ONE CHURCH LEICESTER IS INTEGRAL TO THE BETHEL NAR DECEPTION

JESUS SAID - Won't He Go After The One // One Church Podcast, 3rd February 2026 | Podcasts

In the wake of Mike Winger’s exposés of Shawn Bolz, Todd White, and Benny Hinn, the wider pattern of unreliable NAR‑aligned prophetic ministries has drawn massive attention. The resulting fallout has prompted some believers to distance themselves from charismatic churches, citing disillusionment with dishonest practices, unbiblical standards and false teaching. Churches shaped by unsound teaching and dishonest practices inevitably generate damage to the body of Christ.

I have written several posts warning about One Church in Leicester (formerly Trinity Life Church), going back to 2007 when David Hind's controversial appointment generated huge problems within the congregation. One Church is part of the charismatic Assemblies of God denomination, whose historical record proves difficult to defend when subjected to serious scrutiny.*

Susan Hind's "sermon" begins with a lie: "I am a pastor". There is no such position as a female pastor biblically. If a church has a female pastor, it is completely outside the will of God.  

Susan Hind continues with a story by CS Lewis. Lewis held several convictions that sit well outside biblical orthodoxy that earned him the reputation of being a foundational voice of ecumenism. For instance, his Narnia narrative portrays salvation as accessible to those in other religions who remain unaware of Christ. Lewis dismissed "Penal Substitutionary Atonement" and embraced a "Christus Victor" reading that removes divine wrath from the cross entirely. These are substantial doctrinal departures.*

The Hinds have a subtle way of making believers feel perpetually deficient. There’s always another "breakthrough", another layer to “go deeper”. In reality, they replace the role of the Holy Spirit by creating functional dependency, implying that spiritual growth requires their personal intervention. While Christians should desire a deeper walk with God, this pattern is dangerous, particularly when it relies on subjective experience above scripture. The Hinds polished façade of spiritual maturity is only a mask, and their “prayers” are the last thing true believers should seek. A sincere pursuit of God doesn’t require chasing novelty; God leads His people into truth without the manufactured intensity others try to impose. (John 16:13). Scripture calls believers to pray for one another as a mutual practice, not a one‑way channel reserved for so‑called leaders (James 5:16).

Characteristics of NAR churches

Bethel Music: Mind-numbing, unbiblical mantras. Bethel Music serves as a Trojan horse for the NAR, introducing hazardous and unbiblical teachings into churches. Bethel’s own leaders acknowledge that their music is designed to bypass critical thought, creating openness to ideas people would otherwise reject if presented through direct teaching. They openly describe their songs as a strategic vehicle for spreading Bethel Church’s theology and practices into congregations around the world. For many, the music becomes the entry point into the wider New Apostolic Reformation—drawing them into events, conferences, and ultimately the movement’s doctrinal framework. This pathway often leaves individuals and families grappling with deep spiritual confusion and long‑term harm.

False prophecy: David Hind's failed "imminent revival" prophecy on the 1st of May 2022 has failed to come to pass. This is clear evidence that he is a false prophet.

David Hind (1st May 2022): "This is a fulfillment season, an outbreak season." 

(Deuteronomy 18:32; Ezekiel 13:13; Jeremiah 23:16; 2 Peter 2:1-3).

Revival: The revival mantra of false prophets collapses under biblical scrutiny. The New Testament prophesies rampant spiritual deception, apostasy, false prophets, lying signs and wonders, birth pains, and ultimately worldwide spiritual deception under the Antichrist. (Revelation 13:14). We should reject those who consistently prophesy "revival" or "awakening". False prophets tickle itching ears and tell people what they want to hear, not what they need to hear. (2 Timothy 4:3).

Platforming false prophets: Over the years the Hinds have platformed a number of false prophets, including Benny Hinn and Mark Stibbe. The latest example is false prophet Simon Braker.

Constant Touting for money: False leaders' constant appeals for money for large building projects are often couched in terms of their "vision". Wolves who constantly tout for money will suck believers dry financially and spiritually, given the chance.

Inflated Titles: David Hind’s self‑designation as an “apostolic leader of leaders”, and Susan Hind’s assumption of the title “pastor” and her claim to be “prophetic” represent claims to authority that lack substantive biblical grounding. Their presumption sits uneasily alongside the cautions in Galatians 6:3, Philippians 2:3, 1 Corinthians 8:2, Proverbs 26:12, and 1 Corinthians 13:4 regarding self‑importance and inflated self‑assessment.

Boasting: The Hinds incessant emphasis on their own accomplishments—presented as evidence of divine activity—functions as a self‑promotional pattern rather than as a substantive ministry. Their reliance on these formulas displaces any careful or responsible exposition of scripture.

Eisegesis: The Hinds appalling record of taking verses out of context and their poor exegesis is unacceptable. Those men aspiring to leadership positions within the church are unqualified if they lack a sound understanding of the scriptures. (Titus 1:9, 2:1; 1 Timothy 4:16; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). 

Lack of accountability: The Hinds leadership structure is sustained through nepotism and a close circle of associates, creating conditions that largely preclude meaningful accountability. This means that genuine complaints and grievances are likely to be blocked. Grievances at Bethel Church Redding were routinely dismissed under a distorted notion of “honour culture", in which leaders protected one another and left complainants without meaningful recourse. Reports indicate multiple individuals raised serious concerns at Bethel, and the documented cases fall far short of the large-scale claims often circulated.  

Ecumenism: False unity at the expense of sound doctrine. There is solid evidence that David Hind is ecumenical.

One Church ticks all the boxes for the NAR deception. One of their eight trustees is Philip Anthony John, "recently registered", who is also a trustee of NAR false Prophet Simon Baker's Legacy International Ministries.1  Braker has a close association with false prophet Emma Stark, leader of the Global Prophetic Alliance. This is a direct confirmation of One Church's close association and involvement with the NAR cult and is a huge red flag.  

,

Academia: "The Assemblies of God’s structural flaws have fueled decades of instability, moral failure, and shallow discipleship. Rooted in revivalistic traditions, the movement often prioritizes emotional highs over lasting biblical governance. Scripture calls for a congregational presbyterian model—plurality of qualified local elders, shared authority, and deep accountability—to safeguard the church and foster true maturity. Without this reform, the AOG and broader Pentecostalism itself will continue its cycle of rise-and-collapse, forfeiting the stability and fruitfulness Christ intended."2 

1. LEGACY MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL - 1209174
2. (30) Assemblies of God: Scandals and Intentional Instability: A Hope for Repentance and Reform

* Assemblies of God - William Branham Historical Research
* The Apostasy of C.S. Lewis

The skeletons in Bethel's closet are now going to speak

KRIS VALLOTTON'S BLASPHEMOUS CLAIM OF AN ENCOUNTER WITH THE ARCHANGEL MICHAEL

God is not mocked. (Galatians 6:7)

Kris Vallotton's alleged encounter with the Archangel Michael! This is a sample of Vallotton's appalling irreverence and blasphemy against angelic beings. Mark and avoid the disqualified blasphemers at Bethel Church, Redding. (Romans 16:17-18). Bob Jones plethora of occult visions, unbiblical teachings and false prophecies should also be rejected.1

Bold and willful, they do not tremble as they blaspheme the glorious ones, whereas angels, though greater in might and power, do not pronounce a blasphemous judgment against them before the Lord. But these, like irrational animals, creatures of instinct, born to be caught and destroyed, blaspheming about matters of which they are ignorant, will also be destroyed in their destruction, suffering wrong as the wage for their wrongdoing. They count it pleasure to revel in the daytime. They are blots and blemishes, revelling in their deceptions while they feast with you. They have eyes full of adultery, insatiable for sin. They entice unsteady souls. They have hearts trained in greed. Accursed children! Forsaking the right way, they have gone astray. They have followed the way of Balaam, the son of Beor, who loved gain from wrongdoing, but was rebuked for his own transgression; a speechless donkey spoke with human voice and restrained the prophet’s madness. (2 Peter 2:10-16 cf. Jude 1:8-10).

1. Bob Jones - Apologetics Index

MIKE WINGER FACILITATING BETHEL'S CORRUPT THEOLOGY

An Important Letter from Bill, Kris, and Dann on Behalf of Bethel Leadership | Bethel

Mike Winger’s recent exposé of Shawn Bolz cuts both ways. It is, on one hand, a precise and devastating indictment of Bethel’s leadership and the wider NAR movement. However, his proposal to "restore" false prophets goes beyond what is written, and that overreach carries its own accountability. (Proverbs 30:5-6). In practice, Winger’s approach gives Bethel Church Redding further cover to draw unwary believers deeper into its theological snare. Those who call out false prophets have no business proposing their “restoration” or reforming the false ministries that enable them. That kind of presumption is not righteous. 

In scripture, false prophecy is not treated as a “mistake” but as a disqualifying act that reveals a deeper corruption of character and allegiance. The Bible gives no category for "restoring” a false prophet to ministry. It consistently treats false prophecy as a disqualifying, covenant‑breaking offence, not a lapse that can be rehabilitated. In the Old Testament, false prophecy is treated as a capital offence, not a recoverable mistake. Deuteronomy teaches that a prophet who speaks presumptuously in God’s name is not merely "misguided”—he is to be removed entirely from the community’s spiritual authority ..that same prophet shall die. (Deuteronomy 18:20). Jeremiah's warning is very apt in the current situation: ..you have made this people trust in a lie. (Jeremiah 28:15).

In the New Testament, false prophets are described as wolves. (Matthew 7:15). Wolves are not sheep (believers); they are to be identified and removed from the flock. The scriptural emphasis is on discernment and protection, not restoration to office. (Matthew 7:15-16).

Peter warns that false teachers ..secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction. (2 Peter 2:1). The focus is on their danger to the body of Christ and God’s judgment—not their rehabilitation. There are models for restoring sinning believers to fellowship, but never for restoring false prophets. (Galatians 6:1; James 5:19-20).

Doug Geivett recently drew attention to the definition of "cover up".1 A "cover-up" is a deliberate effort to prevent people from discovering the truth about something bad. In other words, the term “cover‑up” inherently presumes knowledge and culpability. In their statement, Bill Johnson and Kris Vallotton admit to failure, misjudgment, blindness, and folly. What they do not confront is the core allegation itself: that they knowingly covered up Shawn Bolz's blatant sins. 

It should be noted that Shawn Bolz is the tip of the iceberg at Bethel. Chris Vallotton is himself a false prophet. Vallotton insists that he is not a false prophet and refers to his failed Trump prophecy in 2020 as an "inaccurate prophetic word" that he has had to "process".2 Bethel has platformed data-mining fraud Chris Reed, and cold reader Paul Cain, along with many false prophets, including Bob Jones, Ché Ahn, Mike Bickle, Todd Bentley, Ben Fitzgerald, etc. We can add fake glory clouds, fake gold dust, fake angel feathers, fake fire tunnels, as well as Sozo inner healing, grave sucking and all manner of false teaching and lying signs. The evidence is overwhelming: Bethel is a counterfeit church that is incapable of true repentance or restoration. As I heard one teacher say, "Heresy cannot be reformed". 

Vallotton's rapid change of perspective since his manipulative message on the 19th of January is due to an alleged "encounter with the Lord".3 In other words, the backlash was so great that he and Bill Johnson had no alternative but to come clean about their part in Shawn Bolz's spiritual fraud and abuse. Vallotton has already been caught red-handed lying in Winger's video, and he gives us no reason to believe or trust anything he says. It would be naive in the extreme to believe that Bethel's leadership have anything of value to offer the body of Christ. 

Forgiveness does not reinstate abusive leaders. Scripture commands us to release personal vengeance to God, but it never returns disqualified men to positions they have forfeited. Forgiveness may be extended, but fitness for ministry remains a separate matter, and trust cannot be rebuilt on sentiment.

What, exactly, does Winger aim to achieve by claiming a mandate to restore false prophets—a mandate scripture never grants? Some say he has poor discernment, but that doesn't make any sense. One of my concerns about Winger was the missing receipts for his Todd White exposé four months ago. However, he has recently, albeit belatedly, provided that much-needed evidence.4  Further concerns are his collaboration with false teacher Torben Sondergaard5 and also his association with TPUSA and ecumenism. Winger claims he wants us to "think biblically", yet the inconsistencies are impossible to ignore. I remain wary of Mike Winger. 

I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. (Romans 16:17-18).

1. Apostolic Covering to Corrupt Coverup: Swapping Spiritual Protection for Systemic Deceit at Bethel
2. How I Processed My Inaccurate Prophetic Word (Your Top Questions Answered)
3. Bethel Church Service | Kris Vallotton Sermon 

4. I Can Finally Show You The Evidence

5. The Predator of Panama: Evangelist Steve Koko

Bethel’s Silence on Shawn Bolz: Carelessness or Cover-Up?

LAURA-LYNN TYLER THOMPSON'S FAULTY DISCERNMENT

 (13) laura-lynn tyler thompson - search results | Facebook

25th January 2026

Laura-Lynn Tyler Thompson:

"I had another post ready to go, but then this …
Bethel repenting today. Kris Valloton crying stating he can’t imagine if his own son had been victimized by the predator. Saying he got It wrong. Stating they will never again say that the person they put on the platform… 'It’s not our responsibility.' Stating they have been doing a deep dive into how they got this so wrong. Thank you.
As some leaders in Canada celebrated Bethel’s errant position, It betryed their ignorance and how they have done the very same thing here in Canada and it’s all going to come home to roost.
Kris goes on to say that he hopes the church becomes a safe and godly place. Yes, that is what it has always supposed to have been. My only struggle is that this was so obvious, and these leaders at Bethel missed it so badly, that we have to question …what is the root of this brutal error? What is wrong at the core of many Mega church establishments, where personality has become more important than character? One thing is the lack of concern for victims. This is happening in Canada right now with Art Lucier and the wolf pack who protect him. Five indigenous women with verbal allegations and two in the courts. Those of us who have spoken up have been called horrible names and disregarded as toilet water.
Bill Johnson took the stage and I believe him. I see repentance. I see godly sorrow, and it brought tears to my eyes. Bill was honest that he feels foolish and does not know how he didn’t see it. He broke as he asked for forgiveness. I give him forgiveness.
We do not want to see Shawn Bolz on a stage ever again. He is clearly a predator. The grace of God that we feel we must operate in, cannot surpass the standards of God’s Word. There are now men who will be traumatized and have PTSD possibly for the rest of their lives because of what SB did. We don’t want one more fake word or any opportunity given to him to hurt anyone else. Victims should investigate if they have criminal charges they can press against him and civil suits should follow.
I appreciate KRIS and Bill Johnson doing something the church needed to see today. I’m grateful and I forgive you."

Laura-Lynn left Daystar at the end of November 2024.1  Almost immediately, she launched into her present discernment ministry. I believe this move was premature and very unwise. Now we see her affirming the "repentance" of Kris Vallotton and Bill Johnson. In my view, she does not have the wisdom or discernment to fully comprehend the wickedness of false NAR leaders. We are all learning, but I personally don't like to see Laura-Lynn launching into naive views based on what she "sees". Normally, it takes a lengthy time of NAR deconstruction, intensive study and prayer before speaking out against false teachers. It would be a good idea for Laura-Lynn to take a step back and to seek wise counsel. When the bible refers to "wolves", it means that they are not sheep, i.e. they are not believers. If Johnson and Vallotton have truly repented, they would step down from their so-called "ministries".

I recently sent Laura-Lynn a message and a link warning about false teacher Joel Richardson, whom she endorses. However, she did not reply. Richardson was launched into ministry by false prophet Paul Cain.2  I have written a number of posts exposing Richardson's false teaching.*

In December 2024, Laura-Lynn publicly affirmed and interviewed false "apostle" Amanda Grace (Ark of Grace Ministries).3  

Laura-Lynn initially endorsed Art Lucier and attended his church even though she was warned that he was a false prophet.4

Frankly, I am concerned that Laura-Lynn endorses false teachers and influences others to do likewise. I will give her the benefit of the doubt and say that this is probably due to her naivety and lack of maturity. However, her discernment is unsound and should not be trusted. (1 John 4:1).

1. Canadian Broadcaster Pulls Program from Daystar Due to ‘Ethical Deficits’
2. WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: JOEL RICHARDSON ENDORSES PAUL CAIN # CHARISMANIA!
3. Amanda Grace: The Word of the Lord for Daystar
WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: DAYSTAR: AMANDA GRACE "PROPHET" THE VULTURES ARE CIRCLING.
4. Wolves in Canada: Art Lucier Scandal and Its Apostolic Defenders | Laura Lynn Tyler Thompson | 462 - video Dailymotion

* WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: Search results for joel richardson

THE PAUL CAIN TAPES AND THE HORRENDOUS HISTORY OF CHARISMANIA

This mindblowing exposé from Leaving the Message lays bare the long‑standing patterns of corruption within the charismatic movement. Anyone still clinging to the idea that the NAR is a legitimate movement will find that position insupportable on the evidence presented. 

John and Charles examine a newly surfaced transcript involving Paul Cain and Chuck Smith that exposes how leadership power functioned behind the scenes of the charismatic movement. The discussion traces how the same figures moved from Foursquare to Calvary Chapel, Vineyard, and ultimately the New Apostolic Reformation, carrying the same control structures with them. 

The conversation explores how recordings, private confessions, and reputation management became tools for enforcing silence, shaping narratives, and protecting movements at critical moments. By following the historical trail from the 1950s healing revival through the 1980s and beyond, the episode reveals how spiritual authority often operated less through doctrine and more through leverage.

MIKE WINGER: SHAWN BOLZ AND FALSE PROPHETS

The skeletons in Bethel's closet are now going to speak

The above is a detailed video lasting almost six hours that exposes false prophet Shawn Bolz. We might hail Winger as the hero of the day for exposing false teachers. However, I have reservations about Winger's ministry for reasons summarised below.

> Winger's attempt to devise a mechanism for reinstating discredited prophets to ministry is unbiblical. At the beginning of this video, he says that he is "hoping to bring positive reform into the charismatic church." Scripture treats false prophecy as a disqualifying act, not a recoverable error, and offers no basis for restoring false prophets to office. (2 Timothy 3:13).

> His attendance at the Charlie Kirk memorial and his further involvement and endorsement of TPUSA and ecumenism.
> His announcement that he was "changing" and was considering involvement in the gospel, combined with political activism.
> His endorsement of NAR heretics as recently as 2022, and his affirmation of Todd White as "sincere" and a "brother in Christ". 

> He has called for the death of Muslims in Nigeria. For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Is it not those inside the church whom you are to judge? (1 Corinthians 5:12-13).

For full details, see my previous posts.*

In Winger’s latest video, the issue of anonymous whistleblowers doesn’t arise; he cites a number of named witnesses. Bolz has already been exposed by several ministries, but Winger introduces additional, previously unheard information, and it is useful that it is consolidated in one place. His platform is sizable, and despite my reservations, there is at least the possibility that this video will jolt sincere believers entangled in the NAR to their senses.

NAR false prophets/teachers Bill Johnson, Kris Vallotton, Ché Ahn, Patricia King, Heidi Baker, etc., are a pack of wolves. It is well documented that Bethel Redding manufactures fake glory clouds, fake gold dust, fake angel feathers, fake fire tunnels, as well as practising grave sucking and all manner of false teaching and lying signs. Given their previous history, why is Winger shocked that Vallotton lied and is part of the deception and cover-up culture? 

Winger: "This desire Bethel has to restore fallen leaders is itself a good desire; it doesn't play out without cover-up culture. That's the problem."  (03:20 mark) 

Winger's conclusion: "My call for extreme action from Charismatic leaders." (5:39 mark).

"My call to Charismatic leaders is that you have to call them (false prophets) all out.. The one thing that is going to cleanse the world in the Charismatic world is the truth.. I hope there is real change. I hope there is real reform. I do believe it can happen, but it would take such a change of the structure that you guys would be calling out your own foundations as false. That's what it is going to take, and I will champion you if you do that."  

Winger misses the obvious: he is dealing with savage wolves, not wayward colleagues. His critique assumes that false prophet Kris Vallotton and other leaders at Bethel ought to have acted responsibly—exposing Bolz and safeguarding the wider church. But wolves do what wolves do; they are predatory, not protective. Expecting integrity from them, or appealing to a conscience already cauterised (1 Timothy 4:2), is futile. Scripture warns that such figures prioritise their own image over the truth. They cloak themselves in piety and claim divine authority, yet their words mislead, and their influence draws the undiscerning off course. It is not biblical to call for reform in this extreme situation; anyone who is truly saved needs to come out of this demonic environment. Biblically, the only action to take against false prophets and their enablers is to mark and avoid them. (Romans 16:17-18). In the Old Testament, false prophets were put to death. (Deuteronomy 18:20). In the New Testament, believers are commanded to mark and avoid (ἐκκλίνετε) false prophets/teachers. This is not optional; ἐκκλίνετε is a present imperative active verb.

I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to admonish every one with tears. (Acts 20:29-31).

Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits. (Matthew 7:15-20).

See also 2 Peter 2:1; 1 John 4:1; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15; 1 Timothy 4:1-2; 2 Timothy 3:5; Jeremiah 23:16; Ezekiel 22:28).

The popularity of NAR prophets is itself a warning sign. Jeremiah faced the same dynamic with the "court prophets"—men who delivered only the pleasant messages people preferred to hear. The NAR figures who cluster around Donald Trump illustrate the pattern clearly: they tell their audience exactly what it wants to hear. As Paul warned, some will always gravitate toward teachers who cater to itching ears. (2 Timothy 4:3).

Michael Grant argues that the solution is to simply abandon the charismatic gifts altogether—essentially, a full embrace of cessationism.1 The difficulty with that claim is that scripture affirms the ongoing reality of prophecy and other spiritual gifts, while also providing safeguards for their use. The biblical emphasis is not on shutting the gifts down, but on exercising discernment.

1. The Problem w/ Mike Winger's "Discernment" & Why Exposing Shawn Bolz ISNT' ENOUGH!

* WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: Search results for winger
Topical Bible: God's Judgment on False Prophets
(188) Mike Winger's Non-Discernment - YouTube
The Paul Cain Tapes: How Spiritual Blackmail Shaped the Charismatic Movement | 517

SIMON BRAKER FALSE PROPHET: BAPTISM WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT AND FIRE

Jak manifestować Bożą moc? | PS Simon Braker | NOF Church

(How to manifest God's power)

There are a number of warnings to take out of this disastrous teaching from NAR false teacher Simon Braker, who describes himself as a "prophetic apostolic minister".1  Braker is closely associated with false apostle Emma Stark and is part of the British Isles Council of Prophets.  

Braker promotes the idea that the baptism of the Holy Spirit is a distinct, subsequent experience rather than the believer’s reception of the Spirit on conversion. His proof text is Acts 19:2, a verse that NAR charismatics misrepresent.   

And he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” And they said, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” (Acts 19:2). 

Acts 19:2 exposes a group whose grasp of the faith had never progressed beyond John the Baptist’s message. Paul’s question uncovers their deficiency: true New Covenant faith assumes the reception of the Holy Spirit at conversion. Their ignorance prompts Paul to proclaim the full gospel, leading to their baptism in Jesus’ name and the Spirit’s immediate, observable arrival. This episode underscores that salvation and the Spirit’s indwelling are an integral part of conversion, revealing God’s commitment to equip every genuine believer with His empowering presence. This group exactly corresponds to that of Apollos when he arrived at Ephesus, who knew only the baptism of John. (Acts 18:24-26).

Ephesians 1:13-14: In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory. 

Acts 2:38–39: And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.”

Titus 3:4–7: “But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing (λουτροῦ) of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.”

Acts 10:46-48: Then Peter declared, “Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to remain for some days. 

In his bid to promote the alleged "baptism of fire", Braker isolates Matthew 4:11 and builds an entire doctrine around it, claiming a separate experience, supposedly reserved for believers who have sacrificed and endured difficult trials. I reject this teaching outright. His slogan, "no fire falls where there is no sacrifice", is simply an attempt to spiritualise trials into a false hierarchy of Christians. The New Testament never presents “fire” as a separate, subsequent baptism. When believers are genuinely converted, they receive the Holy Spirit —Acts 1:4–5; 2:4, 38–39; 10:44–46; and passages like John 7:39 and 14:16–17 all point consistently in that direction.  

I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and gather his wheat into the barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.” (Matthew 3:11-12).

As the people were in expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Christ, John answered them all, saying, “I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.” (Luke 3:15-17).

Reliable commentators refer to two possible interpretations for baptism with fire.  

One view is that the “fire” refers to the trials all genuine believers inevitably face. Chris Quintana of Old Path Theology argues persuasively that this fire represents the purifying work of the Holy Spirit, i.e. the "refining fire" described in passages such as Zechariah 13:9 and Malachi 3:2. Quintana develops this theme in his teaching on Matthew 3:4–12 – Matthew 3:4-12 The Fascinating Ministry Of John The Baptist. (54:00 mark)   

Caleb Corneloup iThink Biblically argues that the fire in Matthew 3:11 points to judgment of the wicked.– https://youtu.be/CvTcYNswSgw John the Baptist was addressing a mixed audience—those sincerely seeking repentance and baptism, and the Pharisees who came under his rebuke. (Matthew 3:5–7). Throughout Scripture, fire is a common metaphor for divine judgment, and the verse itself separates “the Holy Spirit” and “fire”. Many commentators note that “baptism” isn’t confined to water baptism or the baptism of the Holy Spirit; the term can also signify immersion into an ordeal. Mark 10:38 refers to the suffering Jesus is about to undergo as a "baptism".

Overall, I find Quintana’s interpretation more convincing, though Corneloup’s perspective is shared by others and is worth weighing. 

Braker's misinterpretation of Jesus temptation in Matthew 4:1-6

Braker: "It's important that you understand this. The devil didn't say to Jesus 'if you are the Son of God''''. That wasn't what he said. What the devil said to Jesus, 'since you are the Son of God'. That's what it literally means in the Greek.. The devil was tempting Jesus to live independently of the Father.. do you want the fire?" (59:00 mark) This strikes at the core of Braker’s misguided “fire” doctrine. The devil’s bold provocation was an attempt to tempt Jesus into proving his divine identity. Scripture teaches that resisting temptation deepens faith, builds endurance, and shapes maturity—not that it results in a "baptism of fire". (1 Peter 1:6–7; James 1:2–4; Romans 5:3–5).

In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased." The Spirit immediately drove (ἐκβάλλω) him out into the wilderness. And he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. And he was with the wild animals, and the angels were ministering to him. (Mark 1 9-13).

ἐκβάλλω > From ek and ballo; to eject (literally or figuratively) -- bring forth, cast (forth, out), drive (out), expel, leave, pluck (pull, take, thrust) out, put forth (out), send away (forth, out). The term suggests a forceful action, indicating that Jesus was compelled by the Spirit. This is a stronger term than "led" (ἀνήχθη) in Matthew 4:1 and Luke 4:1.

And the tempter came and said to him, “If (Εἰ) you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” (Matthew 4:3; Luke 4:9 ).

Εἰ > If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc 

1487 ei (a conditional conjunction) – if. 1487 /ei (followed by any verb) expresses "a condition, thought of as real, or to denote assumptions" (i.e. viewed as factual. for the sake of argument) (BAGD). Accordingly, 1487 (ei) should not be translated "since," but rather always "if" – since the assumption may only be portrayed as valid (true, factual).

Meyer: "εἰ] does not indicate that Satan had doubts of Jesus being the Son of God (Origen, Wolf, Bengel), or was not aware of it (Ignat. Phil. interpol. 9), comp. Matthew 28:20; but the problematical expression was to incite Jesus to enter upon the unreasonable demand, and to prove Himself the Son of God."3

Tongues of Fire

When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of (ὡσεὶ) fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. (Acts 2:1-4).

The divided tongues appeared like fire, and they rested on, i.e. they did not indwell believers.

γλῶσσαι ὡσεὶ πυρός, tongues as or like fire.. ὡσεὶ (hōsei) > as if it were fire or like fire.... an adverb.. a  metaphor  e.g. Matthew 3:16 "like a dove" or "like sheep" Matthew 9:36 etc.

The day of Pentecost was a singular, unrepeatable moment—the birth of the church. Scripture presents it as a one‑time event, not something that recurs.

Divine Healing and first person prophecy

Braker: "The Lord said to me today that there is a gift He wants to give you.. We already know that some of the disciples didn't even know that there was a Holy Spirit, so there was something available to them that thy weren't living in the good of. ..healing has already been provided.."

The early church experienced a tension: the scriptures affirm that God heals, yet believers still fall ill. Even some of Paul’s most trusted coworkers suffered illness, demonstrating that healing is not a badge of spiritual rank. The habit of blaming the sick—accusing them of hidden sin or insufficient faith when healing doesn’t occur—has wounded many sincere Christians.

The New Testament never endorses formulaic methods or a one‑size‑fits‑all theology. We are called to > Pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer and petition. (Ephesians 6:18). We should never presume upon God or treat healing as an automatic entitlement.

No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments. (1 Timothy 5:23).

Erastus remained at Corinth, and I left Trophimus, who was ill, at Miletus. (2 Timothy 4:20).

I have thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need, for he has been longing for you all and has been distressed because you heard that he was ill. Indeed he was ill, near to death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. (Philippians 2:25–30).

Phrases like "The Lord said to me” are employed by false prophets to play the frequently used “God told me” trump card, particularly in NAR‑leaning prophetic circles. Whenever we hear claims like this, scripture commands us to test the spirits. (1 John 4:1).

Braker often directs his audience to echo specific words or phrases, a tactic that functions as spiritual manipulation. This strategy is designed to bypass discernment and secure compliance. Believers should refuse to be drawn into any practice that trades independent thought for manufactured agreement.

Once again, I urge anyone attending churches influenced by NAR teachings to exercise discernment regarding Simon Braker and other false teachers, and to remain diligent in testing the spirits.

1. Legacy Ministries International
2. Strong's Greek: 1487. εἰ (ei) -- if, whether, thoughzzz
3. Matthew 4:3 Commentaries: And the tempter came and said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread."
4. Greek Concordance: ὡσεὶ (hōsei) -- 21 Occurrences