Who is TD Jakes?
TD Jakes is a well-known American pastor, author, and filmmaker. He is the senior pastor of The Potter’s House, a non-denominational megachurch in Dallas, Texas. He is also the founder of TDJ Enterprises, which publishes his books and produces his films. He has written over 40 books, including bestsellers such as Woman, Thou Art Loosed! and He-Motions. He has also produced and starred in several movies, such as Woman Thou Art Loosed, Not Easily Broken, and Jumping the Broom. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential Christian leaders in the world
Why are people asking if TD Jakes is dead?
Recently, some false reports on social media claimed that TD Jakes had passed away, causing unwarranted alarm among his followers and the wider audience. The rumors started after a blogger posted a screenshot of a fake news article that said TD Jakes had died of a heart attack. The screenshot was accompanied by a caption that read, “RIP TD Jakes. You will be missed.” The blogger also tagged Sean “Diddy” Combs, a rapper and entrepreneur, in the post, implying that he had something to do with TD Jakes’ death
The blogger later admitted that the post was a prank and that he had no ill intentions towards TD Jakes or Diddy. He said he was just trying to get attention and make people laugh. He apologized for his actions and deleted the post. However, by then, the screenshot had already gone viral and many people believed that TD Jakes was really dead. Some even expressed their condolences and tributes to the pastor on social media
How did TD Jakes respond to the rumors?
TD Jakes was quick to dispel the rumors and assure his fans that he was alive and well. He posted a video on his Instagram account, where he said, “I’m not dead. I’m alive. I’m well. I’m blessed. I’m grateful. I’m thankful. I’m here.” He also thanked his supporters for their prayers and love, and urged them to be careful about what they read and share online. He said, “Don’t let the internet rush you to the cemetery. Don’t let the internet rush you to the hospital. Don’t let the internet rush you to anything. Verify everything before you perpetuate it.” He also joked that he was not going to sue the blogger who started the rumor, but he was going to pray for him
What is the lesson from this incident?
This incident shows how easily misinformation can spread on the internet and how it can affect people’s lives. It also shows how important it is to check the facts and sources before believing or sharing anything online. As TD Jakes said, “The internet is a powerful tool, but it can also be a dangerous weapon. Use it wisely and responsibly.”