James Coates Is Free but Now the Whole Church Is In Jail | Guest: Pastor James Coates | Ep 401

[@jo9354]

Pastor Coates, the government of Alberta (Canada) wants to make an example of you. In so doing they have unwittingly made you an example for Christ! Keep the Faith, and may God continue to encourage and bless you!

[@williammacpherson6252]

AMEN

[@paullucas8721]

@@questionasker8791 He's standing up for Christ and his Church. As jack booted thugs, the Alberta government hates any opposition to their authority.

[@jwehrli6]

@@questionasker8791 the fact that nobody from the church has had covid.

[@fe8199]

@@questionasker8791 It's funny how you will cut the religion of government authority so much slack and yet strawman attack a peaceful pastor doing what he is called to do during a time the government and its restrictions are killing more people than the "pandemic". I will address one of your comments. You state the government is "protecting the community from a pandemic". This government you speak of supports the killing of thousands of babies annually as a "human right". It is also pushing for the legal murder of older people, or people with mental illnesses. Protecting the community? Caring for the community? If it wasn't so destructive it would be laughable how hypocritical it is. This is about control and a disdain for the free man that is driving this hysteria

[@bogeyman3132]

@@questionasker8791 oh you sound fun!

[@4swzb]

I met this Beautiful follower of Christ on the Day of the locked up church....he gifted me the teachings of Christ with such earnest I have not been able to sleep since my encounter. He left me thirsty for more of the teachings. truly a Blessing. Pastor James if you read this this is George I hope we meet just once more.

[@nicholeshandcraftedlife9270]

I live in Georgia near Atlanta and the churches here have for the most part not been as brave as this man. Most have a required preregistration to attend church and once the seats are “sold out” you are out of luck and can not attend. This speaks volumes to me as to what their priorities are. We need more men in leadership like this man!

[@deborahparrish2201]

Hallelujah!!!! You are one of the few people I have heard say what I feel. That these churches who are still bowing down to these unlawful government mandates, but yet claiming they are obeying God by being "open" and requiring social distancing, pre-registration and you must vacate the premises immediately afterward, are straddling the fence. By now everyone who is honest knows what is really going on and I am waiting for our spiritual "leaders" to obey God completely. I also believe requiring their flock to pre-register is dangerous: will these churches finally find their backbones when the government demands these lists????

[@mayowankenobi]

My church near Seattle is wide open without restrictions. Several thousand on Easter. The governor, local police, news outlets and busy body neighbors have been trying to shut us down since July. Each weekend, dozens of new salvations. The spirit is moving through a flock because there is no fear. Stand strong brothers and sisters. This virus is less dangerous than an entire culture that turns it back on God.

[@tamichildofGod8249]

Our local church is the same way. You have to sign up to attend you have to be socially distanced you have to mask up when you sing. They even took the Bibles out of the pews. Needless to say, we have found another church to attend that is more honoring to God

[@apilkey]

@@deborahparrish2201 It’s not “bowing the knee to government.” It’s called ROMANS 13:1-7 1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. If you think mask wearing is persecution you’re in for a rude awakening. I live in Alberta just north of pastor Coates church. There’s absolutely nothing preventing his church from gathering. I went to church on Sunday with zero issues. This guy has brought this upon himself by refusing to honour God and who He’s put in authority. No one is getting their heads chopped off in Canada and no one is being prevented from being a Christian. Nowhere in scripture are we called to fight against things that do NOT go against the Word of God.

[@WelcomeToTheZooblog]

@@apilkey Hear hear! I'm also in Canada, on staff at a church. We've been following the restrictions for our area, and haven't missed a beat. We've never turned anyone away, and have been meeting in person faithfully. I feel like this is our opportunity to learn creative ways to continue meeting together as practice for when the REAL persecution comes.

[@lisfong]

Praying for Pastor James and the true church in Canada - be strong and of good courage! Thank you for preaching the gospel Pastor James!

[@waitingandthenupigo]

I would never encourage rebellion, and nor would Jesus.

[@lisfong]

@@waitingandthenupigo the first century church in a Rome would agree. As would all the underground churches in China, Iran, e.t.c.

[@cangeljan12]

I'm a Catholic from Ireland. I prayed for you Pastor. God never let's us down.. Thou will be done. 🍀

[@petemiller9972]

THY will be done

[@waitingandthenupigo]

America is in trouble because of sin.

[@thomasnorton2679]

Catholicism is a heresy. Salvation is by grace alone (Ephesians 2:8-9) through faith alone (Romans 3:21-28) in Christ alone (1 Timothy 2:5, Acts 4:12), according to scripture alone (2 Timothy 3:16-17, Matthew 4:4), for the glory of God alone (Romans 11:36, Philippians 1:11). James Coates is a reformed Pastor, he would say the exact same to you. Carol you need to leave the Catholic Church, it is a heresy.

[@hglundahl]

@@thomasnorton2679 _"through faith alone"_ - and not "works of the law" if you look up Romans 3. Two perfectly valid RC solutions on this attack : St. Paul meant "works of the old law" (like circumcision, killing doves and sheep on altars, avoiding certain meats) OR he meant it about the initial moment of justification of someone previously in a state of sin ... in that sense salvation is about more than that moment. _" according to scripture alone"_ Timothy quote doesn't say Scripture alone, and Matthew 4:4 doesn't say the words proceeding from God's mouth are only available by Scripture. _"James Coates is a reformed Pastor, he would say the exact same to you."_ Doesn't mean we can't pray for him if he's persecuted, right? Russian Orthodox get less wrong than Reformed, but even they get some wrong and we were praying the Commie persecution would come to an end even so.

[@stonethecrowshomestead]

I couldn't see Jesus turning the 3000 away on the mountain due to a flu or a roman enforcement, He wouldn't turn people away . Bless you Brother James.

[@marjoriebourgouin2782]

@@questionasker8791 amazingly there was not even 1 case of covid in his church. That is a testimony in itself about putting our trust in God instead of man. If you listen to this video he did give people an alternative for those who wanted it. Sorry but there are more risk at Cosco or Walmart.

[@JesusisLord1g]

@@questionasker8791 it’s unfortunate so many believe their government is doing this out of safety. You’re asleep. They will be shutting you down next.

[@waitingandthenupigo]

Nor would you ever see Jesus rebuking against his authorities. He did so unto death.

[@gracefaithsaved]

Amen🤍

[@Dansyoung]

@walk by faith LOL you guys are nuts. You think your religion makes YOU more important than others? Other people aren’t going to heaven because they don’t know what YOU know? If there is a god and heaven ironically you will goto hell because of your lacking for the health and safety of others. I would quote your scripture to show you what I mean, but I know how your cherry picking type works - you will only chose the quotes that fit your agenda and ignore all the others that don’t. Just keep paying money to your church ⛪️, it will save you 🤷‍♂️😂

[@steveguti6452]

Jesus Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures and that he was buried and that he rose again the third day praying for everyone everyday God bless you all .

[@lindamyshak7352]

And that is the gospel of Christ. Wearing a mask for health reasons, socially distancing for health reasons and washing hands does not stop anyone from sharing the gospel, nor do any of those things stop a child of God from worshiping Him, ever!! No one has been told they cannot share the gospel, pray etc. Just don't get why Christians have a hard time with this.

[@Kassadinftw]

@@lindamyshak7352 You apparently missed the entire point of this interview.

[@harblz57]

The *government* is controlling access to their building. The *government* is limiting who and how many can be there to worship. The *government* is controlling the expression of religion. Stop being a quisling.

[@stub4925]

You have to take the Bible as a whole. There are roles for church and state. The state has gone too far and will have to answer for this over reach when they face judgement. As churches we are supposed to follow Jesus and continue our worship as we did before. Yes the pandemic is real but God will not be happy with our lack of faith as it is the Lord that decides when we live and when we die. To make the state God of these matters is a massive mistake. The state should be a good servant of Christ, it makes a poor God.

[@lindamyshak7352]

@@privatecitizen4001 we are the church as believers. Our bodies belong to God, as believers in Jesus we are free to worship Him all the time any where, is that not correct?

[@mitchellscott1843]

Thank you Allie for continuing to cover this story. Am an Albertan who stands with Pastor Coates and Gracelife Church.

[@barbieduggan]

Me too. 🙌

[@consideritalljoy7960]

Me three 🙂🙏

[@MrsJAC23]

Me four! 😁

[@billgen4271]

Five!

[@breathebetweenthespaces]

From Saskatchewan ..Six! ✝️

[@KellyLamb]

Thank you so much Allie for covering this Canadian story. It is hard to see this happening in my country.

[@allanneill4158]

It is hard to imagine it is in Canada. Beware devil comes in many forms as a roaring lion.

[@waitingandthenupigo]

Not everything is as it seems.

[@gracefaithsaved]

Amen🤍

[@patriciagrant6687]

This video is so encouraging .ON CHRST THE SOLID ROCK WE STAND ALL OTHER GROUND IS SINKING SAND !!!!

[@Gruuvin1]

Oh thou almighty King, Thy songs we'll always sing

[@tourmaline7385]

Amen!

[@waitingandthenupigo]

Self-fulfilling prophecy. They are likely to usher us out of the age of grace for their actions.

[@gracefaithsaved]

Amen🤍

[@juliafleming7538]

@@waitingandthenupigo What??

[@saraz9017]

God bless this pastor.

[@donmoss568]

We are so thankful to our great God in Heaven for this brave and courages young man and his leadership to God's people in Canada! May it all be for your Glory and Honour! Amen!

[@paullucas8721]

@@questionasker8791 Pastor Coates spelled the data out quite clearly. Did you listen?

[@Dansyoung]

The church of Satan also tells you to question what your being told. Coates the newest member?

[@donmoss568]

@@Dansyoung Pastor Coates seeks to be obedient to the One who has redeemed his soul. Ezekiel 28:12-20 tells what is in store for Satan. Ezekiel 33 describes prescribed places in the pit for all who do not place their trust in the only one who can redeem their soul. Do not trifle with Almighty God who is a consuming fire.

[@Dansyoung]

@don moss Romans 13:1-2 says: "Obey the government, for God is the One who has put it there. ... So those who refuse to obey the law of the land are refusing to obey God, and punishment will follow."

[@donmoss568]

@@Dansyoung Don't stop at verse 2 continue and you will see that the government is supposed to administer God's laws. You are supposed to be able to trust them to keep these laws. The laws being passed by this government) in this country contravene the charter of rights which have their foundation in God's statutes. The government is forfeiting its mandate when it contravenes God's edicts.

[@livingunashamed4869]

So much respect for this guy.

[@livingunashamed4869]

@@questionasker8791 Covid 19 is way overblown. The government is using it to suppress people especially christians.

[@vanessab2726]

@@questionasker8791 copy and paste. Paid shill bot

[@Dansyoung]

Satan didn’t follow the rules either... jus sayin

[@sherryjohnston4477]

I am from the United States, Port Clinton,Ohio. Praying for you, your Wife, family and all who are involved. May God continue to strengthen all of you and may the name of the Lord Jesus Christ be lifted up and glorified in and through it all. Love you all in Christ

[@gloriablair1978]

Amen, Amen Pastor James I'm so thrilled to see a fellow Canadian stand for freedom of worship and obey God rather than man.Thank you for proclaiming what is true and what is really going on and I really agree with you no church will be able to fully meet. The Lord tells us to always fight for our freedom.Galatians 5:1

[@ChrisHolman]

I'm about to upload two sermons today, we must spread the Gospel now more than ever! Only Jesus is the solution to this fallen world!!

[@williammacpherson6252]

YES HE IS THE ONE AND ONLY THANK YOU HEAVENLY FATHER FOR YOUR SON JESUS THE CHRIST AMEN !!!

[@canadianhomestead5]

Used to be a missionary retired 20 years ago. Was ready to die in a foreign country to bring the gospel to the world now, I'm ready to die to bring the word of God to Canada! Who knew this turn of events would happen?

[@oaktree5488]

I was in a fight years ago. I didn't have a voice and was attacked from all sides. But I knew God was asking me to take a stand for what was right. In the end, God got the glory and I didn't even have to say a word !!! God will fight this battle even if it looks impossible right now !!

[@suzannegoudreauporchet1962]

When the pandemy is going to end everything will go back to normal!

[@ianmcdonald8648]

@@suzannegoudreauporchet1962 the pandemic is fear. Society has been innoculated with very high doses of F E A R !

[@lydiamclaughlin7100]

Watching this unfold here in my beloved Canada has been heartbreaking...Lord please help us..Thank you Allie for interviewing!

[@courtneychristofferson100]

Honored to share a province with a man like this.

[@susanwilson2297]

ABSOLUTELY and AMEN to that🙌😊🙏

[@courtneychristofferson100]

@@questionasker8791 I thinks that's a very fair question. He is acting in a way that he feels honours God which I get not everyone will understand or agree with. For me the point is that no one is forced to attend this church so if you don't safe attending please don't attend. But I do want to honour our constitutionally-given rights to practice our religion as we see fit. For me it's more the principle of the matter however I also have a faith in God which is affecting me viewpoint.

[@courtneychristofferson100]

@@questionasker8791 We obviously see things differently but hopefully we can maintain a respectful discourse. You point to torturing babies for religion example... I see what you're getting at but torture and murder is illegal so that would never occur as an example of exercising religious freedoms above the law. This virus is over 99% survivable so yes we have fundamental differing views on how this should be handled. If people are that fearful of this virus they should avoid all non-essential human contact. However as a societal response it doesn't make sense to force everyone to be locked down so we can avoid the small percentage of the already unwell population from getting sick. Threatening the livelihoods and mental health of over 99% of the population to possibly save the under 1% doesn't make sense. If lockdowns worked we would have had society open back up by now after that initial '2 weeks' intense lockdown. As I understand it this virus is so contagious we've all already been exposed to it assuming we've left the house for some reason in the past year. We need to take a leap and open back up.

[@Phoenix-rw3nh]

@@questionasker8791 You are asking wrong questions .

[@deanne.m.sanderson]

Godly man. May many come to our LORD through his testimony.

[@patriciamccool5243]

Hello from SW Texas. My church went to 2 services. One was fully masked and the 2nd was come in with the mask but take it off while seated. Guess which services had the most people. Thankfully TX has eased up...we still have 2 services (mostly the elderly and people with illnesses attend that one). We are not distancing anymore though!! So grateful!!

[@BelovedOne21]

Many of the members of GraceLife have been witnessing to supporters, police, media, etc 🙌🏻 It is a blessing to witness.

[@waitingandthenupigo]

They witness in vain. They have lost their witness. The world is laughing at them. It is hypocrisy to rebel against God in public but teach such things in their church. These people do not represent the One True Living God Almighty who is capable of changing circumstances. Instead of waiting on God, they took it into their own hands.

[@gracefaithsaved]

Amen🤍

[@jamesshiels6560]

@@waitingandthenupigo you are a shallow person,,,and judgemental of the body of Christ

[@waitingandthenupigo]

@@jamesshiels6560 Not judging. Just pointing out the truth and so that he doesn't lead anybody astray. My actions are completely Biblical.

[@waitingandthenupigo]

I just know my Bible.

[@Thetruthhassetmefree]

We need more men of God like pastor Coates!! As a fellow Canadian, true men of God who truly preach the word of God are sadly harder and harder to find!! 👍😎🙏

[@arsxs04]

We stand by you pastor.

[@judytaya4347]

What an awesome man of God. Yes, the Lord is using this whole unfortunate situation to bring attention to how fragile freedom is. We must respect it and keep fighting for it.

[@mohammadomar4207]

Our church is closed, but we have 100’s still going on Sunday but underground. We keep changing the venue to not get caught.

[@jennifergeorge7280]

In Calgary?

[@richardthenryvideos]

Where?

[@shobhanapeters5721]

Yes it is like China underground church .....right in Canada

[@shobhanapeters5721]

@@richardthenryvideos In Alberta, town called Edmonton

[@shobhanapeters5721]

@@jennifergeorge7280 north of Calgary, in Edmonton

[@conservativewarrior6748]

The regulations will never end. God Bless Him for standing strong in the midst of persecution!

[@steveguti6452]

I am very sick for a long time it's been rough time for me Barbara continues improving slowly praise God we would appreciate it deeply if anyone could pray for us we are sick we are grateful to God and the power of prayers is the best medicine we have we desperately need your prayers please pray for us praying for everyone everyday God bless you all.

[@countrylife8853]

You know what you are sick from?

[@motorTranz]

Prayer sent up.

[@jo9354]

+1. May God heal you and give His peace.

[@alwaysnwonder7930]

Prayed for both of you

[@juleseight2513]

What an encouraging interview! God bless your faithfulness and example Pastor James. To God be the Glory!

[@kristabradleymusic]

So deeply thankful for men and women of God who are standing firm. May we all do our part to hold the line and not cower to fear and deception. 🙏💕💕💕

[@jackkassabian4544]

Look at that smile on James coats. Way to go James coats being obedient to Christ Alone!

[@butterflybeatles]

@@questionasker8791 True. Jesus Christ probably wants the closure of all churches and the total destruction of Christianity.

[@vanessab2726]

@@questionasker8791 shill...

[@nj8215]

I'm soo happy you did this video. We must all pray for Pastor James and his church. God bless you

[@darleneminix-tracey3712]

God bless you, Paster James Coates, and thank you so much for your courage, which I find extremely inspirational ! ❤️ Your story has spread far and wide and encouraged many who’ve grown weary of covid restrictions in their churches, their businesses, their communities, and their families. I live in Florida and shared the sermon you preached (on February 14th before you served jail time) because your message was very important for sooo many people to hear ! Wonderful sermon !! It was Justin Peters who first shared your story with us and I am thanking God for that because your sermon was one like I’d never heard before, and one that most certainly needed to be preached ! So thank you ! My prayers for you, your family, and your congregation will be continuing thru whatever happens next. Stay strong because the world is watching and those of us who know Jesus, know the truth, no matter what deception they try to spin against you. God’s blessings to all of you ! 🙏❤️🙏

[@kathrynludrick4821]

Praying for GraceLife-Edmonton and James Coates.

[@steveguti6452]

Keep believing even when it's hard all things are possible with God praise God praying for everyone everyday God bless you all .

[@dianesheehy122]

Take pictures of the mosque and share it with everyone!!!! Show the truth, please!!! God bless you!

[@mikedaplumber]

As a former Edmontonian that moved to Hawaii 30 years ago absolutely agree with this man of God. I really do love this man and hope he continues honoring our God and Savior.

[@dezzy151]

I been praying alot for him, glad he is out

[@lornemclean]

Was a pleasure for my wife and I to meet James and Erin this past weekend. This plandemic is raising up men and women of conviction who stand for Christ!

[@laurenharris9510]

Thanks for having him on!! Praise God and to Him alone be the glory!!

[@bridgetfrench3056]

Thank you so much Pastor for standing up for Jesus Christ! Many here in America are praying for you and your church!

[@dongray9720]

Amen Pastor Coates. Preaching the gospel in every interview.

[@Shellbell170]

I am so glad to hear he is out and leading his congregation he was protected by the Angel Army here in USA I had to leave my Church after 8 yrs. Attendance they caved and shut there doors! The past year was very painful without the church family we had come to know thankfully God brought my husband and I to a very bold truthful Bible teaching Pastor who has taken a lot of persecution even as far as BLM outside protesting he has been fined and been slandered and ridiculed for keeping the doors open and leading his people through this difficult time I feel led to be here and know this pastor is anointed for a time such as this there are going to be those who will attack our faith and malign our Churches willingness to gather in spite of the risks by the way we chose to sit together no mask and there has been no loss of life due to any virus so praise God its his house of worship its our commitment to him and the church to gather together in love to honor him

[@MarinaGarrison]

Alberta’s churches are open at 15% capacity. British Columbia’s (province next door) churches are closed and have been for months. Yet malls are open.

[@jennifergeorge7280]

Are there any churches opening in BC in defiance? We have 3 in Alberta that I know of but I've heard there are 65 nationwide.

[@samanthaloewen5412]

@@jennifergeorge7280 there are a couple in the lower mainland!

[@MarinaGarrison]

@@jennifergeorge7280 I hadn’t heard of any but Sam has answered differently. Some took the Government to court but lost at end of March. No appeal filed yet.

[@susanwilson2297]

Pastor Art Lucier in Kelowna, BC, from Harvest International; his church remains open....unrestricted! HE and his CONGREGATION ABSOLUTELY are STANDING TALL as pastor Coates.

[@MarinaGarrison]

@@susanwilson2297 Thank you!! I live in Kelowna :)

[@brianandtarryn]

What a joy and inspiration it is to hear you Pastor James. The Canadian charter of rights and freedoms have clearly been thrown away by the Canadian government. May God richly bless you Sir.

[@lutchiewiens5788]

I'm in Paraguay. Praise the LORD for He is faithful and true! He is working in and through you! You are a Daniel in such a time as this. This is what God is calling His people to do. And YES! Living under the authority of Christ! Amen! God bless you!

[@mihwarode9630]

Praise the Lord for pastor Coats's faithfulness to the Lord and His congregation. What a way to glorified Lord Jesus. Continue to praying for him and his church to be strengthen by the spirit of God.

[@beulahhillier8974]

Watching from Innisfail Alberta Praying for pastor Coats and church Family

[@butterflybeatles]

What is so hard about spelling his name right?

[@marknrobin1744]

WOW! What an amazing testimony and such a challenge to all of us who follow Christ Jesus! Thank you!!

[@jennifergeorge7280]

My old pastor and one of my fave podcasters. Worlds collide.

[@duxbellorum2772]

Glad he is free again.

[@seekrengr751]

Pastor Coates - following faithfully in the steps of Acts 5:29, "We ought to obey God rather than men". May God bless you for your faithfulness. You are also clearly thinking about what is happening unlike most people.

[@EA-bd7wp]

And ignore Romans 13:1-2

[@bonniek91]

Following in the steps of John McArthur

[@michaelhagerman7829]

American pastors could learn a lot from this Canadian ambassador for Christ! Amen

[@renamcguire1866]

This episode was absolutely beautiful in so many ways. Pastor Coats ending statement brought me to tears. It was wonderful and beautiful. The Lord is Good.

[@mayasews211]

Preach, Pastor James! Always sharing the gospel!!! You and your church are being a HUGE example to so many! 🙌🏻🙌🏻👏🏻👏🏻😊😊

[@sharonkelso3788]

Greetings in the Lord from Northern Ireland, thanking God for the clear witness of Pastor Coates and his congregation to the Supremecy of Christ Jesus and his faithfulness to the Word of God. Praying.

[@Truthhound1]

I was able to go to Grace Life church for a protest last weekend. I saw a real boldness for Christ amongst the youth of that church that I found encouraging. This pastor is a hero of the faith to me. God will be victorious and the forces of evil will continue to be shamed.

[@ahhitskatie9094]

What a blessing!!!! Really enjoyed this interview. Praise God for drawing His children back to Him!

[@crisgonzales642]

Praying for you Pastor and your congregation. - from Philippies

[@gaylenesawatzky5710]

13:06 “The church is not a spectator sport.” 👍

[@blissfulbeautyfull-mess5125]

This is so encouraging ,I am from Ontario,Canada. I m with you 100%. Pastor Coates there are some pastors that are making a stand ,but I think some its 15% capacity ,I haven't been as I'm trying to find a church that is free from having to wear a mask and that we can congregate freely and not be rushed out the door! I want to be that light for Christ! I just attended a protest in St Catherines ,Ontario and it was so liberating but was sccorned by my cousin and called names and also by some friends and family that just don't agree. I choose to live free,and free in Christ!!! I'm glad I am not alone in where I stand ,I refuse to live in fear

[@befullofchrist]

Amen Sister. Spoken in Truth and Love. Keep Preaching the Good News

[@radiantheartwoman]

God bless you pastor!! Thank you for standing up for truth and the REAL church!

[@tessw9744]

16:51 that right there! That's it in a nutshell. If we don't tell them to go pound sand right now, that's the end of Church, PERIOD! EDIT: It will be warm soon...time to bring out the lawn chairs and do service outside.

[@jennifergeorge7280]

Limit 10 to gather outside 🤦🏻‍♀️ nothing makes sense. Also many people are not obeying anymore. I'm seeing lots of lockdown fatigue. Alberta govt has just dug themselves into a pit. They just don't know how to handle this and can't figure it out because they are not used to be authoritarian.

[@tessw9744]

@@jennifergeorge7280 They tell you HOW MANY can gather out side!???!!! Everyone needs to do what this pastor did and just tell them to shove it! Seriously! All this over Covid, that has a 99% recovery rate.

[@krownzera]

@@tessw9744 It's not just that. But the province I live in dictates to us how many other households can gather in our home, if any. Sometimes they say there is a "one household bubble", which means they want no one to be gathering with other households in a home. So my mom couldn't come over to see her grandchildren for example, even if social distancing and masks were being done. Currently, we are in a "steady 15" setting, where a consistent group of 15 people, including children, are permitted to meet in a home. Other covid policies here dictate that masks must be worn at all times in church, unless you are at the pulpit or singing in the band. However, if you are singing in the band without a mask then you need to be 12 ft away from others. Everyone else is permitted to sing while being 6 ft away from others while wearing a mask, and 3 ft away from others while wearing a mask at all other times. Baptisms would therefore violate social distancing rules. They also expect a person to wear a mask when they are in the building alone or with their household members. In Spring of 2020, churches were closed across the board until June or July, then capacity limits of 25 or 50 people were placed on us and they require all businesses (and churches) to have a written covid procedure in order to remain open. Churches are also to take a written record of all those who enter the building for contact tracing purposes. I don't believe our province has a capacity limit at the moment, but people are complaining that we should have one because there was an 'outbreak' at a church in the province the other week. Many local businesses also expect you to sanitize your hands and sign in upon entering, on top of distancing and wearing a mask. Masks are expected to be worn at work if you are expecting to be closer than 6 ft from somebody as well. The majority of the people here (at least those who speak publicly) seem to be FOR these covid guidelines. Some even want more of them, including many professing Christians. It is causing great division among the people and within churches. Many Christians claim it is necessary for us to practice all of these guidelines, or go above and beyond them, in order to be submissive to government and to love our neighbors and help protect them from covid.

[@jennifergeorge7280]

@@krownzera in Alberta we are "not allowed" to have anyone in our home who doesn't live there. People who live alone can have 2 other single people over. But they are also supposed to have the same 2 people, so a group of 3.

[@jennifergeorge7280]

@@tessw9744 right!? Up until a few weeks ago we weren't even supposed to gather outside at all. There were signs up everywhere saying "no gathering". VERY distopian.

[@joyjacobs7671]

Very encouraging. Our church in Missouri USA has been open for several months. We have seen many people searching for Christ during this season.

[@rz4128]

Would join Pastor Coates church if I could. I go to a church in Alberta that is 15 % gathering wearing masks and distancing. Thanks be to the LORD for him, his fellow elders, GraceLife church and also Pastor MacArthur and Grace Community Church. Praying fervently for His (the LORD'S) will be done and glory be to Him!!!

[@apilkey]

I go to church in Alberta as well and have no issues. Yes wearing masks suck but this is not persecution. No one is getting their heads chopped off yet and none is being forced to renounce Christ. This pastor is trying to be a martyr for the wrong cause. Nowhere in scripture is their any precedent for what this guy is doing. ROMANS 13:1-7 1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

[@rz4128]

Did you listen to the whole interview? What other person has been put in jail for staying open? Barbers, restaurants, etc. are just being fined, as Coates's church is also. It's been over a year and we're all still wearing masks and social distancing. I think of the children who are growing up in this. Everyone is so afraid of dying. They need to hear the gospel and turn to the LORD and the fear will go away. Life here is short, but we have eternity in heaven or hell. That's the choice. May the gospel go forth and may His Name be praised!

[@apilkey]

@@rz4128 I live in Alberta and churches are allowed to gather. There’s no persecution in Canada. No one is getting beheaded yet we’re simply being told to socially distance and wear masks. Big deal. If people think this is persecution they’re in for a rude awakening. I live in the exact same province as this guy no one is being prevented from gathering. The deal is this pastor is refusing to obey the laws of the land and to submit to the God given authority. No one is preventing this pastor from gathering. He’s simply refusing to obey the Alberta Health Services mandated Covid restrictions for social distancing and mask wearing. I went to church Sunday with zero issues just North of GraceLife. This is not the battle we’re called to fight. Christians aren’t called to fight mask wearing and social distancing. While I don’t agree with it we’re still not called to fight against it. It’s one thing to stand up for our Christian values and beliefs, and another thing to stand up against mask wearing. It’s a mask. We’re not getting our heads chopped off here. Go tell people who are getting beheaded for Christ how much you’re getting persecuted because you have to wear a mask and see if they sympathize with you.

[@nj8215]

@@apilkey you keep writting the same thing over and over but you are totally wrong in this situation. I know many people that have decided to not attend church at all because of all the nonsense restrictions that your church is following. It is doing more harm to the congregation. You must examine yourself and dont be a hypocrite to criticize Pastor James Coates.

[@jennifergeorge7280]

@@apilkey do you congregate before or after the service? If so, you are also in defiance of the health orders. I also go to church in Edmonton. We've gone to 3 services to "comply" but we fellowship, we hug, we sing. All of those things are against the current health orders. Realistically, most open churches are only complying to a degree. It just depends on the extent to which you are disobeying. It's nuanced, it's personal conviction. I, personally, don't think my pastor should go to these same lengths, but I am thankful and respectful to Pastor James for standing up for his convictions.

[@lillianhouse9215]

Thanks Lord all these happened for the glory of God. May many people be saved through these turmoils. We pray for pastor James and Grace life church. Stand firm and be strong in the Lord. God is with you all!🙏🙏🙏

[@Flossie-7]

Thank you, James for your example. Bless you.

[@connievictorious1736]

Excellent video! We said right from the beginning that it was wrong for the church to wear masks and stop singing. We personally refused to attend any church asking us to comply with this antiChrist actions. We began praying and asking God for a church and a bold loving Pastor like Pastor Coates, a true Shepherd. After patiently waiting and praying, God gave us a church (not Pastor Coates). We are blessed and again our faith in God has grown. Trust God fellow brothers and sisters, He will provide but remember we must stay obedient to Gods will also. Open the church Pastors and don’t force people to wear masks, please....

[@singtomeplease4585]

Thank you for posting, Allie! I live in ON and feel like a lot of "local" news is circulated on smaller outlets via iG, etc... with how much is being censored. God bless you, pastor James!

[@thundergrace]

Thank you James for your faithfulness and witness of the truth. You have been very encouraging and so thankful for you and yours and will be praying for you.

[@ohboy2]

As someone who lives in Alberta - this man does not deserve the hate and judgement he is receiving from people. We should have empathy for those who need to go to Chruch for their mental health and their workship. I don't even go to Church but fully support this paster and his path.

[@NattyG52]

May The Lord Bless You Pastor! You are a true Shepherd.....Praying for you here in the UK

[@harmonygordon6901]

Thank you for the work that you do. Will pray for you and your pregnancy. God bless you.

[@PackersDNA]

I am praying you you, my brothers and sisters in Christ. Stay bold as a lion!

[@butterflybeatles]

I love the title: James Coates Is Free but Now the Whole Church Is In Jail

[@sierramountain5700]

praying for you Pastor James! Shine for Jesus🙏🏽🙏🏽😊

[@carolberubee]

Some "protestors" (there is evidence they were undercover cops) tore down sections of the fencing around the church. Some GraceLife folks came along and peacefully helped to restore the fencing. The church met, as a whole, on Sunday at a private location. The first "C" in CCP can't be limited to China any more. The underground Church now exists in Canada. But praise God for bringing all this about. He knows what He's doing. The question is, what will we do? I hope we would all recognize that this is not our home, that the Church is a heavenly organism, the Body of Christ. The weapons of our warfare are not earthly.

[@jo9354]

Great points... and very well written. God has already won. Now it's up to us to acknowledge that fact.

[@apilkey]

There’s no persecution in Canada. No one is getting beheaded yet we’re simply being told to socially distance and wear masks. Big deal. If people think this is persecution they’re in for a rude awakening. I live in the exact same province as this guy no one is being prevented from gathering. The deal is this pastor is refusing to obey the laws of the land and to submit to the God given authority. No one is preventing this pastor from gathering. He’s simply refusing to obey the Alberta Health Services mandated Covid restrictions for social distancing and mask wearing. I went to church Sunday with zero issues just North of GraceLife. This is not the battle we’re called to fight. Christians aren’t called to fight mask wearing and social distancing. While I don’t agree with it we’re still not called to fight against it. It’s one thing to stand up for our Christian values and beliefs, and another thing to stand up against mask wearing.

[@carolberubee]

@@apilkey Imprisonment isn't persecution? Interesting. We are supposed to greet each other with a holy kiss and break bread together. We are supposed to minister to one another. The meeting of the church is not just hearing a "sermon." If you neglect those other elements, you're not doing it the way God has instructed. The government has no authority to dictate how the local church worships God.

[@apilkey]

@@carolberubee Again he was imprisoned because he refused to obey the Apostle Paul and what he said in Romans 13. So no it’s not persecution. That’s like saying if you get a speeding ticket then that’s persecution. Greeting one another with a literal kiss is NOT a commandment. No one is being prevented from doing communion. You’re grasping at straws now.

[@carolberubee]

@@apilkey Romans 13 does not give license to the govt. to dictate how a local church worships God. In Paul's day, there was a sedition party within the Church and Paul would have none of it. These folks wanted to overthrow the Roman Empire and, while they meant well, they didn't understand that the Church is a body of believers called out from the world. Paul instructs us to obey the govt. when the govt. makes sense. Traffic laws are not spiritual; therefore, we obey them. So long as the govt. stays in its lane (no pun intended), all is well, but when the govt. begins to define Christian worship as "illegal," they've overstepped their bounds. I'm not sure why Paul would have to tell us to "greet each other with a holy kiss" if all he meant was, "say hello to each other." Rather, there was something unique about his instruction. The meeting of the local church is not just another social gathering.

[@marybee5627]

THANK YOU Pastor James for your obedience to HIS calling on your life!! the CHURCH in Wisconsin is praying for you!!!

[@ElenaBaumann]

Praise God! How courageous we are when we know He is with us! What a privilege to suffer for His glory, for Christs sake! Our God is sovereign!

[@stephenoni2019]

Glory to God for Pastor James Coates!

[@StoriesFromTheNorthwoods]

church shines brighter in the darkest times!!!!!

[@gj5990]

💯 agree and I’m praying God brings much good in His Name through this. May God continue to strengthen you!

[@CindyBennett13]

The Lords Church . Prayers for more Churches to realize the truth

[@KaylaKrische]

Thank you so much for this episode Allie! What an encouragement!

[@sharonrose6210]

Thank the Lord for this pastor and those like him and the growth we are seeing in the true church!

[@vanessab2726]

This is one true man of God. God Bless you pastor Coates ❤️

[@bcm1621]

Praise God for faithful Pastors 🙌🙌

[@chieflan5]

I love that he shared the Gospel at the end. That is who this man of God is. Such a wonderful example!

[@rumblerowdy5332]

Must be a great church

[@williammacpherson6252]

YES AND THERE WORSHIP MUSIC IS CENTERED ON THE CHRIST SO NICE TO SEE SO MANY CHURCHES TODAY HAVE MAN CENTRED SINGING

[@jennifergeorge7280]

It had it's strengths and weaknesses, as do all congregations...but it is definitely one of the best in the city!

[@EternalDiet]

Praise the Lord for his courage. We all need same for little and or big issues where we feel or see threats against our obedience to any of God's commands.

[@lorrieweir6230]

Amen and amen! Let the church arise!

[@whateverislovely3537]

Glory to God!! Pastor James- sharing the gospel at every possible freaking opportunity!! HUGE respect. Huge. Thank you for your faithfulness. Q: how’d you get out? Did I miss that answer? Sooo many blessing Allie!! TFS!

[@GrayLegacyLaw]

So glad to hear from Pastor James about this ordeal. Bless the Lord for keeping him safe in jail.

[@rhynes1]

Go pastor! Keep going!

[@girlonfoot]

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!!

[@ramos4steven]

Thank you for your faithful man of God and the encouragement to endure and persevere. Come Lord Jesus, come!

[@walterbrannen1517]

We need to have a "preach Psalm 2 Sunday" in support and honor of the first underground church service last Sunday.

[@TGBTG7]

🙌🏻Thank you Pastor Coates for the amazing presentation of the gospel at the end of this video. We thank God for you and your family and pray that your witness will continue to bless the saved and draw the lost to seek our only hope!