Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.You will recognize them by their fruits (Matthew 7/15-16)
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Showing posts with label Bethel Church Redding. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bethel Church Redding. Show all posts
Mike Winger posted this video last night and I want to show support for him. I regard Bill Johnson and Kris Vallotton (Bethel Church Redding) as very dangerous false teachers. I thought that Mike was too soft on them in his original video, but I understand that he seeks to show grace to everyone. It is difficult to find the right balance, but I sometimes think that Mike could be tougher on false teachers. The Wingnut did not do his homework, but this is fairly typical of those suffering from blind devotion to John MacArthur.
Update
This apology from Tim has done a lot to put matters right and I do applaud him for his apology and humility. As far as I am aware, it is unknown for any of MacArthur's sycophants to redress their wrongdoings. I will never agree with Calvinism, but I have warmed to Tim somewhat. This video does address the weaknesses in Mike Winger's teaching in a much more balanced way.
The above videos with Calvinists Justin Peters and Joel Webbon (Right Response Ministries) outline three objective reasons why churches should stop using Bethel and Hillsong music in their worship services:
1. Bethel and Hillsong are not true churches.
2. By using Bethel and Hillsong music, you are subjecting weaker members of your body to heresy.
3. Even the non-heretical songs by Bethel and Hillsong still are not theologically robust enough to combat the idolatry and heresy that already exists
Justin Peters' view that both Bethel and Hillsong are non-Christian cults is correct. In these two videos Justin Peters' distills the false beliefs of the Word-Faith/Charismatic/New Apostolic Reformation cults and focuses on their over-realized eschatology and their presumption in making false declarations out of sync with the scriptures.
One of the problems of these cults is a mistranslation of Philippians 2:6-7: ..who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped (harpagmos), but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.
These heretical cults misinterpret harpagmos (verse 6) to diminish the deity of Jesus Christ during his earthly ministry. They teach that Jesus divested Himself of His deity and they claim that He was only empowered by the Holy Spirit. These charlatans go on to claim that Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to replicate the incarnation in believers. This teaching goes hand in hand with their false "little gods" theology. Jesus did not divest Himself of his deity, He had full equality with the Father during his earthly ministry, but His divinity was often veiled or concealed and not perceived for the most part (with rare exceptions [Matthew 16:16-17,17:2]). The true interpretation of harpagmos is the act of seizing or the thing seized, especially an open display of force. {1}
Pulpit Commentary: "Verse 7. - But made himself of no reputation; rather, as R.V., but emptied himself; not, he indeed, of the Godhead, which could not be, but of its manifestation, its glory. {2}
These cults claim to do the very thing that even Jesus Christ did not do during His earthly ministry, though He was divine; they presume to seize their imagined equality with God and claim to work various signs through the power of the Holy Spirit. These blasphemous beliefs have resulted in experiential Christianity minus sound doctrine, a constant flow of false prophesies, false (manufactured) signs and fake healings.
Bethel/Hillsong Music
Churches are legally obliged to pay royalties to Bethel/Hillsong/Elevation under CCLI Agreements when they use their materials. Every time churches use these materials, they are not only monetizing these blasphemers, they are propagating their false theological system. By doing so, many church leaders are working to the detriment of the true faith and promoting a different Jesus, a different spirit and a different gospel. (2 Corinthians 11:4). Bethel/Hillsong materials are the snare that pulls unsuspecting believers into the NAR Antichrist heretical system. It should not be necessary to remind pastors and elders that their primary responsibility is to protect the flock, not to expose them to the wolves! (Titus 1:9).
Is Calvinism the Answer?
Many are persuaded that Calvinist Justin Peters has his theology all sorted out, but the truth is that the Calvinist (Reformed) camp have crippling doctrinal errors in their own right. Not least of these is the despicable doctrine of limited atonementi.e. the belief that Jesus did not die for the sins of the whole world i.e. for everyone.. for all.. for whosoever is a wicked distortion of the scriptures. (John 3:16, 5:24). Calvinism's determinism diminishes the gospel of Jesus Christ and causes inestimable damage to many believers. The spiritual torment that many suffer under this heavy burden causes some to actually give up because they fail to find the answer to the question: How do I know absolutely that I am saved and part of the elect? Those believers of a sensitive disposition who find themselves ensnared in the Reformed camp are often tortured with the nagging doubt that they may be reprobate and not really elect. Determinism or "the secret will of God", based on Deuteronomy 29:29, defies a satisfactory answer, and so many are left in a swamp of hopelessness and despair. This is not God's will for believers! No Christian should allow this wicked doctrine to destroy their joy and peace in Jesus Christ. (Galatians 5:22).
The mantra of the Reformed camp is the Westminster Confession of Faith.
The Westminster Confession: "God, from all eternity, did, by the most wise and holy counsel of his own will, freely, and unchangeably ordain whatsoever comes to pass: yet so, as thereby neither is God the author of sin, nor is violence offered to the will of the creatures; nor is the liberty or contingency of second causes taken away, but rather established." (3.1)
Right Response Ministries: "Limited Atonement We believe that in the mercy and justice of God the Father, he was not willing to subjugate his Son to suffer under his wrath on behalf of those whom he had not decreed to save. We affirm that Christ freely laid down his life for all of his sheep who are promised to hear his voice and respond to his call. Therefore, not a single drop of Christ’s blood will ever be found to have been wasted in Hell. (Luke 19:10, John 6:35-40, John 10:11-18, John 17:1-11, Romans 5:8-10, Colossians 1:21-22, Galatians 3:13, Hebrews 9:12)" {3}
Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life. (John 5:24).
He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. (1 John 2:2).
Frankly I don't know which is worse, Charismania or Calvinism. Believers would do far better to reject both extremes and study the scriptures for themselves. (Romans 16:17; 2 Timothy 2:15).
Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust, who does not turn to the proud, to those who go astray after a lie! (Psalm 40:4).
The false prophets of today have much in common with the prophets of Baal.. they declare and decree, they double down, they moan, they cry aloud, they rant and rave, they blow shofars, they even roar, but there is still no answer! This is a salutary lesson for anyone who professes to follow Jesus Christ.
Then Elijah said to the prophets of Baal, “Choose for yourselves one bull and prepare it first, for you are many, and call upon the name of your god, but put no fire to it.” And they took the bull that was given them, and they prepared it and called upon the name of Baal from morning until noon, saying, “O Baal, answer us!” But there was no voice, and no one answered. And they limped around the altar that they had made. And at noon Elijah mocked them, saying, “Cry aloud, for he is a god. Either he is musing, or he is relieving himself, or he is on a journey, or perhaps he is asleep and must be awakened.” And they cried aloud and cut themselves after their custom with swords and lances, until the blood gushed out upon them. And as midday passed, they raved on until the time of the offering of the oblation, but there was no voice. No one answered; no one paid attention. 1 Kings 18:25-29).
The ecumenical Jericho Marches replayed Joshua 6:1-27 in a failed attempt to twist God's arm into reversing the US election result.
Novus Ordo Watch: The Jericho Marches are also a unified celebration of authentic and diverse Judeo-Christian forms [of] worship including praying, chanting, preaching, singing, rosary recitations, Eucharistic processions, and blowing shofars." {1}
Charisma News: People of faith marched before gathering at 11 a.m. on the National Mall for the "Let the Church ROAR" Prayer Rally where they heard from guest speakers such as Lt. Gen. Mike Flynn, Pastor Jonathan Cahn, Kevin Jessip, author Eric Metaxas, CEO of MyPillow Mike Lindell and many more. {2}
The scriptures warn repeatedly about false prophets:
You shall walk after the LORD your God and fear him and keep his commandments and obey his voice, and you shall serve him and hold fast to him. But that prophet or that dreamer of dreams shall be put to death, because he has taught rebellion against the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt and redeemed you out of the house of slavery, to make you leave the way in which the LORD your God commanded you to walk. So you shall purge the evil from your midst. (Deuteronomy 13:4-5).
The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests rule by their own authority. My people love it so, but what will you do in the end? (Jeremiah 5:31)
And the LORD said to me: “The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I did not send them, nor did I command them or speak to them. They are prophesying to you a lying vision, worthless divination, and the deceit of their own minds. (Jeremiah 14:14).
Thus says the LORD of hosts: “Do not listen to the words of the prophets who prophesy to you, filling you with vain hopes. They speak visions of their own minds, not from the mouth of the LORD. (Jeremiah 23:16).
They have seen false visions and lying divinations. They say, ‘Declares the LORD,’ when the LORD has not sent them, and yet they expect him to fulfill their word. Have you not seen a false vision and uttered a lying divination, whenever you have said, ‘Declares the LORD,’ although I have not spoken? Therefore thus says the Lord GOD: “Because you have uttered falsehood and seen lying visions, therefore behold, I am against you, declares the Lord GOD. My hand will be against the prophets who see false visions and who give lying divinations. (Ezekiel 13:6-9).
Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.
I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; (Acts 20:29).
Modern day Christianity is awash withself proclaimed false prophets. These are are predominantly, though not exclusively, charismatic/Pentecostal, they are ecumenical, and they are part of the New Apostolic Reformation. They deny the prophetic scriptures and peddle the false doctrine of Dominionism through their infamous Seven Mountain Mandate. These false prophets claim to know better than the Jesus Christ Himself and the real prophets and apostles who predicted the diametric opposite of everything they assert! (Matthew 24:4-12). The first thing Jesus warned about in the Olivet Discourse:See that no one leads you astray.. (Matthew 24:4). Jesus continued to expand on spiritual deception and prophesied war, famines and earthquakes, pestilence, apostasy and tribulation.
The test of a true/false prophet:
If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and giveth thee a sign or a wonder, And the sign or the wonder come to pass, whereof he spake unto thee, saying, Let us go after other gods, which thou hast not known, and let us serve them; Thou shalt not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for the LORD your God proveth you, to know whether ye love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul. (Deuteronomy 13: 1-3).
But if any prophet dares to speak a message in My name that I have not commanded him to speak, or to speak in the name of other gods, that prophet must be put to death.” You may ask in your heart, “How can we recognize a message that the LORD has not spoken?” When a prophet speaks in the name of the LORD and the message does not come to pass or come true, that is a message the LORD has not spoken. The prophet has spoken presumptuously. Do not be afraid of him. (Deuteronomy 18:20-22).
Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. For many false prophets have gone out into the world. (1 John 4:1).
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. (Romans 16:17).
Below are the usual suspects, although the list is not exhaustive. These are the presumptuous false prophets that believers should mark and avoid.
Paula White held daily meetings declaring Trumps victory. In November White declared that God had dispatched angels from Africa and South America to help Trump achieve victory.
Kris Vallotton (Bethel Redding cult) apologized on Instagram: "I want to sincerely apologise for missing the prophecy about Donald Trump. It doesn't make me a false prophet. I prophesied he would become president four days after he declared his candidacy [in 2015]. And I prophesied Trump would not be impeached [and removed from office]. I'm very sorry to everyone who put their trust in me, there was a major, major mistake,” If a "prophet" predicts something wrongly then he is a false prophet!
Sid Roth claimed to interview many trusted "prophets" He stated that without blinking an eye Donald Trump will have two terms.. "President Trump is going to win."
Pat Robertson: “I want to say without question, Trump is going to win the election.”
Jeremiah Johnson:“While we wait until January to determine our next US President, observe the stunning blindness and hypocrisy in the body of Christ… Christians who voted for the shedding of innocent blood, the Equality Act, and anti-Israel legislation (ALL things God HATES) are now picking up stones to persecute prophets who supposedly missed it,”
Lance Wallnau decreed that God would “overturn” the election because Trump’s “assignment” from God had not yet been completed.
Kenneth Copeland: “The media said Joe Biden is President …” Copeland's congregation mimicked his imbecilic laughter. {3}
Mark Taylor: "It is going to be victory after victory after victory.. We will absolutely have an eight year presidency... I am sure about that."
Kat Kerr: “The rocks are about to move and Trump will be President no matter what you hear.. It will start with a phone call and I can tell you, you will be shocked to see how much exposure comes from that, but Trump will win, He will be President of the United States, he will sit in that office for 4 more years and God will have His way in this country.”
Dutch Sheets: "We're going to enforce the victory of Calvary and we're going to decree prophetically what God's been saying."
Jane Hamon: "Saints, this isn't over! Show up for battle, position yourself, fast, pray, prophesy and decree, and then see how God brings the victory."
Love and truth go hand in hand. (1 John 3:18). Vallotton, the Bethel cult and other NAR false prophets do not have love because they do not teach truth. As far as I am aware, no one is calling for Vallotton or any of these false prophets to be "punished".. that would be God's prerogative! (Deuteronomy 32:35). However, it is necessary to warn against these impostors because they are a blight on the true church, they undermine the faith of many, they bring false hope, and they bring the gospel into disrepute. (2 Peter 2:2; Titus 1:11; Proverbs 13:12).
Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. (Ephesians 5:1).
The righteous hates falsehood, but the wicked brings shame and disgrace. (Proverbs 13:5).
To accept false prophets is a sin against the Lord and effectively puts believers in extreme peril. The scriptures are clear that false prophets should be utterly rejected and avoided.. do not receive him into your house or give him any greeting, (2 John 1:10). A tree is known by its fruit.. (Matthew 7:22-23). These false prophets have proved that they are charlatans and are not worthy to hold the office. For their own sake and the sake of those they have deceived they should repent and step down from their positions. If they choose to continue to justify themselves they will ultimately reap the consequences of their actions.
But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.” (Revelation 21:8).
Jen Johnson's irreverence and blasphemy is unspeakably ignorant and crass. She should certainly take her own advise and "get off the stage". She should also remove herself from this disgusting excuse for a "church" and repent before it is too late.
..the lips of a fool consume him. The beginning of his talk is folly, and the end of his speech is evil madness. Yet the fool multiplies words. (Ecclesiastes 10:13-14).
I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matthew 12:36-37)
In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him stood the seraphim. Each had six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. And one called to another and said:
“Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!”
And the foundations of the thresholds shook at the voice of him who called, and the house was filled with smoke. (Isaiah 6:1-4).
1After this I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven! And the first voice, which I had heard speaking to me like a trumpet, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.” 2At once I was in the Spirit, and behold, a throne stood in heaven, with one seated on the throne. 3And he who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian, and around the throne was a rainbow that had the appearance of an emerald. 4Around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and seated on the thrones were twenty-four elders, clothed in white garments, with golden crowns on their heads. 5From the throne came flashes of lightning, and rumblingsa and peals of thunder, and before the throne were burning seven torches of fire, which are the seven spirits of God, 6and before the throne there was as it were a sea of glass, like crystal.
And around the throne, on each side of the throne, are four living creatures, full of eyes in front and behind: 7the first living creature like a lion, the second living creature like an ox, the third living creature with the face of a man, and the fourth living creature like an eagle in flight. 8And the four living creatures, each of them with six wings, are full of eyes all around and within, and day and night they never cease to say,
“Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!”
9And whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to him who is seated on the throne, who lives forever and ever, 10the twenty-four elders fall down before him who is seated on the throne and worship him who lives forever and ever. They cast their crowns before the throne, saying,
11“Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.”
In this video revisionist Charles Cooper redefines the scriptures in what appears to be a style almost identical to the Word-Faith heresy, where it is claimed that Christians can access the power of faith through proclamation. Cooper describes himself as "an author, lecturer, and Church consultant". He is also the founder and director of the Prewrath Resource Institute or Orlando, Florida. {1} This is very unfortunate, since Cooper's deviant theology is unhelpful to the prewrath position.
Several of Cooper's statements in this video are extremely questionable:
Cooper: "While many believers want to be used mightily by God, few experience anything remotely worth talking about their whole lives! This is so sad given God's purpose in saving us in the first place. Don't you want to wield Divine Prerogatives?" "You are supposed to be a person of influence in this world... radical influence. You are supposed to be able to do things that are so beyond normal that people have to give you sway.. healing is a divine prerogative." (Matthew 5:23-34).
According to Cooper - "Going to heaven is not the most significant aspect of why God called you, drew you, and made you a member of his sovereign administration."
Cooper: "The sovereign administration of God is another way of saying the kingdom of God."
Cooper redefines the phrase "the kingdom of God/the kingdom of heaven", and shifts the focus away from the foundation of our faith i.e. the gospel of Jesus Christ, the hope of our salvation. (Colossians 1:23). Progression in the faith is dependent solely upon this foundation. (1 Corinthians 3:11). Cooper minimizes the message of the gospel and digresses into the area of what he calls "divine prerogatives", in other words the gift of healing and deliverance. The scriptures always give the gospel priority:
Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, (1 Timothy 1:15).
For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." (Luke 19:10).
He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. (Colossians 1:13-14).
Jesus Christ's instruction to His remaining eleven disciples i.e. the Great Commission:
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, (Matthew 28:19). I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! (1 Corinthians 9:16).
Paul does not say.. Woe to me if I do not heal the sick. Kingdom of God/Kingdom of heaven
"The phrases 'kingdom of God' and 'kingdom of heaven' have been supposed to have a considerable variety of meaning. Some have supposed that they refer to the state of things in heaven; others, to the personal reign of Christ on earth; others, that they mean the church, or the reign of Christ in the hearts of his people. There can be no doubt that there is reference in the words to the condition of things in heaven after this life. But the church of God is a preparatory state to that beyond the grave - a state in which Christ pre-eminently rules and reigns and there is no doubt that the phrases sometimes refer to the state of things in the church; and that they may refer, therefore, to the state of things which the Messiah was to set up his spiritual reign begun in the church on earth and completed in heaven." {2} * And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. And they went and woke him, saying, “Save us, Lord; we are perishing.” And he said to them, “Why are you afraid (δειλοί), O you of little faith?” Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. (Matthew 8:23-26).
Cooper: "Control of nature is a divine prerogative.. Jesus is disappointed that His disciples didn't seize the moment.. The Lord's response: 'Why are you cowards' (the word afraid actually means cowards) 'oh ye of little faith'. Jesus expected the twelve to respond very differently to this storm.. It is a divine prerogative ~ to be able to change the nature around you. Jesus seemingly expects us to know this and to handle it in a certain kind of way.. so that's a prerogative."
The Greek adjective δειλοί = cowardly, fearful (from deos), is found in three places in the NT: Matthew 8:26, Mark 4:40, and Revelation 21:8; and also once as a noun (deos) in Hebrews 12:28.
Word-Faith teachers Kenneth and Gloria Copeland claim the "divine prerogative" to control the weather in the name of God. {3} Copeland recently rebuked COVID-19 to no effect.
Cooper: "Resurrecting the dead is a divine prerogative. It is a divine prerogative to raise the dead, and those humans that he give the authority to do the same." (Matthew 9:18b-19; 23-26).
This deception is also taught by Bill Johnson and Bethel Church Redding. The much publicized failed attempt to raise two year old Olive Heiligenthal last year is a clear example of false teachers who bring the way of truth into disrepute. (2 Peter 2:2). In reality Bethel are part of the heretical New Apostolic Reformation (NAR).
Bill Johnson's justification for attempting to raise the dead is Jesus' instruction to the twelve: Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without pay. (Matthew 10:8). Church Watch Central: The result of Kalley’s request were thousands of decrees, declarations, and even commands for the child’s spirit to return to her body. In other words, instead of making their requests known to God, Bethelites & co responded in line with Bill Johnson’s little god theology by ‘activating their faith’, attempting to take dominion over death, and speak life into the body. This is pure word of faith and dominion theology – two heresies taught at Bethel. The activity has not ceased, Johnson stated that ‘Since that night, and at the continued request of the Heiligenthal family, Bethel Church has hosted prayer and worship gatherings which consist of singing and prayer (this is the first-ever public gathering of prayer for resurrection that Bethel has hosted).'” {4} *Jesus Walks on the Water (Matthew 14:22-27)
But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified (ἐταράχθησαν), and said, “It is a ghost!” and they cried out in fear. (φόβου) (Matthew 14:26).
Cooper's response to this verse: "cowards, conduct of the cowards." (23:00 mark)
φόβοςis not a synonym for δειλός (cowardly). φόβος noun ~ be afraid, + exceedingly, fear, terror. {5}(Eng. phobia)
On this occasion Jesus did not rebuke them or call them cowards, rather he reassured them: But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid (φοβεῖσθε).” (Matthew 14:27).
Peter falters in his faith when he attempts to go to Jesus on the water: But when he saw the wind, he was afraid (ἐφοβήθη), and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:30-31).
Cooper: "Walking on water is a divine prerogative.. it is what God does, and those to whom God gives authority to do the same." Jesus gave Peter the supernatural ability to walk on water, but to say that he had the authority to do this is Cooper's eisegesis.
THE ALL IMPORTANT QUESTION
Cooper: "Was this only in the purview of the twelve?
His answer: "With the right to enter (God's kingdom), comes the right to wield divine prerogative."
During his earthly ministry, Jesus commissioned the twelve to preach the gospel and heal the sick:
As you go, preach this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give. (Matthew 10:1,7 cf. Mark 3:14-15; Luke 9:2;10:9).
Supernatural healing is prevalent in the Gospels and also in the book of Acts. And God was doing extraordinary miracles by the hands of Paul.. (Acts 19:11). However, these "extraordinary miracles" do not play a prominent role in the Epistles. The signs of a true apostle were performed among you with utmost patience, with signs and wonders and mighty works. 2 Corinthians 12:12 The twelve: And they departed and went through the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere. (Luke 9:6). The Seventy two: Heal the sick in it and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’ Luke 10:9, 17-18).
The focus changes significantly in the Epistles:
Do all have gifts of healing? (1 Corinthians 12:9, 28-30).
Timothy's "frequent ailments"
(No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.) (1Timothy 5:23). 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 2:25-27). Erastus remained at Corinth, and I left Trophimus, who was ill, at Miletus. (2 Timothy 4:20).
The believers at Corinth brought judgement upon themselves due to their improper participation of the Lord's supper. That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. (1 Corinthians 11:21-30).
Paul's thorn in the flesh (sickness or something else?) So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:7-10). I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ (Matthew 25:36). Then they also will answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?’ (Matthew 25:44).
*And he did not do many mighty works there, because of their unbelief. (Matthew 13:58).
Cooper's interpretation: "Jesus did not do many miracles in Nazareth because no one asked him." (34:00 mark)
It was not that they "..did not bother to ask him", as Cooper says. In the previous verse we see that ..theytook offence at him. (Matthew 13:57). To "take offence" suggests open hostility. (Matthew 24:10).
Cooper: "Most don't ask, or when they do, they couch in the language of cowards. You know what the language of cowards are 'Jesus heal our brother if it be your will', that is the language of cowards." (35:00 mark)
The above statement is extremely dangerous and upsetting, especially to vulnerable people suffering from sickness. Many sick people have been hurt by promises of healing that have not materialized, and many have subsequently gone through a crisis of faith as a result. (Matthew 18:6). I am not a cessationist. I believe that God may spontaneously heal a sick person, or he may direct another, or others, to lay hands on a sick person and to pray for their recovery:
Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. (James 5:14-15).
..do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (Philippians 4:6). Pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer and petition. To this end, stay alert with all perseverance in your prayers for all the saints. (Ephesians 6:18). Dear friend,I pray that you may enjoy good healthand that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. (3 John 1:2).
1. I will not embrace an end-time worldview that re-empowers a disempowered devil.
The beast was given a mouth to speak arrogant and blasphemous words, and authority to act for forty-two months. And the beast opened its mouth to speak blasphemies against God and to slander His name and His tabernacle—those who dwell in heaven.
Then the beast was permitted to wage war against the saints and to conquer them, and it was given authority over every tribe and people and tongue and nation. And all who dwell on the earth will worship the beast—all whose names have not been written from the foundation of the world in the Book of Life belonging to the Lamb who was slain. (Revelation 13:5-8).
2. I will not accept an eschatology that takes away my children’s future, and creates mindsets that undermine the mentality of leaving a legacy.
Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. (John 12:25).
Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.” (John 18:36).
If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied. (1 Corinthians 15:19).
..waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ, (Titus 2:13).
3. I will not tolerate any theology that sabotages the clear command of Jesus to make disciples of all nations and the Lord’s Prayer that earth would be like heaven.
Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. (Matthew 10:34).
For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be. Matthew 24:21).
It was bright red, and its rider was granted permission to take peace from the earth and to make men slay one another. And he was given a great sword. (Revelation 6:4).
4. I will not allow any interpretation of the scriptures that destroys hope for the nations and undermines our command to restore ruined cities.
For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. (Matthew 24:7)
But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed. (2 Peter 3:10).
From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty. (Revelation 19:15).
Behold, the day of the LORD is coming, Cruel, with fury and burning anger, To make the land a desolation; And He will exterminate its sinners from it. (Isaiah 13:9).
5. I will not embrace an eschatology that changes the nature of a good God.
Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance? But because of your hard and impenitent heart you are storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed. (Romans 2:4-5)
6. I refuse to embrace any mindset that celebrates bad news as a sign of the times and a necessary requirement for the return of Jesus.
As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray. And you will hear of wars and rumours of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains. (Matthew 24:3-8).
But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. (2 Timothy 3:1). 7. I am opposed to any doctrinal position that pushes the promises of God into a time zone that can’t be obtained in my generation and therefore takes away any responsibility I have to believe God for them in my lifetime.
Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. (John 12:25).
8. I don’t believe that the last days are a time of judgment, nor do I believe God gave the church the right to call for wrath for sinful cities. There is a day of judgment in which GOD will judge man, not us.
He said, “Behold, I will make known to you what shall be at the latter end of the indignation, for it refers to the appointed time of the end. (Daniel 8:19).
And another angel, a third, followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives a mark on his forehead or on his hand, he also will drink the wine of God’s wrath, poured full strength into the cup of his anger, and he will be tormented with fire and sulphur in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever, and they have no rest, day or night, these worshippers of the beast and its image, and whoever receives the mark of its name.”
Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus. (Revelation 14:9-12).
The Thousand Years
Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding in his hand the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain. And he seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years, and threw him into the pit, and shut it and sealed it over him, so that he might not deceive the nations any longer, until the thousand years were ended. After that he must be released for a little while.
Then I saw thrones, and seated on them were those to whom the authority to judge was committed. Also I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for the testimony of Jesus and for the word of God, and those who had not worshipped the beast or its image and had not received its mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection! Over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years.
The Defeat of Satan
And when the thousand years are ended, Satan will be released from his prison and will come out to deceive the nations that are at the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them for battle; their number is like the sand of the sea. And they marched up over the broad plain of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city, but fire came down from heaven and consumed them, and the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulphur where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.
Judgement Before the Great White Throne
Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. From his presence earth and sky fled away, and no place was found for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done. And the sea gave up the dead who were in it, Death and Hades gave up the dead who were in them, and they were judged, each one of them, according to what they had done. Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:1-15).
New Apostolic Reformation Apostle and false teacher Todd White speaks out against Sozo and says something right for a change.
Bethel Sozo claims to be an inner healing and deliverance ministry. Bethel define Sozo as “a unique inner healing and deliverance ministry in which the main aim is to get to the root of those things hindering your personal connection with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” {1}
The New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) is a controversial movement that is historically associated with Pentecostalism and the Charismatic movement, having its roots in the Pentecostal movement of the 1900s and the Charismatic movements of the 1960s and 1980s. {1} Though there is some overlap, the NAR is a movement that seeks to establish a fifth branch within Christendom, as distinct from Roman Catholicism, Protestantism, Eastern Orthodoxy and Oriental Orthodoxy. The NAR seeks to reinstate what they term as the "lostoffices" of apostles and prophets to church governance. The rapid global expansion of the NAR is mainly due to covert infiltration and assimilation of various unsuspecting congregations. Bill Johnson is a leading figure within this counterfeit movement and is widely touted as an Apostle. Johnson will be the speaking at the above event along with "apostolic couple" Tim and Sue Eldridge, and "Prophet" Graham Cooke.
Bill Johnson's Questionable Relationship With Truth
In 2016 Bill Johnson distanced himself from the NAR, stating that Bethel church "..does not have any official ties to the NAR.. I'm not completely clear on what it is.” {2}
Johnson's statement above is typical of the duplicity demonstrated by the leadership of Bethel Church in Redding CA - his involvement within this movement is undeniable. Johnson was recognised as an "Apostle" by NAR founder and "Super-Apostle" C Peter Wagner (2 Corinthians 11:5, 12:11). Furthermore Johnson embraces core NAR teachings and has close ties with various other NAR false teachers.
In an interview, Bill Johnson claimed that neither he nor Bethel encourages the occult practice known as "grave sucking" aka "grave soaking", i.e. the practice of lying on the grave of a deceased "Christian" leader in order to "soak up" their anointing. Nevertheless Johnson's wife Beni and members of Bethel's affiliate Jesus Culture openly practice this particular form of necrophilia. In fact Johnson himself visited the grave of Smith Wigglesworth in England with a group of Bethel students a few years ago. Beni Johnson is more forthcoming: "Grave-sucking is what I do". {3}
When they are not busy opening portals, conjuring angel orbs, attempting to walk through walls, making fire tunnels etc. {4}students of the Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry, dubbed “Christian Hogwarts”, visit the graves of various heretics such as:
Johnson: "There are anointings, mantles, revelations and mysteries that have lain unclaimed, literally where they were left, because the generation that walked in them never passed them on. I believe it’s possible for us to recover realms of anointing, realms of insight, realms of God that have been untended for decades simply by choosing to reclaim them and perpetuate them for future generations." {5}
The onlyrequirement necessary in the New Testament is for believers to receive the Holy Spirit. (John 20:22; Acts 8:15). It is the Holy Spirit who distributes various gifts and ministries: All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills. (1 Corinthians 12:11). The New Testament does not support grave sucking or the supposed anointing of deceased believers. (1 Corinthians 4:6). Mediums and necromancers are equally condemned in the Old Testament. (Leviticus 20:27).
Bethel's Senior Associate Leader, Kris Vallotton, originally condemned ChristalignmentDestiny Cards aka Christian tarot cards as "insane". {6} However, Vallotton rapidly withdrew his criticism and issued the following statement: "Christalignment is not formally affiliated with Bethel. We do, however, have a value for what they are seeking to accomplish." {7} Not "formally affiliated" perhaps, but Christalignment is in fact Bethel approved, and despite their conflicting statements, the dots connect. Ben Fitzgerald is the leader of Awakening Europe and GODfest Ministries. {8} He is also the Director of Awakening Austrialia of which Christalignment is a supporting ministry. {9} In 2018, Awakening Australia featured Bill Johnson as a speaker. {10} Fitzgerald is actually the son of Christalignment leaders Ken and Jen Hodge. Ben Fitzgerald was "knighted" by Bill Johnson and Kris Vallotton at one of their bizarre occult rites. {11} Awakening Europe, put on by GODfest, is honestly going to release a shaking throughout all over Europe. These guys carry such a strong, but practical evangelistic anointing. I believe these events are going to be life changing, not just for those who attend, but honestly shaking the entire continent of Europe.
- Bill Johnson Senior Pastor, Bethel Church - Author When Heaven Invades Earth Redding, California {12}
The following statement from Bethel's website encapsulates Dominion Theology, the lethal eschatological error of the NAR:
"A Glorious Bride Christ is returning for a glorious overcoming bride - His Church. We are sons and daughters of the King, more than “sinners saved by grace.” We aim to fulfill the Great Commission and steward revival to the next generation. We embrace the biblical government of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers." {13}
The false premise that present-day apostles and prophets must hold formal offices of governance in the church, ahead of pastors and elders, is antithetical to the scriptures. NAR leaders claim that their apostles and prophets have extraordinary authority, on a par with New Testament apostles and Old Testament prophets. However, they will not be held to the same accountability since they allow for prophetic inaccuracies. (Deuteronomy 18:20-22; Jeremiah 28:9; Ezekiel 33:33). The NT makes no mention of the formal office of Apostle or Prophet, rather, an apostle is simply a missionary or a church planter, and the gift of prophecy is one of various gifts Paul listed for the common good. (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). The insistence that local pastors and elders must submit to the extraordinary authority of NAR apostles and prophets is completely out of sync with the New Testament. Within the NAR, individual "apostles" claiming to act on behalf of the "global church", have authority over their own network of churches and ministries, sometimes numbering into the hundreds. This contradicts the biblical model of church structure as laid down in the NT. Paul instructed Titus to ..appoint elders in every town as I directed you. (Titus 1:5; cf. Acts 14:23). In the New Testament, individual churches are autonomous congregations with their own local overseers directing their specific affairs. In fact NAR apostles and prophets literally hijack churches and overrule pastors/elders because of their presumptuous claims to receive direct revelation from God, albeit that those revelations are frequently inaccurate.
Johnson:“None of us has a full grasp of Scripture, but we all have the Holy Spirit. He is our common denominator who will always lead us into truth. But to follow Him, we must be willing to follow off the map—to go beyond what we know.” {14}
Johnson: “Jesus did not say, ‘My sheep will know my book.’ It is His voice that we are to know. Why the distinction? Because anyone can know the Bible as a book – the devil himself knows and quotes the Scriptures. But only those whose lives are dependent on the person of the Holy Spirit will consistently recognize His voice. This is not to say that the Bible has little or no importance. Quite the opposite is true. The Bible is the Word of God, and scripture will always confirm His voice. That voice gives impact to what is in print.." {15}
The above statement is a contradiction in terms. If the scriptures "always confirm His voice", then why are NAR apostles and prophets at variance with biblical eschatology and prophecy? The scriptures know nothing of Dominion Theology, in fact they teach the exact opposite: 3As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” 4And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. 5For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray. 6And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. 7For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8All these are but the beginning of the birth pains. 9“Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name’s sake. 10And then many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another. 11And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. 12And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. 13But the one who endures to the end will be saved. 14And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.. 21For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be. 22And if those days had not been cut short, no human being would be saved. But for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short. (Matthew 24:3-21; cf. Luke 21:10-11).
Johnson describes the scriptures on their own as dead words, and he makes the distinction between the written word (logos), and a spoken word (rhema). However, rhema and logos are synonymous in the scriptures. For instance when discussing spiritual gifts, the Apostle Paul used logos to describe the utterance of wisdom, and the utterance of knowledge. (1 Corinthians 12:8). If a so called "rhema word" conflicts with the written word, then it must be dismissed as false. (1 John 4:1). It may be that many unregenerate people can and do know the scriptures objectively. However His sheep are believers who are indwelt by the Holy Spirit and recognise the scriptures as His inspired Word. (John 10:14). The Word of God and the Holy Spirit are never contradictory, and yet all too frequently NAR apostles and prophets do contradict the scriptures and go beyond what is written. (1 Corinthians 4:6). For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12).
For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds. (2 Corinthians 11:13-15).
Beware: ANCL Treasure Hunting & Outreach on the Streets
All Nations Church in Leicester (ANCL) have announced that a team of Bethel Students will be joining them on Saturday, the 30th March in the city centre between 1:00pm - 4:00pm for the dubious activity of "Treasure Hunting" in the city centre. {1}
Treasure Hunting is a form of pseudo evangelism known as "prophetic evangelism" that appears to have originated at Bethel Church in Redding CA in 2005. {2}
Treasure Hunting is also associated with Healing on the Streets (HOTS) in the UK under the Vineyard banner. I warned about this practice back in 2012 when ANCL and Holy Trinity Church in Leicester joined forces to practice this particular form of pseudo evangelism. {3}
Typically, Treasure Hunting involves small teams of three or four people who decide on a place to conduct their "hunt", such as a park or a shopping centre. Prior to the Treasure Hunt, team members ask God to give them prophetic “words of knowledge” called “clues” about the specific people they will find at the chosen location. These clues may include a person’s name, descriptions of that person’s dress or appearance, and any ailments they may be suffering from etc. Team members mark these clues on a treasure map, which they then use to guide them to the person, called a “treasure”, who matches their clues.
Treasure Hunting is not supported by the scriptures and is problematic on a number of critical levels. Prophetic words of knowledge are not viewed as 100% accurate even by their proponents. A major concern is that these "words of knowledge" are a figment of the imagination of those seeking "clues", or even worse, that they are a form of occult divination. (Jeremiah 23:16, 35-26; 27:9; Ezekiel 13:2). Should the unsuspecting public be subjected to these dubious practices?
In 2012 the ASA upheld complaints about a leaflet that stated: "NEED HEALING? GOD CAN HEAL TODAY!” listing various diseases. "While the ASA acknowledged that the advertiser believed that prayer could treat illness, it concluded that the ad made unsubstantiated claims and could discourage people, particularly the vulnerable or those suffering from undiagnosed symptoms, from seeking essential treatment. It ruled the ad could encourage false hope in those suffering from the named conditions and was therefore irresponsible (Healing on the Streets – Bath, 13 June 2013). To date CAP has not seen evidence that religious healing can treat or cure illness, dysfunction or malformations. Marketers should be aware that testimonials alone are unlikely to suffice as adequate substantiation." {4}
The biblical definition of evangelism is: Zealous preaching (promulgation dissemination) of the gospel; spreading the word, spreading the gospel, telling the gospel message. There is no indication in the scriptures that we should get "creative" and do things in another way according to man made methodologies. Seeking signs for their own sake is wicked according to Jesus Christ. (Matthew 12:39).
The primary mission of the church is to preach the gospel. And he said to them, "Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation. (Mark 16/15). Problematically, the clear message of the gospel is missing from this kind of "outreach".
Both Jesus Christ and Paul gave priority to the gospel message. But he said to them, "I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other cities also; for I was sent for this purpose." (Luke 4/43).
If I proclaim the gospel, this gives me no ground for boasting, for an obligation is laid on me, and woe to me if I do not proclaim the gospel! (1 Corinthians 9/16).
Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people. (Matthew 4/23).
And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. (Matthew 9:35) .
As you go, proclaim the good news, "The kingdom of heaven has come near. 'Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers,cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment. (Matthew 10/7-8).
"Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation. The one who believes and is baptized will be saved; but the one who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: by using my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues;they will pick up snakes in their hands,and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover." (Mark 16/15-18).
And they went out and proclaimed the good news everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by the signs that accompanied it. (Mark 16/20). Notice that the signs were a confirmation of the gospel message and not an end in themselves!
..and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. (Luke 9/2).
They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere. (Luke 9/6). But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles performed, he was amazed. (Acts 8).
You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ—he is Lord of all. That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. (Acts 10/36-38).
And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. ( James 5/15). In this instance James was addressing believers, not those outside the church.
There are instances of people coming to Jesus for healing e.g. the leper Matthew 8/2); the centurion (for his servant) (Matthew 8/5; Luke 7/2) Jairus (for his daughter) (Mark 5/22; Luke 8/41); the ten lepers Luke 17/11-19) These people had all clearly heard of Jesus’ teachings and healings and they recognised his authority, they came to Jesus –he did not go them (Peter’s mother in law being the exception). Jesus did not promote his healings or miracles, in fact he sometimes told those he healed not to tell anyone. (Matthew 8/4; Mark 1/44; 5/43;7/36) Jesus’ ministry was hindered by the leper's disobedience in telling about his healing (Mark 1/45).
In the instance of the demoniacs - it was the demons, not the men themselves who recognised Jesus – this was not a physical healing but an exorcism:
When he came to the other side, to the country of the Gadarenes, two demoniacs coming out of the tombs met him. They were so fierce that no one could pass that way. Suddenly they shouted, "What have you to do with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?" (Matthew 8/28-29) Jesus told the healed demoniac to go home and declare how much God has done for you. (Luke 8/39; Matthew 8/28). So they remained for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who testified to the word of his grace by granting signs and wonders to be done through them. (Acts 14/3).
Very sadly, Bethel students are extremely vulnerable young people who have been brainwashed by the Bethel cult of Bill Johnson. Johnson personally brought a group of Bethel Students to England in 2012? where they practiced necromancy in the form of grave sucking/soaking. The numerous bizarre practices of Bethel are a matter of great concern to many discernment ministries.
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. (Acts 20:29-30).
Chroma Church in Leicester was formerly Leicester City Vineyard Church, an affiliate of the Vineyard movement led by apostate John Wimber from the early 1980s. Chroma Church left the Vineyard Movement in 2017 after a period of ten years. Whatever the reasons for their departure from Vineyard, sadly it was not due to doctrinal issues. Chroma Church state unequivocally that their mission remains the same. {1}
Chroma Church are deeply influenced by the present apostasy that has swept over the major Christian denominations. On the 10th of March, Chroma Church will be hosting Ben Fitzgerald at their "Finding God Event". {2} Ben Fitzgerald was formerly a pastor at Bethel Church in Redding, California. He is currently the leader of Awakening Europe and GODfest Ministries.
The main issue affecting many charismatic and Pentecostal churches is the de-emphasis of scripture in favour of the false claims of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR).
The NAR can be briefly summed up as follows: Ecumenism is the ultimate betrayal of Jesus Christ involving the de-emphasis of doctrine for the sake of bringing all Christian denominations together under one tent. In particular the NAR aligns itself with the false system of Roman Catholicism.
Dominionism is the false assertion that God is restoring the so called "lost offices of church governance", namely the offices of Prophet and Apostle. NAR leaders de-emphasise doctrine and usurp the authority of the scriptures via claims of new revelations and greater authority than Jesus' original apostles. (Revelation 2:2). Dominion theology/Kingdom Now/Third Wave is the false assertion that focuses on believers taking literal dominion of the earth. (John 18:36). Bethel Church attempts to achieve this by their infamous Seven Mountain Mandate.
The NAR is known for its overemphasis on signs and wonders at the expense of scriptural authority. (Matthew 16:4).
Below is some information about Ben Fitzgerald from the Bethel website:
"Originally from Australia, Ben Fitzgerald was on staff at Bethel in Redding for several years when in 2014, Jesus showed him a vision at a field to take back Europe. After many confirmations, Bethel sent Ben to Germany where he and his team now live and host city wide events across the continent called Awakening Europe. These events, funded primarily by giving, serve three primary functions: to equip believers to share Jesus with no fear, to unify the church for God’s plan for their nation, and to win many new people to God through mass outreaches." {3}
Ben Fitzgerald fully supports his parents, Jen and Ken Hodges, who lead the pseudo Christian ministry Christalighnment. This supposed ministrypromotes "..accurate, personal destiny reading bookings, dream interpretation, spiritual cleansing, relationship counselling or healing..", via their Destiny Reading Cards, or more accurately, Christian tarot cards, as their critics contend. {4} Christalignment is anything but biblical and is based on New Age occultism.
"Christalignment thinks it's a good idea to take and then post photos of the naked people who visit their booth for 'Destiny Card' readings" {5}
Ben Fitzgerald promotes the bizarre practice of "Grave Sucking " aka "Grave Soaking", which in reality is necromancy. (Isaiah 8:19). Bill and Beni Johnson of Bethel Church Redding appear to have initiated this wicked practice a few years ago. The many detestable practices at Bethel go from the sublime to the ridiculous and are too numerous to mention here. Bethel claim that the “glory cloud” of God’s shekinah presence often manifests in their worship services and that the appearance angel feathers is also a regular occurrence. Bethel's obsession with false signs and wonders at the expense of the scriptures is truly astounding!
Below is a short video of Ben Fitzgerald promoting the practice of grave sucking:
