Ask almost anyone what a church is, and you'll probably hear the same answer.

"A 501(c)(3) nonprofit."

It's such a common belief that most people never stop to question it.

But it's not accurate.

A church and a 501(c)(3) are not the same thing.

One is a religious institution.

The other is ...

The IRS's 14 Characteristics of a Church Aren't a Test. They're a Blueprint. 

One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is treating the IRS's 14 Characteristics of a Church like a checklist they have to survive.

"Do I have enough members?"

"Do I need a building?"

"What if I don't have ordain...

One of the biggest myths about churches is that they must ask the IRS for permission before they can exist.

That's not what the law says.

In fact, Congress carved out churches differently than virtually every other organization.

The Provision Most People Never Read

26 U.S.C. § 508(c)(1)(A) state...

If you've spent any time in the freedom community, you've probably heard about Private Membership Associations (PMAs) and Unincorporated Nonprofit Associations (UNAs).

They're often presented as the ultimate private structure.

And to be fair...

They're a huge step in the right direction.

But I w...

When you hear the word church, what comes to mind?

A building?

A pastor?

Sunday mornings?

A nonprofit asking for donations?

That's how most people have been taught to think about churches.

I believe that's one of the biggest misconceptions of our time.

What if a church isn't a place you go......

Tomorrow is Independence Day.

Which means today may be the last quiet day before the celebration begins.

Before the family shows up.

Before the grill gets lit.

Before the fireworks start.

Before the flag comes out.

Before everyone gathers to celebrate freedom without asking whether they are ac...

Most people assume that once they submit a passport application, the paperwork disappears into a government filing cabinet somewhere and is never seen again.

But what if that isn't the whole story?

What if the documents you submit become part of an official Department of State record?

And what if...