Dr. Juanita Bynum, a prominent pastor and author of “Matters of the Heart,” has ignited a heated debate with her recent comments during a revival sermon at The Power House Chicago.
Bynum expressed concern over what she perceives as a blurring of lines between men and women in church, particularly in their attire and worship styles.
In her sermon, Bynum addressed the congregation, stating:
“Brothers, we’re wearing our pants too tight… those little bitty suits are worrying me. Those ones that are high waters that cut all up in here so we can count how many you got down there. Something is wrong.” She went on to critique what she deemed as inappropriate male attire, including “little jackets that are too little, look like you just put on Lil Ray Ray’s clothes or something and came to church.”
Bynum did not stop at fashion critiques; she also expressed disapproval of what she considered improper worship behavior.
“To the point, even your little dance scares me. The way you shout scares me. Your knees too close to be a man… Just tipping when you shout. Open up your legs and shout like a man! Y’all up here shouting like girls, and the women shouting like dudes… close your legs up; you’re a woman!” she said.
These comments, delivered from the pulpit, have stirred controversy and received criticism on social media. Some individuals expressed disappointment at feeling insulted in a place where the mantra “come as you are” is often emphasized.
One Instagram user wrote:
“Imagine going to church where you’re supposed to be able to ‘come as you are,’ just to be insulted. Smh. Do better.”
Others questioned the apparent contradiction between Bynum’s remarks and biblical teachings. A user quoted 1 Timothy 2:12, which states:
“I permit not a woman to teach, or to have authority over a man: She must be silent.”
The user questioned Bynum’s role as a leader in the church and her commentary on men.
Online discussions about the video drew parallels between Dr. Juanita Bynum and Kim Burrell, both facing criticism for controversial statements from the pulpit.
Burrell, a gospel vocalist, faced backlash when she silenced a woman during a sermon.
The comparisons highlight the ongoing discourse about the appropriateness of leaders’ comments and actions within religious settings.
