christianity much differently than many of their christians. using venomous snakes as part of their service. why? they point to the new testament, the gospel of mark. it's stated in part, they shall take up serpents. believers say when god anoints them, they have an obligation to do this, and god will protect them. even if they are bitten, their belief is god will heal them. no doctors necessary. if it looks dangerous, that's because it is. it's also illegal in the state of tennessee. but that only strengthens the pastor's conviction. snake handling in churches is a tradition in decline. >> it's against the law to have snakes in a church in tennessee. does that concern you? >> no, sir, it doesn't. if someone wants to get bit and die, i know the authorities would come in on us and shut us down. that's why i stress so much to my people to make sure. if it's their appointed time to die, there's nothing i can do to prevent it.