evangelical churches are beginning to pop up at a rapid rate because of villagers hungry for the Word of God. The main issue with most missionaries is the amount of time it takes to get to rural areas of the region. The rainforest , which covers about 2.3 million square miles and spans across nine countries can take months to cross for most missionary groups.  Evangelical missions’ teams and pastors in the region are now training pastors and planting churches at a rate not seen in years according to reports. One ministry reported baptizing over 14-thousand people who have accepted Christ in the first six months of this year. As the Church continues to grow in the region, churches in Brazil are sending missions groups to help build schools, medical facilities, and other humanitarian efforts.

News from Israel tonight: Jewish nation fights rebels and terrorist in Northern Israel
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a warning to a group threatening Israel in Yemen. The Houthis, according to the Israeli Defense Forces are backed by Iran. The group recently fired rockets into Northern Israel able to reach over a thousand miles in range for 15 minutes. Minor damage was caused by the incident, but no one was hurt. Netanyahu warned anyone who attacks Israel will have a “quote heavy price to pay.”  In addition to this attack another incident is being blamed on Israel, though no evidence has been presented to prove the IDF’s involvement. Eight suspected members of the terrorist group Hezbollah were killed in a cyber-attack. The terrorists were killed by a simultaneous bomb set off by new pagers issued to the group according to an anonymous source.  The source claims Hezbollah leaders issued pagers to members to avoid what they claimed was a coming cyber-attack by IDF forces through cell phones. Over two thousand were injured in the attack, but Israel has not claimed responsibility for the incident.  Terrorist groups Hamas and Hezbollah have launched attacks against the Jewish nation; the deadliest in October of last year. Both terrorist groups have refused ceasefire agreements and have claimed they want to “wipe Israel off the map.”

SNBC Health report, the importance of gut health in relation to mental health
According to a recent study, there is a strong correlation between mental health and gut health.
The research released in the Journal of Eating Disorders claims patients’ health was observed and compared against how healthy their intestines, stomach and other areas in the digestive system were. The research mainly focused on balancing the healthy bacteria found in the body compared to those who were imbalanced due to issues with Anorexia and other eating disorders. According to the report, a patient observed was able to gain weight and other issues began to stop after treatment that introduced healthy bacteria into the patient’s body. In addition to improvements in mental health, a healthy digestive system supports nutrient absorption, improves mood, positively effects digestion, supports immunity, improves heart health and sleep. Adding good bacteria to the gut can be done by eating fermented grass fed kefir, yogurt, kombucha, buttermilk, and sourdough bread are all examples of food that are fermented and support gut health.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 15th, 2024

Church of England eliminates the word church from advertising
The Church of England is being accused of eliminating the word church in order to appeal to a more liberal and secular crowd. According to critics in England, the Church is being accused of changing its advertising in order to attract more visitors and members. The word church has been replaced with congregation or community. A British vlogger revealed concerning the subject that some congregations are meeting to walk outdoors, calling it “outdoor worship or countryside walks”. This information was revealed in a study published on church planting in the UK. Lead author of the study Reverend Dr. Will Foulger says only two churches used the word congregation in their advertising. This effort is not just in the United Kingdom; according to recent article in USA Today several former pastors and churches are now taking a more liberal approach to church calling their services gatherings, collectives or communities.   These new “communities” are teaching from multiple texts including scriptures from the Word of God, Buddhist, Muslim, and New Age writings. One leader, Danny Prada calls this new approach, a “Contemplative community centered on love. Prada claims they focus on Christ’s teachings, while remaining open to other ways that God speaks to humanity.” For its part in this controversy, the Church of England has not commented on the criticism.  

Revival continues to breakout on college campuses
The good news is that revival is continuing to spread around the world and here in the U.S. The previous move of God that was being experienced on college campuses in 2023 into this year is continuing on campuses across the U.S. According to a pastor, over one thousand students recently gathered for a night of worship at Texas A&M Corpus Christi to hear the gospel of Jesus. 62 later accepted Christ and were baptized. The revival according to campus pastors and ministers is continuing moving from small campuses to large, Christian, and secular. Recently at Ohio State University members of the school’s football team, lead the event, sharing the Gospel to almost one thousand students. 60 students received Christ and were baptized that very night.  

Revival continues to spread in Iran despite persecution of the Church
More exciting news about revival this time from the nation of Iran. The restrictive and oppressive nation is known more for its strict Islamic rules and persecution of minority groups, especially the Christian community. Despite that government’s attempt to suppress the Gospel, it has continued to flourish. According to The Voice of the Martyrs, the oppressive nature of the Iranian government is having the opposite effect on generations of Iranians under their rule. Citizens now desire democracy and freedom according to anonymous sources. This desire has caused more in the country to learn more about Christ through the Christian community in that nation. The result of more being hungry for the Gospel? According to reports from sources inside that nation thousands of mosques are now closing due to a lack of attendance. The Voice of the Martyrs and other Christian organizations also report the Gospel is spreading across other Muslim countries with thousands reporting seeing Christ in visions and becoming hungry for the Word of God.  

SNBC Health report: how a magnesium deficiency can affect the body
Magnesium is considered an essential nutrient required to maintain optimal health and is used in more than 80% of metabolic functions in the body. According to mercola.com, over half of Americans are deficient in this nutrient. Magnesium works in a variety of ways in the body. It helps regulate blood pressure and nerve and muscle function, including the heart. It supports the immune system, helps ease anxiety, promotes restful sleep and has positive effects on mental health. Magnesium protects the body from cognitive issues such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Because it supports the body in so many ways, a deficiency can cause a variety of issues. Magnesium deficiency is connected to cardiovascular problems, hypertension and stroke, respiratory issues, depression, Type 2 diabetes, fragile bones, and muscle pain. While supplementation is one way to get this vital nutrient, the best way is always through food. Spinach, hemp seeds, arugula, zucchini, kale, lettuce, green beans, and butternut squash are all foods that are rich in magnesium. You can also use topical magnesium oils and lotions, or just plain Epsom salts or magnesium flakes in your bath water to help maintain proper levels in your body.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY SEPTMBER 8th, 2024

Vermont changes “language” concerning children in public schools
The state of Vermont’s Health Department has introduced some controversial language for the upcoming school year. According to a recent press release, that state’s Health Department has announced they will no longer use the nouns son and daughter. In a statement on social media the department claims these words are being prohibited due to their “inclusive language initiative”. Officials claim referring to a child as someone’s son or daughter is assuming that they have a traditional family, and that the child is in fact the gender they are referring to (girl or boy). The Vermont Department of Health suggests instead using the words “kid or child” as these are considered more gender neutral. The state’s officials have been known for pushing a liberal agenda, especially in the school system. Critics have previously pushed for liberals to stay out of the classroom and not influence impressionable children with their left leaning agenda.
This controversy has become so divisive, some states have even banned this type of curriculum by order of state law. Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida signed a law in 2022 banning educators from teaching about gender identity and sexual orientation.

Pro-Life groups win victory in New York
Pro-Life centers in New York have won a major victory in a continuing federal case. A federal court has ruled that several non-profit pregnancy centers can provide information about the abortion reversal pill. This pill can be taken to prevent a chemically induced abortion and save the life of the unborn child. Critics claim the pill is basically a placebo and does not help prevent abortion. Pro-Life doctors countered, presenting studies proving that this pill works and has saved the lives of thousands of unborn babies. A justice presiding over the case agreed saying the state of New York could not ban these centers from talking with and treating patients that want to save the life of their babies. Justice John Sinatra Jr. said in his ruling the centers have a right to freedom of speech. Sinatra Jr. continued saying that freedom of speech covers the fields of medicine and public health when information being shared can save lives.
The Abortion Pill Rescue Network reports a 64 to 68 percent success rate for women who follow protocol to prevent an abortion after taking the abortion reversal pill. Alliance Defending Freedom reports over five thousand babies have been saved because of this treatment.

US Justice Dept. presses charges against terrorist group
The US Justice Department has announced they will pursue criminal charges against the terrorist group Hamas. The announcement was made recently during continued attempts to restart ceasefire negotiations between Israel and the terrorist group. The Biden Administration has claimed they will no longer negotiate with terrorists and will seek justice against the terror group’s top leaders. US Attorney General Merrick Garland, in his statement, acknowledged October 7th as the worst atrocity against the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Garland continued saying Hamas is receiving political and financial support from Iran and Hezbollah as part of the group’s attempts to destroy the nations of Israel and murder its citizens. This announcement comes following news that six more hostages, including an Israeli American citizen were killed recently by terrorists as Israeli forces closed in to rescue the group.
The US says it will continue negotiations; Israel is open to talks, but that nation’s, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has refused to order his military out of a region that borders Egypt. Netanyahu says the area is a hub for smuggling illegal weapons and would compromise the safety of Israel’s citizens.

SNBC Health report: Black Tea and gut health
 Researchers have discovered health benefits to the human body by studying the effects of black and green tea on mice. According to Psychology Today, the human body harbors 100 trillion microorganisms, like the body of mice. Because of these microorganisms, it is important to eat with the intention of helping the gut, not harming its process of breaking down food and taking in the nutrients. According to research from UCLA, black tea can change and improve gut function for the benefit of the human body. Black tea and green tea according to the study are full of prebiotics, which promotes the growth of good microorganisms. It also has antioxidant polyphenols, reduces the risk of stroke, and heart attacks. Black tea is also believed to help prevent diabetes and fight against cancer. Its nutrient list includes riboflavin, folate, magnesium, potassium and amino acids. Just a reminder black tea does have caffeine, so if you are monitoring your caffeine intake, please consult with a trusted healthcare professional before adding it to your health regimen.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 1st, 2024

Statue of Hindu god erected in Texas
A statue in Texas is causing a stir around the U.S. A Hindu temple in Sugarland, Texas recently unveiled a new statue during a celebration ceremony. The statue is of the Hindu deity Hanuman; the 90-foot statue is now considered the 3rd largest in the U.S. behind the Statue of Liberty in New York, and a statue called the Pegasus and Dragon in Florida. The statue is of a half man, half monkey and is the god of power, courage and selfless service in the Hindu religion. Some religion experts say the statue being built in the U.S. is reflective of decrease in the number of Americans who identify as Christian. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, only 64 percent of Americans identified as Christian in 2020. The average was 90 percent in 1972. Christians and conservatives called the statue demonic; representatives from the Hindu temple say they hope the statue sets new milestones between Americans and Indian communities.

Michigan court finds pro-life demonstrators guilty
Critics are speaking out following the conviction of several pro-life protestors in Michigan. The seven defendants were convicted for peacefully protesting in front of an abortion clinic. Those convicted included an 89 year old protestor. The convictions for one charge could carry up to a 10 year sentence. The prosecutors charged the demonstrators under the F.A.C.E. ACT, which stands for Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances. This federal law was originally passed to prosecute and convict hate groups in the U.S., like the KKK. The 89 year old, named Eva Edl, survived a concentration camp in Yugoslavia as a child. Ms. Edl says she is being persecuted for Christ’s sake and says she is ready to spend her final years in prison if she is sentenced to jail time. Critics have expressed outrage saying the law is being used against pro-life protestors is an abuse of power.

Israeli forces launch successful pre-emptive strike
Israeli forces are reporting success after a pre-emptive strike. The country’s defense forces say they launched a strike against the terrorist group, Hezbollah. IDF officials say the strike may have saved the lives of hundreds, if not thousands of civilians in the Northern region of that country. Israel’s military announced the strike after they confirmed surveillance of the terrorist group’s weapons arsenal. Hezbollah did attempt to counterattack; one Israeli soldier was killed in that attack. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says they will continue their defensive against Hezbollah to protect Israel’s citizens. 

SNBC Health report: the Health Benefits of artichokes
The artichoke is a vegetable that is not as popular as others here in the U.S. It is one that should be considered due to its flavor and benefits to the human body. Artichokes contain a nutrient that assists in antioxidant absorption and is ranked number seven by the Department of Agriculture here in the U.S. for its antioxidant properties. It is beneficial to blood pressure and the brain. Artichokes are believed to assist in improved gut health, reduce cholesterol, heart health, and helps improve skin health. Artichokes can also provide 10 grams of fiber to the daily diet; 25 to 50 grams is recommended daily. This vegetable can be prepared in a variety of ways and is harvested during the spring and fall seasons.  

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY AUGUST 25th, 2024

US Supreme Court reject emergency addition to Title IX
The Supreme Court has struck down an attempted emergency request by the Biden Administration. The court struck down an addition to Title IX that would have added a clause for claims of sex and gender identity discrimination in restrooms. The clause would have allowed biological men who identified as women to be allowed in women’s restrooms, locker rooms and dorms in several Republican run states. The attorney generals from several of those states sued, saying the clause would violate state laws. The Supreme Court agreed to strike down the emergency clause in 5-4 decision. The court in its ruling said the Biden Administration did not prove its case claiming the need for the additional clause. The justices added the Title IX addition would violate a previous ruling from the lower courts. Conservatives have praised the court’s decision.

Planned Parenthood offers abortions & vasectomies in celebration of DNC national rally in Chicago
The final days of the Biden Harris administration have seen additional chaos at the party’s national rally. The Democratic National Convention wrapped up this week in Chicago. DNC convention participants were given several party favors offered throughout the city, including the opportunity to get a free abortion. Planned Parenthood according to several credited news sources arrived in the Windy City, just prior to the DNC and offered its services to visitors and residents of the city. The organization offered free abortion pills, vasectomies and contraceptives to those in the area claiming it was helping those in states where abortion services are restricted. A spokesperson for Planned Parenthood expressed excitement to offer their services to the Chicago community. The group claims that 20 to 30 patients at the time of this broadcast had already received services from the mobile clinic. The DNC did not sponsor Planned Parenthood’s efforts, but party leaders have not publicly condemned the mobile clinic being in Chicago at the same time as their national convention. Two pro-life organizations have now countered setting up their own mobile clinics to educate and speak to those seeking services from the Planned Parenthood mobile clinic. The DNC also experienced major protests from Pro-Palestine groups near the Democratic National Convention’s location and at the Israel consulate in Chicago. Over 200 protestors threw rocks, burned the American flag and a flag bearing the Jewish Star of David. Several were arrested in the protests.
The protests were conducted by a group called Behind Enemy Lines, which Chicago city representatives say did not have a permit to protest.

SNBC NEWS UPDATE: ongoing persecution of the church in Nicaragua
According to reports the government is now shutting down evangelical Christian organizations. Authorities have reportedly shut down over 15-hundred Christian organizations in the country.
The Nicaraguan government claims these groups failed to disclose financial statements. Critics say it is all about the persecution of the Church. The ongoing persecution has occurred since 2018 but increased following a large evangelism event last year, that attracted close to one million people. The organizers of that event have since been imprisoned and accused of embezzlement and money laundering. Christian watchdog groups call the charges and arrests a clear punishment for witnessing the gospel in Nicaragua.

SNBC Health report: the Health Benefits of Matcha Tea
This tea has continued to grow in popularity here in the U.S. Mainly consumed as a drink, it can be used in variety of ways. No matter how you use matcha tea most nutritionists comment on its high nutritional value. Matcha is derived from a plant related to the plant that produces green tea. It is loaded with natural antioxidants; these are contributed to the fact that the process to make matcha tea uses the entire plant leaf. This tea is beneficial to brain function and helps protect the liver. It may also improve heart health and assist in dental health. When purchasing matcha tea, organic is considered best, but the plant is reportedly grown without pesticides or chemicals.