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Showing posts with label New Apostolic Reformation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New Apostolic Reformation. Show all posts

Thursday 21 March 2024

SAM STORMS + MICHAEL BROWN: WORTHLESS SHEPHERDS

Roundtable: Brown & Storms vs. Peters & Osman (youtube.com)

According to Sam Storms, a false teacher must deny some foundational truth. He went on to mention some "secondary issues" that he does not identify as false teaching i.e. "differences in eschatology, the mode of baptism, or the role of women in ministry". Storms parameters for false teachers are so broad that he does not identify Benny Hinn as a false teacher despite irrefutable evidence of Hinn's false prophesies, manipulative tactics, prosperity teaching etc. Storms claimed that he has never heard Hinn deny a foundational truth, and on that basis he accepts him as a believer "as far as I can tell". Justin Peters interjected with Hinn's heretical teaching on the nine-member godhead. Despite this Storms was still reluctant to call Hinn out as a false teacher. (22:23 mark) 

Storm's definition of a false teacher is scripturally inaccurate and shortsighted. If it were a black and white issue we would easily identify false teachers and we would not need discernment. (1 Corinthians 12:10). The challenging nature of discernment is to recognize that "lesser errors" bleed into the very gospel itself, and primary doctrines are indirectly attacked and diminished by so-called "secondary issues". (1 Corinthians 5:6). All false teaching is damaging and has repercussions on the gospel itself. For instance, irresistible grace (TULIP)) has massive implications for soteriology; the doctrine of baptismal regeneration misrepresents salvation; false eschatology such as dominionism and pretribulationism will have catastrophic consequences for those who have been mistaught. Eschatological error is likely to lead to catastrophic loss of confidence in Jesus Christ when severe persecution arises at the end of the age. (Matthew 24:10,21). Jesus' command to pay careful attention counters the sloppy attitude of many charismatics to the word of God. (Mark 4:24; Acts 17:11; Proverbs 19:27).

Storms noted that there are only eleven instances of the term "false prophet" in the New Testament and in each instance, the term always applies to non-believers. He neglected to mention that other terms and warnings also identify false teachers. For instance wolves, Acts 20:29; deceivers 2 John 1:7; evildoers and impostors 2 Timothy 3:13 etc. Storms objection that we have no business calling out false teachers to any significant degree because "we do not know their heart" is sentimental nonsense! The scriptures warn that there will be many false teachers/prophets at the end of the age and we are negligent if we do not take this warning seriously. (Matthew 24:5-11; Acts 20:29). The basis on which we are instructed to judge false teachers is to identify their fruit i.e. teaching and lifestyle. (1 Timothy 4:16). Since the scriptures condemn false teachers, we cannot doubt that they are on a calamitous course unless they repent. (2 Peter 2:17). The ultimate fate of false teachers is a matter for the Lord who knows the heart. (Acts 15:8). While we do not want to pick up on every little detail, we are required to be zealous regarding doctrine in order to keep the church pure and to purge evil from amongst ourselves. (1 Corinthians 5:13 cf. Deuteronomy 17:17). The lackadaisical attitude of many charismatics as evidenced by Storms, Brown and other leaders is responsible for the degenerate state of many congregations within that movement.  

The tragic irony is that when Storms had finished rebuking those of us who practice discernment, he went on to give a glowing report of Mike Bickle! (54:00 mark)

Justin Peters: "I believe that Mike Bickle has lied about a number of things, in fact, not the least of which he claims to have been to heaven at least twice. I don't believe that. I don't believe he has been to heaven." 

Storm's: You might not believe it, but how do you know he is lying?  I believe he has..  Everything you have said about Benny Hinn without knowing the man personally, Mike Bickle is probably my best friend in this world. I was in a small group with him and his wife for seven years, on his staff as his Senior Associate, on his staff at IHOP for an additional four years, eleven years. I know this man to the depth of his soul. I can't think of a more biblically orthodox, humble, Christ-exalting individual who lives an incredibly simple lifestyle.. If I hear people say that Mike Bickle is a false teacher it angers me.. because I know the individual. We are not talking about just watching ministry, I know the man personally and he is not NAR as has been claimed by so many..  the stories have been empirically verified.. Bob Jones had a remarkable gift.."

The false assumption that you have to know someone personally in order to critique their teaching is patently false. Clearly, it failed in this instance! Bickle's dubious association and experiences with false prophet Bob Jones has been widely exposed elsewhere. It is impossible to know what these two shady individuals cooked up between themselves, and in light of recent events, we should not believe any detail of Bickle's "prophetic" history. A group of former IHOPKC leaders known as "the Advocate Group" claim that Mike Bickle has been engaged in predatory sexual behavior and pathological misconduct spanning five decades.1 The Bickle debacle leaves Storms credibility and spiritual discernment in tatters!

As graphically demonstrated by Storms, we cannot base our approval for teachers on friendship, personal liking, or any other criteria; our approval must always be based on fruit. If Brown and Storms don't have the time or the inclination to research people like Sid Roth, Mike Bickle, Benny Hinn, Todd White etc. then they are negligent and have no business in the ministry. The mandate for shepherds is to guard the flock, not to support an old boy network! Such appalling negligence is an insult to the Lord and breaks the first commandment. (Mark 12:30 cf. Deuteronomy 6:5). 
 .
Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. (Acts 20:28). 

NAR Charismatics have not only brought the gospel into disrepute, in many cases they have caused untold damage and ruin to the body of Christ. (2 Peter 2:2). Michael Brown's affinity for Sid Roth is based on the false foundation of personal friendship of almost forty years. Brown absolutely views Sid Roth as a brother and he pleads ignorance regarding his ungodly antics. He claims that he doesn't know because he has only seen "snippets" of Roth's programs. (1:47 mark) Apparently Brown is too busy providing fresh victims for the wolves "Jewish evangelism" that he doesn't have time to test the spirits and guard the flock! (1 John 4:1; Matthew 28:19). As a leader and teacher it is Brown's responsibility to be fully conversant with the antics of the ministries and teachers he defends. God will hold leaders like Brown and Storms accountable for the flock! (Ezekiel 34:4-10).

On the basis of Titus 10:1-14  Brown and Storms are disqualified as leaders: 
    
He must hold firmly to the faithful word as it was taught, so that he can encourage others by sound teaching and refute those who contradict it. For many are rebellious and full of empty talk and deception, especially those of the circumcision, who must be silenced.. Therefore rebuke them sternly, so that they will be sound in the faith and will pay no attention to Jewish myths or to the commands of men who have rejected the truth. (Titus 10:9).

I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. (John 10:11-13).

Woe to my worthless shepherd, who deserts the flock! May the sword strike his arm and his right eye! Let his arm be wholly withered, his right eye utterly blinded!” (Zechariah 11:17; cf Jeremiah 23:1). 

Pulpit Commentary: "Verse 17. - Woe to the idol shepherd! rather, woe to the worthless shepherd! literally, shepherd of vanity, or nothingness, as Job 13:4, "physicians of no value." The LXX., recognizing that no special shepherd is signified, renders, Ω οἱ ποιμαίνοντες τὰ μάταια, "Alas for those who tend vanities!" St. Jerome, expounding the verse of antichrist, "O pastor, et idolum!" That leaveth the flock. Thus Christ speaks of the hireling (John 10:12). The sword shall be upon his arm, etc. The punishment denounced is in accordance with the neglect of the shepherd's duties. The sword represents the instrument of punishment, whatever it he; the right eye, the severity of the retribution (1 Samuel 11:2). The arm that ought to have defended the flock shall be withered up as by catalepsy; the eye that should have watched for their safety shall be blinded. This is the judgment on the foolish shepherd."2

NAR charismatics and other false teachers should continue to be challenged and their deceptions exposed as commanded in the scriptures. (Ephesians 5:11). Reformed cessationists are not in the clear by any means. Calvinism has massive implications for soteriology and spiritual gifts. Peters and Osman's approval of Martin Luther is very telling and reveals that they are equally remiss. I have addressed the subject of Martin Luther's despicable behaviour and writings in a separate post: WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: CHRIS ROSEBROUGH: THE SINS OF MARTIN LUTHER DOWNPLAYED (bewareofthewolves.blogspot.com)

1. I sadly admit I sinned’: IHOPKC founder repents, but denies ‘intense sexual activities’ (yahoo.com)
2. Zechariah 11:17 Commentaries: "Woe to the worthless shepherd Who leaves the flock! A sword will be on his arm And on his right eye! His arm will be totally withered And his right eye will be blind." (biblehub.com)

Saturday 16 March 2024

CHRIS ROSEBROUGH: THE SINS OF MARTIN LUTHER DOWNPLAYED

The Sins of Martin Luther - Chris Rosebrough (youtube.com)

Chris Rosebrough has posted this video in response to the points made by Michael Brown regarding Martin Luther during a recent roundtable discussion between Brown & Storms vs. Peters & Osman: (1: 26) Roundtable: Brown & Storms vs. Peters & Osman - YouTube Rosebrough's response massively downplays Luther's antisemitism: "Luther lashed back in a way that went beyond what was necessary and crossed into the line of sinfulness.."

Although I regard Brown as a false prophet and someone who facilitates NAR false teachers and prophets, his observations about Martin Luther were far from irrelevant. The double standards or "differing weights" employed by Lutherans and Calvinists are nowhere more evident than their reverence of this wicked man. (Proverbs 20:10).   

In his earlier period, until about 1537, Luther sought to convert Jews to Protestant Christianity. However, when they failed to convert he became hostile towards them. In his 65,000-word antisemitic treatise On the Jews and Their Lies he referred to the Jews in the vilest terms imaginable and urged their persecution. His influence upon Hitler's Nazi Germany is beyond doubt.

Rollins: "Martin Luther and Adolf Hitler are inseparably linked with their extreme anti-Semitism and nationalism. It is impossible to assume that Luther did not have any influence on Hitler and his views, for it cannot be mere coincidence that Hitler’s anti-Jewish sentiment of the 1930s and 1940s mirrors that of Luther’s anti-Semitism of the 1500s."1 

Excerpts from "On the Jews and Their Lies"

I had made up my mind to write no more either about the Jews or against them. But since I learned that these miserable and accursed people do not cease to lure to themselves even us, that is, the Christians, I have published this little book, so that I might be found among those who opposed such poisonous activities of the Jews who warned the Christians to be on their guard against them. I would not have believed that a Christian could be duped by the Jews into taking their exile and wretchedness upon himself. However, the devil is the god of the world, and wherever God’s word is absent he has an easy task, not only with the weak but also with the strong. May God help us. Amen..

He did not call them Abraham’s children, but a “brood of vipers” [Matt. 3:7]. Oh, that was too insulting for the noble blood and race of Israel, and they declared, “He has a demon’ [Matt 11:18]. Our Lord also calls them a “brood of vipers”; furthermore, in John 8 [:39,44] he states: “If you were Abraham’s children ye would do what Abraham did.... You are of your father the devil. It was intolerable to them to hear that they were not Abraham’s but the devil’s children, nor can they bear to hear this today..

Therefore, the blind Jews are truly stupid fools...

Now just behold these miserable, blind, and senseless people ... their blindness and arrogance are as solid as an iron mountain.

Learn from this, dear Christian, what you are doing if you permit the blind Jews to mislead you. Then the saying will truly apply, “When a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into the pit” [cf. Luke 6:39]. You cannot learn anything from them except how to misunderstand the divine commandments...

Therefore be on your guard against the Jews, knowing that wherever they have their synagogues, nothing is found but a den of devils in which sheer self-glory, conceit, lies, blasphemy, and defaming of God and men are practiced most maliciously and veheming his eyes on them.

Moreover, they are nothing but thieves and robbers who daily eat no morsel and wear no thread of clothing which they have not stolen and pilfered from us by means of their accursed usury. Thus, they live from day to day, together with wife and child, by theft and robbery, as arch thieves and robbers, in the most impenitent security.

However, they have not acquired a perfect mastery of the art of lying; they lie so clumsily and ineptly that anyone who is just a little observant can easily detect it. But for us Christians they stand as a terrifying example of God’s wrath.

If I had to refute all the other articles of the Jewish faith, I should be obliged to write against them as much and for as long a time as they have used for inventing their lies­­ that is, longer than two thousand years.

...Christ and his word can hardly be recognized because of the great vermin of human ordinances. However, let this suffice for the time being on their lies against doctrine or faith.

Did I not tell you earlier that a Jew is such a noble, precious jewel that God and all the angels dance when he farts?

Alas, it cannot be anything but the terrible wrath of God which permits anyone to sink into such abysmal, devilish, hellish, insane baseness, envy, and arrogance. If I were to avenge myself on the devil himself I should be unable to wish him such evil and misfortune as God’s wrath inflicts on the Jews, compelling them to lie and to blaspheme so monstrously, in violation of their own conscience. Anyway, they have their reward for constantly giving God the lie.

No, one should toss out these lazy rogues by the seat of their pants.

...but then eject them forever from this country. For, as we have heard, God’s anger with them is so intense that gentle mercy will only tend to make them worse and worse, while sharp mercy will reform them but little. Therefore, in any case, away with them!

Over and above that we let them get rich on our sweat and blood, while we remain poor and they such the marrow from our bones.

I brief, dear princes and lords, those of you who have Jews under your rule­­ if my counsel does not please your, find better advice, so that you and we all can be rid of the unbearable, devilish burden of the Jews, lest we become guilty sharers before God in the lies, blasphemy, the defamation, and the curses which the mad Jews indulge in so freely and wantonly against the person of our Lord Jesus Christ, this dear mother, all Christians, all authority, and ourselves. Do not grant them protection, safe-conduct, or communion with us.... With this faithful counsel and warning I wish to cleanse and exonerate my conscience.

Let the government deal with them in this respect, as I have suggested. But whether the government acts or not, let everyone at least be guided by his own conscience and form for himself a definition or image of a Jew.

However, we must avoid confirming them in their wanton lying, slandering, cursing, and defaming. Nor dare we make ourselves partners in their devilish ranting and raving by shielding and protecting them, by giving them food, drink, and shelter, or by other neighborly

Therefore, we Christians, in turn, are obliged not to tolerate their wanton and conscious blasphemy.

Accordingly, it must and dare not be considered a trifling matter but a most serious one to seek counsel against this and to save our souls from the Jews, that is, from the devil and from eternal death.

What shall we Christians do with this rejected and condemned people, the Jews? Since they live among us, we dare not tolerate their conduct now that we are aware of their lying and reviling and blaspheming. If we do, we become sharers in their lies, cursing and blasphemy. Thus, we cannot extinguish the unquenchable fire of divine wrath, of which the prophets speak, nor can we convert the Jews. With prayer and the fear of God we must practice a sharp mercy to see whether we might save at least a few from the glowing flames. We dare not avenge ourselves. Vengeance a thousand times worse than we could wish them already has them by the throat. I shall give you my sincere advice:

First to set fire to their synagogues or schools and to bury and cover with dirt whatever will not burn, so that no man will ever again see a stone or cinder of them. This is to be done in honor of our Lord and of Christendom, so that God might see that we are Christians, and do not condone or knowingly tolerate such public lying, cursing, and blaspheming of his Son and of his Christians. For whatever we tolerated in the past unknowingly ­ and I myself was unaware of it ­ will be pardoned by God. But if we, now that we are informed, were to protect and shield such a house for the Jews, existing right before our very nose, in which they lie about, blaspheme, curse, vilify, and defame Christ and us (as was heard above), it would be the same as if we were doing all this and even worse ourselves, as we very well know.

Second, I advise that their houses also be razed and destroyed. For they pursue in them the same aims as in their synagogues. Instead they might be lodged under a roof or in a barn, like the gypsies. This will bring home to them that they are not masters in our country, as they boast, but that they are living in exile and in captivity, as they incessantly wail and lament about us before God.

Third, I advise that all their prayer books and Talmudic writings, in which such idolatry, lies, cursing and blasphemy are taught, be taken from them. (remainder omitted)

Fourth, I advise that their rabbis be forbidden to teach henceforth on pain of loss of life and limb. For they have justly forfeited the right to such an office by holding the poor Jews captive with the saying of Moses (Deuteronomy 17 [:10 ff.]) in which he commands them to obey their teachers on penalty of death, although Moses clearly adds: “what they teach you in accord with the law of the Lord.” Those villains ignore that. They wantonly employ the poor people’s obedience contrary to the law of the Lord and infuse them with this poison, cursing, and blasphemy. In the same way the pope also held us captive with the declaration in Matthew 16 {:18], “You are Peter,” etc., inducing us to believe all the lies and deceptions that issued from his devilish mind. He did not teach in accord with the word of God, and therefore he forfeited the right to teach.

Fifth, I advise that safe-conduct on the highways be abolished completely for the Jews. For they have no business in the countryside, since they are not lords, officials, tradesmen, or the like. Let they stay at home. (...remainder omitted).

Sixth, I advise that usury be prohibited to them, and that all cash and treasure of silver and gold be taken from them and put aside for safekeeping. The reason for such a measure is that, as said above, they have no other means of earning a livelihood than usury, and by it they have stolen and robbed from us all they possess. Such money should now be used in no other way than the following: Whenever a Jew is sincerely converted, he should be handed one hundred, two hundred, or three hundred florins, as personal circumstances may suggest. With this he could set himself up in some occupation for the support of his poor wife and children, and the maintenance of the old or feeble. For such evil gains are cursed if they are not put to use with God’s blessing in a good and worthy cause.

Seventh, I commend putting a flail, an ax, a hoe, a spade, a distaff, or a spindle into the hands of young, strong Jews and Jewesses and letting them earn their bread in the sweat of their brow, as was imposed on the children of Adam (Gen 3[:19]}. For it is not fitting that they should let us accursed Goyim toil in the sweat of our faces while they, the holy people, idle away their time behind the stove, feasting and farting, and on top of all, boasting blasphemously of their lordship over the Christians by means of our sweat. No, one should toss out these lazy rogues by the seat of their pants.

But what will happen even if we do burn down the Jews’ synagogues and forbid them publicly to praise God, to pray, to teach, to utter God’s name? They will still keep doing it in secret. If we know that they are doing this in secret, it is the same as if they were doing it publicly. for our knowledge of their secret doings and our toleration of them implies that they are not secret after all and thus our conscience is encumbered with it before God.

Accordingly, it must and dare not be considered a trifling matter but a most serious one to seek counsel against this and to save our souls from the Jews, that is, from the devil and from eternal death. My advice, as I said earlier, is:

First, that their synagogues be burned down, and that all who are able toss in sulfur and pitch; it would be good if someone could also throw in some hellfire. That would demonstrate to God our serious resolve and be evidence to all the world that it was in ignorance that we tolerated such houses, in which the Jews have reviled God, our dear Creator and Father, and his Son most shamefully up till now but that we have now given them their due reward.

I wish and I ask that our rulers who have Jewish subjects exercise a sharp mercy toward these wretched people, as suggested above, to see whether this might not help (though it is doubtful). They must act like a good physician who, when gangrene has set in, proceeds without mercy to cut, saw, and burn flesh, veins, bone, and marrow. Such a procedure must also be followed in this instance. Burn down their synagogues, forbid all that I enumerated earlier, force them to work, and deal harshly with them, as Moses did in the wilderness, slaying three thousand lest the whole people perish. They surely do not know what they are doing; moreover, as people possessed, they do not wish to know it, hear it, or learn it. There it would be wrong to be merciful and confirm them in their conduct. If this does not help, we must drive them out like mad dogs, so that we do not become partakers of their abominable blasphemy and all their other vices and thus merit God’s wrath and be damned with them. I have done my duty. Now let everyone see to his. I am exonerated.
 
My essay, I hope, will furnish a Christian (who in any case has no desire to become a Jew) with enough material not only to defend himself against the blind, venomous Jews, but also to become the foe of the Jews’ malice, lying, and cursing, and to understand not only that their belief is false but that they are surely possessed by all devils. May Christ, our dear Lord, convert them mercifully and preserve us steadfastly and immovably in the knowledge of him, which is eternal life. Amen.2  


Rosebrough: "The Judaism of today and even the Judaism of the Medieval period is exactly the same false Judaism that the Pharisees had created, and was responsible primarily for the crucifixion of Christ. And so we recognize that unbelieving Jews today are not neutral as relates to Jesus Christ, instead, they are overt enemies of Christianity and the saving message that Jesus Christ is the Messiah, the promise of the Old Testament, that he is the promised son of David, the promised Prophet that Moses prophesied about in Deuteronomy 18, and that we must listen to Him and that salvation is only in Him. Modern-day Jews oppose this gospel vehemently. Modern-day Judaism is an enemy of Christ and must be countered with sound reasoning as well as with love and temperance and respect."  Neither Luther nor Rosebrough have understood Romans 11, Zechariah 12 and other passages regarding the final salvation of the Jews. If Luther had been theologically sound he would not have dared savage them in such wicked terms! (Romans 11:18). Luther's diatribe against the Jews was eschatologically ignorant and was injected with hatred and theological error. Its source can only have been demonic.

I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers, so that you will not be conceited: A hardening in part has come to Israel, until the full number of the Gentiles has come in. And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: “The Deliverer will come from Zion; He will remove godlessness from Jacob. And this is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.”Regarding the gospel, they are enemies on your account; but regarding election, they are loved on account of the patriarchs. For God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable. (Romans 11:25-29).

Luther and the Peasants Revolt 1524-25

I have addressed this subject in a previous post: WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: STEVE KOZAR + DANIEL LONG: ILLEGITIMATE BAPTISM (bewareofthewolves.blogspot.com)

Beginning in 1524 and ending in its suppression in 1525, the Peasants' Revolt began as a result of abuses cited by the peasants by the government and the church. Luther is often credited with the role of encouraging the Peasants' Revolt. However, he maintained allegiance to the German Princes against the violence of the rebels. Luther openly condemned the peasants and called for their brutal suppression, arguably inciting the demise of more than 100,000 peasants and facilitating further oppression of the lower classes."(German: Wider die Mordischen und Reubischen Rotten der Bawren) Against the Murderous, Thieving Hordes of Peasants typifies Luther's reaction to the Peasants' War, and alludes to Luther's concern that he might be seen to be responsible for their rebellion." 

Tract Against the Murderous and Thieving Hordes of Peasants
, published in May 1525 

Therefore, let everyone who can, smite, slay, and stab, secretly or openly, remembering that nothing can be more poisonous, hurtful, or devilish than a rebel. It is just as when one must kill a mad dog; if you do not strike him, he will strike you, and a whole land with you.

To kill a peasant is not murder; it is helping to extinguish the conflagration. Let there be no half measures! Crush them! Cut their throats! Transfix them. Leave no stone unturned! To kill a peasant is to destroy a mad dog! – If they say that I am very hard and merciless, mercy be damned. Let whoever can stab, strangle, and kill them like mad dogs”[Erlangen Vol 24"

I have killed all the farmers in their rebellion; all their blood is on my neck..

Luther was massively obese and weighed a hefty 150kg (23st 8lb) at his death in 1546 at the age of 63. Luther was a glutton and a drunkard, and by his own admission, he indulged himself to excess. Apparently, he drank up to two litres of fortified wine with every meal in addition to large quantities of beer.

Luther's first German translation of the scriptures omitted 25 books (i.e., Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Esther, Job, Ecclesiastes, Jonah, Tobias, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach (i.e., Ecclesiasticus), Baruch, 1 and 2 Maccabees, Matthew, Luke, John, Acts, Romans, Hebrews, James, Jude and Revelation. Luther referred to the Epistle of James as 'straw not worthy to be burned in my oven as tinder'. He referred to other books as 'Judaizing nonsense'.  

If Rosebrough is unable or unwilling to see that Luther was a vile person who was theologically ignorant and unqualified as a leader and teacher then he is in spiritual darkness. (Matthew 7:5).

1. "Luther and Hitler: A Linear Connection between Martin Luther and Adolf" by Daphne M. Olsen (rollins.edu)
2. Martin Luther - "The Jews & Their Lies" (jewishvirtuallibrary.org)

Further Links

On The Jews and Their Lies : Martin Luther : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive
German Peasants' War - Wikipedia
'Slay the mad dogs': How Luther betrayed the peasants' revolt that he inspired (christiantoday.com)
Chris Rosebrough Calls Dr. Michael Brown - The Sins of Martin Luther (youtube.com)

Tuesday 12 March 2024

ONE CHURCH LEICESTER: CLOSURE OF SIX DEGREES COFFEE HOUSE

One Church is an Assemblies of God (AG) Church in Leicester which has tangible links to the false teachings of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) having close ties with false prophet Simon Braker and other "prophetic" influences.1  Like many NAR churches, their somewhat "cool" image conceals a much darker agenda.

The AG is the world's largest Pentecostal denomination representing 65 million people. The AG has published a number of papers officially rejecting several key NAR teachings. Despite this, many individual pastors and leaders, including the Hinds, regularly flout these guidelines and introduce all kinds of aberrant NAR doctrines into their churches.

AG: "The New Testament does not make provisions for establishing the prophet in a hierarchical governing structure of the church; in fact, the content of prophecy itself should always be tested by and responsible to the superior authority of Scripture. However, the church should long for authentic prophecy with a message, which is relevant to contemporary needs and subject to the authority of Scripture."2

ONE Church: "After 8 wonderful years, we are announcing that 6 Degrees will be closing their doors this Easter. The shop was set up in 2016 as a social enterprise to bring profits to Open Hands & bless the community around Leicestershire through their compassion ministries. Throughout this journey, 6 degrees has fulfilled these aims and been a huge blessing on London Road. Over this last season, 6 Degrees has continued to be a blessing but has faced challenges in turning a profit. It’s now time to gracefully conclude this chapter and celebrate the wonderful journey it has been. Our heartfelt gratitude and prayers go out to our dedicated staff and volunteers as they transition to new opportunities.." 

Six Degrees Coffee House is one of the most macabre stories I have ever reported on! Six Degrees was opened in 2016 by Trinity Life Church Leicester (now ONE Church). The profits from Six Degrees apparently go to the work of Open Hands Trust which was founded on lottery money in 2006! Not only was TLC's application for lottery funding unbiblical, it also went specifically against Assemblies of God guidelines.The most infamous thing about 6 Degrees was its ungodly signage which sported the number 666 for a considerable period of time.



The latest in a long line of bad decisions undertaken by the Hinds is their acceptance of an alleged prophecy to find "a watchtower at a high place" in order to hear from God! (Matthew 18:20). The location they chose for this heathenish act was Holyhead Mountain on Anglesey with its strong Druidic connections. Mark and avoid these false teachers/prophets. (Romans 16:17).  their glory is in their shame.. (Philippians 3:19).

But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. For among them are those who creep into households and capture weak women, burdened with sins and led astray by various passions, always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth. Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men corrupted in mind and disqualified regarding the faith. But they will not get very far, for their folly will be plain to all, as was that of those two men. (2 Timothy 3:1-9).

1. Prophetic Apostolic ministry | Legacy Ministries International
2. Assemblies of God (USA) Official Web Site | Apostles and Prophets (Official A/G Position Paper) (ag.org)
3. Facebook
4. Assemblies of God (USA) Official Web Site | A Biblical Perspective on Gambling (ag.org)

Further Links

Tuesday 27 February 2024

CALEB CORNELOUP (iTHINKBIBLICALLY) VS FALSE TEACHER DR MICHAEL BROWN

My Full Discussion With Dr. Michael Brown On False Prophecy (youtube.com)
Is NT Prophecy Fallible? Post Discussion Thoughts On Michael Brown (youtube.com)

Re: Caleb Corneloup's (iThinkBiblically) discussion with Dr Michael Brown streamed on the 21st of February and post-discussion thoughts streamed on the 24th of February. The discussion focused on the gift of prophecy and the danger of false prophecy. 

Some viewers commented that Corneloup should not have debated Brown due to concerns that he has given him a platform or that he has compromised. I do not think that Corneloup has compromised, but Brown is not someone I would ever dialogue with. In my view, he is an extremely dangerous false teacher, a guileful twister of the scriptures, and a person to mark and avoid. (Romans  16:17). Brown wants to be friends with everyone and he supports the worst of the charismatic NAR false teachers. The danger this man poses to young or immature Christians is inestimable and I would not encourage anyone to listen to him.    

Corneloup made the comparison between false prophecy, homosexuality, and adultery, all of which carried the death penalty in the Old Testament. (Deuteronomy 13:5,18:20). False prophecy is utterly condemned in the scriptures and is described as detestable, idolatry. abomination, false visions, lying divinations, delusions of their own minds, destructive heresies etc. The scriptures denounce false prophets as teaching rebellion against the Lord..  by their own authority. (Jeremiah 5:31,14:14  Ezekiel 22:28; Lamentations 2:14; 2 Peter 2:1). False prophets fill people with vain hopes and lead God's people astray. (Jeremiah 23:16; Ezekiel 13:9; Zechariah 10:2). The consequences for false prophets and those who listen to them are grave. (Jeremiah 27:15; Matthew 7:19-23; Revelation 21:8).

Corneloup evaluates Brown's discernment as "off" but surprisingly he thinks that he is a "brother". A bible teacher who is "off" on such a critical issue as prophecy does not rightly handle the word of truth, a critical qualification for bible teachers! (2 Timothy 2:15; James 3:1). If Brown is a believer, he should have realized many years ago that his NAR friends are false prophets, that he himself is a false prophet, and that he is a stumbling block and a bad influence on the church. No amount of obfuscation can excuse his behaviour. 

Debunking Brown's "inner ear" eisegesis

The Lord GOD has given me the tongue of those who are taught, that I may know how to sustain with a word him who is weary. Morning by morning he awakens; he awakens my ear to hear as those who are taught. I offered My back to those who struck Me, and My cheeks to those who tore out My beard. I did not hide My face from scorn and spittle.(Isaiah 50:5-6).

Brown eisegetes verse 5 to apply to modern-day false prophets who claim to hear God through an "inner voice". This passage does not refer to the alleged "inner ear" of modern-day prophets. The context of Isaiah 50:5 concerns the Servant of the Lord, the Messiah. This is the third of the "Servant Songs" (Isaiah 42:1-9,49:1-12,50:4-9,52-53). The passage continues with the prophecy of Jesus' crucifixion fulfilled in Matthew 26:67,27:26; John 19:1. 

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. (John 10:27 cf. 10:3-5).

This verse refers to Jesus' voice at the time of His preaching, and subsequently the preaching of the gospel. There is overwhelming evidence that modern-day false prophets deviate from the gospel and that their prophecies are unreliable. The antithesis to this verse is John 10:8, the hierarchical, especially Pharisaical, antagonists of Christ. Interestingly Jesus says to the false prophets I never knew you.. (Matthew 7:23). John 10:27 does not support extra-biblical "inner ear" revelations.  

Fallible prophecy debunked

Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh (διακρινέτωσαν) what is said. (1 Corinthians 14:29).

According to Brown, this verse refers to the order of the church service and does not refer to the discernment of spirits. 

Corneloup submits the valid argument that the counterpart for prophecy is discernment of spirits. (1 Corinthians 12:10). All the major commentaries agree that this verse refers to discernment i.e. "the others" should judge whether the source of a prophecy is from the Holy Spirit. The Greek verb διακρίνω is to distinguish, to judge. 

Ellicott: "Only two or three prophets are to speak in each assembly on each occasion; the others (not "other," as in English version) who had the gift are to sit by silent and judging, i.e., determining whether the utterances were from the Spirit of God. (See 1 Corinthians 12:3; 1 John 4:1)."

Pulpit Commentary: "St. Paul is not encouraging the Corinthians to the consoriousness of conceited and incompetent criticism, but only putting them on their guard against implicit acceptance of all they hear; which was a very necessary caution at a place where so many teachers sprang up."

Meyer: "Καὶ οἱ ἄλλοι διακρ.] and the other prophets, who do not take part in speaking, are to judge: whether, namely, what has been said proceeds really from the Spirit or not."

Expositors Greek Testament: “'The others' are the other prophets present, who were competent to speak (1 Corinthians 14:31); these silent prophets may employ themselves in the necessary 'discernment of spirits' (see 1 Corinthians 12:10) —διακρινέτωσαν, acting as critics of the revelations given through their brethren." 

Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil. (1 Thessalonians 5:19-22).

It is absurd to teach that we should dissect a prophecy into true parts and false parts. If any part of a prophecy is false, then it should be rejected as its source is not the Holy Spirit. False prophets introduce a little leaven and they put truth next to error. (Galatians 5:9).  

2. 1 Corinthians 14:29 Commentaries: Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others pass judgment. (biblehub.com)

Tuesday 20 February 2024

NOT NEGLECTING TO MEET TOGETHER: THE ABUSE OF HEBREWS 10:25

..not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. (Hebrews 10:25).

This post addresses the difficulty many believers experience in finding a sound church in these perilous times and the habit of false teachers to trot out Hebrews 10:25 out of context.  

In context verse 19 begins "Therefore brothers.. which is a continuation of the previous section which describes the sacrifice of Jesus Christ in contrast to the Mosaic Law. (2 Timothy 2:15).

Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. (hebrews 10:19-25).

It is interesting that Arthur W Pink made the distinction that "not neglecting/forsaking" refers to the total abandonment of the Christian faith. The apostasy and severe deviations from the faith within the New Apostolic Reformation and other deviant groups more than justifies any true believer separating from such. Although I am not a Calvinist and I do not agree with Pink in many respects, his exposition of this passage may be helpful for those who have been made to feel guilty because they find it impossible to fellowship with professing Christians who follow false teachers..  having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. (2 Timothy 3:5).

AW Pink: "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together." John Owen rightly pointed out that, "There is a synecdoche (a part put for the whole) in the word ‘assembling,’ and it is put for the whole worship of Christ, because worship was performed in their assemblies; and he that forsakes the assemblies, forsakes the worship of Christ, as some of them did when exposed to danger." What is here dehorted is the total relinquishment of Christianity. It is not "Cease not to attend the assembly," but "forsake not," abandon not the assembling of yourselves together. It is not the sin of sloth or of schism which is here considered, but that of apostasy. If a professing Christian forsook the Christian churches and became a Mohammedan he would disobey this verse; but for one who puts the honor of Christ before everything else, to turn his back upon the so-called churches where He is now so grievously dishonored, is not a failure to comply with its terms.  

The Greek word for 'Forsake not' is a very strong and emphatic one, being a double compound, and signifies 'to abandon in time of danger.' It is the word used by the agonizing Redeemer on the Cross, when He cried, "My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?" It was used by Him again when He declared, "Thou wilt not leave My soul in hell, neither wilt Thou suffer Thine Holy One to see corruption" (Acts 2:27 ). It is the word employed by Paul in 2 Timothy 4:10 , 'Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world.' It is found in only one other place in this epistle, where it is in obvious antithesis from the verse now before us: 'He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee' (Hebrews 13:5 ). Thus it will appear that a total and final abandonment of the public profession of Christianity is what is here warned against.

One may therefore discern how that verse 25 supplies a most appropriate link between verses 23, 24 and verse 26. Verse 25 prescribes another means to enable the wavering Hebrews to remain constant in the Christian faith. If they were to 'hold fast the confession of faith without wavering,' and if they were to 'consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works,' then they must not 'forsake the assembling' of themselves together. The word for 'assembling together' is a double compound, and occurs elsewhere in the New Testament only in 2 Thessalonians 2:1 : 'our gathering together unto Him,' that is unto Christ; this also shows that the 'assembling together' here is under one Head, and that the 'forsaking' is because He has been turned away from.

To enforce the above caution, the apostle adds, 'as the manner of some is.' The Greek word for 'manner' signifies 'custom,' and is so translated in Luke 2:42 . This supplies additional confirmation that the evil against which the Hebrews were dehorted was no mere occasionally absenting themselves from the Christian churches, but a deliberate, fixed and final departure from them. In John 6:66 we read that 'From that time many of His disciples went back, and walked no more with Him'; John also wrote of those who 'went out from us, but they were not of us' (1 John 2:19 ); whilst at the close of his labors Paul had to say 'All they which are in Asia be turned away from me' (2 Timothy 1:15 ). So here, some who had made a profession of the Christian faith had now abandoned the same and gone back to Judaism. It was to warn the others against this fatal step that the apostle now wrote as he did compare 1 Corinthians 10:12 , Romans 11:20."

1. Hebrews 10 - Pink's Commentary on John and Hebrews - Bible Commentaries - StudyLight.org

Thursday 15 February 2024

EMMA STARK: SPURIOUS DISTINCTION BETWEEN "FALSE PROPHETS" AND "UNFAITHFUL PROPHETS"

Emma Stark Shares What May Be Coming in 2024... (youtube.com)

In this video self-proclaimed New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) "prophets" Emma Stark (Global Prophetic Alliance) and Alan "bishop" Didio (Encounter Today cult) defend their counterfeit version of the prophetic.  

Didio: "We have a baby in the bathwater mentality. People are very scared of false prophets, they are very scared of false prophecy.. How do we get past the mistakes of the past?" 

Although I am not a cessationist, I am not surprised that many believers have turned away from charismata given the monstrous deception of those who claim to be "Apostles" and "prophets" today. Emma Stark advocates restoration and repentance for the false prophets who have made what she refers to as "mistakes". This is a gross trivialization of the destructive nature of false prophecy. Repentance is available to everyone of course, even presumptuous NAR false prophets. However, I have not noticed any of them either repenting or stepping down from their alleged ministries. It is critical to understand what a terrible sin false prophecy is. The only New Testament book that does not warn about false prophets is Philemon. Zechariah declares that false prophets have an "unclean spirit" (Zechariah 13:2). Ezekiel declares that false prophets practice "divination". (Ezekiel 13:23). Jeremiah declares that false prophets prophesy "lies" in God's name. (Jeremiah 14:14,23:25, 27:10,14-16,29:21,31 cf. Isaiah 30:10; Ezekiel 13:6,16 etc.) In the New Testament, false prophets are referred to as "blots and blemishes reveling in their deception" and  "ravenous wolves" (2 Peter 2:13; Matthew 7:15). The very heart of false prophecy is the Antichrist spirit. (John 4:6; cf. Matthew 24:24). There is no evidence in either the Old or New Testament that prophets make "mistakes" or are "false prophets by accident"; rather false prophets are unregenerate deceivers who are disqualified and condemned without exception. (Romans 16:17). The Greek word for false prophets is ψευδοπροφῆται, transliteration pseudoprophétés, English pseudo prophets.1 

Strongs: "pseudēs: lying, false - Original Word: ψευδής - Transliteration: pseudēs Phonetic Spelling: (psyoo-dace') - Part of Speech: Adjective - Short Definition: lying, false - Meaning: lying, false. Strong's Concordance false, lying - From pseudomai; untrue, i.e. Erroneous, deceitful, wicked -- false, liar."2  

The scriptures make a clear distinction between the "dreams" and "imaginations" of false prophets and God's authentic word.

I have heard what the prophets have said who prophesy lies in my name, saying, ‘I have dreamed, I have dreamed!’ How long shall there be lies in the heart of the prophets who prophesy lies, and who prophesy the deceit of their own heart, who think to make my people forget my name by their dreams that they tell one another, even as their fathers forgot my name for Baal? Let the prophet who has a dream tell the dream, but let him who has my word speak my word faithfully. What has straw in common with wheat? declares the LORD. Is not my word like fire, declares the LORD, and like a hammer that breaks the rock in pieces? Therefore, behold, I am against the prophets, declares the LORD, who steal my words from one another. Behold, I am against the prophets, declares the LORD, who use their tongues and declare, ‘declares the LORD.’ Behold, I am against those who prophesy lying dreams, declares the LORD, and who tell them and lead my people astray by their lies and their recklessness, when I did not send them or charge them. So they do not profit this people at all, declares the LORD. (Jeremiah 23:25-32 cf. Jeremiah 16:12).  

Poole: "..but if any man hath dreamed an ordinary dream, let him tell it as a dream; let him not entitle God to it. And he that hath my word, let him speak my word faithfully; and let him to whom I have revealed my will publish and declare that in all truth and faithfulness, not adding his own fancies or dreams to it, 2 Corinthians 2:17 1 Peter 2:2, not corrupting my word."3 

Zechariah describes the false prophets who survive "the day of the Lord" who barely escape with their lives.

And on that day, declares the LORD of hosts, I will cut off the names of the idols from the land, so that they shall be remembered no more. And also I will remove from the land the prophets and the spirit of uncleanness. And if anyone again prophesies, his father and mother who bore him will say to him, ‘You shall not live, for you speak lies in the name of the LORD.’ And his father and mother who bore him shall pierce him through when he prophesies. “On that day every prophet will be ashamed of his vision when he prophesies. He will not put on a hairy cloak in order to deceive, but he will say, ‘I am no prophet, I am a worker of the soil, for a man sold me in my youth. (Zechariah 13:2-5 cf. Zechariah 12:3-4,6,8-9,11).

Blackest darkness is reserved for false prophets 

Woe to them! For they walked in the way of Cain and abandoned themselves for the sake of gain to Balaam’s error and perished in Korah’s rebellion. These are hidden reefs at your love feasts, as they feast with you without fear, shepherds feeding themselves; waterless clouds, swept along by winds; fruitless trees in late autumn, twice dead, uprooted; wild waves of the sea, casting up the foam of their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever. (Jude 1:11-13 cf. 2 Peter 2:17).

Emma Stark has decided to make a spurious distinction between "false prophets" and "unfaithful prophets". Emma Stark: "False prophets are in bed with Jezebel out to destroy the church.. I don't think most of the prophets that you and I work with have that mind, that ugly ugly nonsense, you know heretical mindset of the destruction of the church, so let's push that to one side.."  The scriptures never make a distinction between "false prophets" and "unfaithful prophets"! Satan's devices are subtle and deceptive!

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 11:13-14).

False prophets who attempt to give themselves a pass for their alleged "mistakes" are in grave error and they should not continue as "prophets". Within the NAR almost everyone wants to be a "prophet" and they are even willing to pay for the title! Interestingly those genuinely called to the office in the Old Testament were often reluctant prophets e.g. Jeremiah 1:6; Amos 7:14; Exodus 4:10; Judges 6:17; Jonah 1:1-3. Emma Stark speaks in terms of "prophets" being 20, 40, 60, and 80-watt lightbulbs. In other words, within the deceptive NAR world, prophets will never prophesy anything that is error-free. Emma Stark makes a puny attempt to substantiate this by alluding to 1 Corinthians 13:9: "we only see in part". If Emma Stark's eisegesis is correct, then the Old Testament prophets and Jesus' apostles made "mistakes" but we know that the scriptures are inerrant. (2 Peter 1:21; 2 Timothy 3:16).

In context.. this passage does not give anyone carte blanche to claim that prophecy is inaccurate.  

As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when the perfect comes, the partial (mer'-os) will pass away. When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part (mer'-os); then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known. (1 Corinthians 13:8-12).

The definition of the Greek word mer'-os = a part, share, portion.4 A prophetic word cannot be "imperfect" or "inaccurate" since the very source of prophecy is God Himself whose words are flawless. (Proverbs 30:5; Psalm 12:6,18:30).

It is not for "20-watt lightbulb prophets", or anyone else for that matter, to "have a go" or "experiment" with prophecy. Much less the scriptures do not give anyone the go-ahead to use their "creativity" and "practice" the gift of prophecy - God forbid! Jeremiah was an inexperienced youth when the Lord called Him. If the Lord had put His words in the mouths of NAR "prophets" they would by definition be accurate!

Then I said, “Ah, Lord GOD! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.” But the LORD said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’; for to all to whom I send you, you shall go,

and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the LORD.” Then the LORD put out his hand and touched my mouth. And the LORD said to me, “Behold, I have put my words in your mouth. See, I have set you this day over nations and over kingdoms, to pluck up and to break down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.” (Jeremiah 1:6-10 cf. Isaiah 6:6-8).  

The New Testament is unequivocal, believers should mark and avoid false prophets.  

But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in my name that I have not commanded him to speak, or who speaks in the name of other gods, that same prophet shall die.’ And if you say in your heart, ‘How may we know the word that the LORD has not spoken?’— when a prophet speaks in the name of the LORD, if the word does not come to pass or come true, that is a word that the LORD has not spoken; the prophet has spoken it presumptuously. You need not be afraid of him. (Deuteronomy 18:20-22).

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).

Confusing prayer with prophecy? 

The fact that false prophets do not know the difference between prayer and prophecy is further evidence that they are ignorant and unqualified. Emma Stark: "..be diligent enough in care of peoples lives to not promise what God is not saying... These are lives.. How dare we ravage the sheep with thoughtless words because we didn't hold ourselves to a biblical standard.. I am going to stand before the judgement seat of God one day and He is going to say 'I never said that'.." These "fine words" give Emma Stark the appearance of credibility. The passage she refers to makes it clear these charlatans will receive much more than a rebuke - eternity itself is at stake!  

Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’  (Matthew 7:22- 23). 

Emma Stark: "I think that the dominant atmosphere of the church is the atmosphere of Antichrist.. because our default setting/behaviour is accusation, betrayal, offense, heresy hunting, put on trial mindsets, inquisition, task forces under the guise of a misapplication of Matthew 18. Now that we all nod and smile is the standard protocol, that is not the standard protocol of Christ, whose love covers, who is slow to anger, who says in Corinthians 'and now regard no one from a worldly point of view'..  So you are layering these Christ scriptures, and we find that we make Church deeply unsafe because we are Antichrist in culture.." 

In other words, according the Emma Stark, those who practice the spiritual gift of "distinguishing between spirits" and warn against false prophets are "Antichrist in culture". (1 Corinthians 12:10; 1 John 4:1). This distorted view of Christ promotes "love" without truth and disregards the repeated warnings about false christs and false prophets in the scriptures. (Matthew 24:24; 2 Peter 1:15 etc.). We must see evidence of genuine repentance before "fervent charity" can be extended towards false prophets. 

The remainder of this video is full of various aspects of NAR "prophetic" nonsense that I will not address in this post. 

1. Strong's Greek: 5578. ψευδοπροφήτης (pseudoprophétés) -- a false prophet (biblehub.com)
2. STRONGS NUMBER G5571 (kingjamesbibleonline.org)
3. Jeremiah 23 Matthew Poole's Commentary (biblehub.com)

Friday 9 February 2024

ONE CHURCH LEICESTER: DEEP CONCERNS


Find a watchtower - really? 

In November 2021, God allegedly spoke to David and Susan Hind through a "prophecy" to '"Come up higher, find a watchtower, give everything to Him, and He would speak to us." They relate that in January 2022 they found a small mountain with a watchtower at the top, climbed it, knelt down, and told Jesus we were available. According to the Hinds, God confirmed that it was time for Trinity Life Church (TLC ) and All Nations Church Leicester (ANCL) to join together. Problematically for the Hinds, the Lord would not have indicated that any true congregation join with NAR-infested ANCL. Only another similar apostate group would have considered such an ungodly association. In January 2023 the Hinds knelt down once again in the same watchtower, and they claim that God put his confirmation on the renovations for the One Centre. In January 2024 they climbed the mountain yet again, and they claim that God spoke to them for the third time at this location. There are some very serious issues with this story. Apart from anything else, it reveals that David and Susan Hind are the exclusive decision-makers concerning the future of One Church, and that no elders, or anyone else for that matter, are involved in the process. It seems that all they have to do is play the "God spoke to me" card. In a bona fide church, the proper thing to have done would be to gather together corporately with the elders and seek the Lord's guidance. 

I find it highly questionable that the Lord would direct any believer to go to a particular place to pray, to seek Him, and to hear from Him. The New Testament informs us that the Holy Spirit dwells within believers. (1 Corinthians 6:19). Christians are free to pray anywhere and at any time. (Matthew 18:20). In the Old Testament legitimate sacrifice was limited exclusively to the Jerusalem Temple. However, the Israelites often worshipped illegitimately at "high places"  which were situated on on elevated ground and were dedicated to idol worship. God condemned this practice repeatedly. (Deuteronomy 12:2; Numbers 33:52; Leviticus 26:30; 1 Kings 14:22-24; 2 Kings 12:3, 14:4,15:4,35,23:5 etc.) These sites were eventually destroyed during King Josiah's reforms. (2 Kings 23:1-20). Once again the Hinds cause great concern with their "words from the Lord". It is very ominous that they should act upon an alleged prophecy to find a watchtower at a high place! Even worse, if that is possible, of all the sites they could have chosen for this heathenish act, Holyhead Mountain on Anglesey with its strong Druidic connections, is no place to perform an ostensibly "Christian ritual". Mona (Anglesey) was the headquarters of the Druids between 100BC and 60AD. Holyhead Mountain (Welsh Mynydd Twr, from mynydd 'mountain, unenclosed land' and twr 'a heap, pile') is the highest point on Anglesey.1  Mynydd Twr was likely the Druids most "holy" site where they performed human sacrifices and other unspeakable atrocities. The use of a crystal ball to foretell the future is attributed to the Druids.2 The Druid presence on the Island of Anglesey even shocked and repulsed the barbaras Romans.

Ancient Origins: "To the Romans, who first encountered these native holy men during Julius Caesar’s skirmish in 55 BC, the religion, gods, and practices, including human sacrifice, were abhorrent, yet it would take over a hundred years for them to crush the sacred Druidic home and bring an end to their wicked traditions during the conquest of Anglesey." 3

Museum.wales: "A number of sources describe the druids as performing human sacrifice. Places of worship were described as isolated wooded groves and near sacred pools and lakes. According to one source, the druidic groves on Mona (Anglesey) had the blood of prisoners drenched upon their altars..
The druids have long been associated with Anglesey in popular imagination. The historical evidence upon which this association is based is an account by the Roman author Tacitus, who wrote of the Roman conquest of Anglesey:

'On the beach stood the adverse array [of Britons], a serried mass of arms and men, with women flitting between the ranks. In the style of Furies, in robes of deathly black and with disheveled hair, they brandished their torches; while a circle of Druids, lifting their hands to heaven and showering imprecations, struck the troops with such an awe at the extraordinary spectacle that, as though their limbs were paralysed, they exposed their bodies to wounds without an attempt at movement. Then, reassured by their general, and inciting each other never to flinch before a band of females and fanatics, they charged behind the standards, cut down all who met them, and enveloped the enemy in his own flames. The next step was to install a garrison among the conquered population, and to demolish the groves consecrated to their savage cults; for they considered it a pious duty to slake the altars with captive blood and to consult their deities by means of human entrails.' (Translated by John Jackson, published by William Heinemann, 1951).4 

The site model or the Acts Model?

The Apostle Paul set the blueprint that God has laid down for every church. The churches set up by the Apostle Paul were autonomous congregations where a plurality of elders were appointed. (Acts 6:3-6, 14:23; Titus 1:5). This was done for a reason! Autonomy helps to prevent abusive leadership and the spread of error. We have seen the results of various non-biblical models such as Willow Creek (Bill Hybels), Hillsong (Brian Houston), Mars Hill (Mark Driscoll), Jesus Army (Noel Stanton), IHOP (Mike Bickle) etc. Unhealthy and damaging consequences occur when churches are led by one man, or in this case one couple, which in itself is unbiblical. (1 Timothy 2:12). Those who claim that God has shown them differently are going explicitly against His blueprint. 

Bible Questions:“These churches, whenever formed, became separate and independent bodies, competent to appoint their own officers and to administer their own government without reference to subordination to any central authority or foreign power. No fact connected with the history of these primitive churches is more fully established or more generally conceded, so that the discussion of it need not be renewed at this place” -Lyman Coleman, Ancient Christianity Exemplified, pg. 95)."5 

Susan Hind: "We felt Him tell us again that He is pleased with us.. His favour is with us..  and we were reminded that He will always lead us along the right path.. We also felt the Father bring us back to the original vision of sites which was a larger tent with many smaller tents surrounding it.."

The criteria for any prophecy is: Does it align with the written word? The scriptures always take precedence over any alleged verbal prophecy or "word" from the Lord. Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh what is said. (1 Corinthians 14:29 cf. 1 John 4:1).

In their own name.. by their own authority!

The word that Susan and David Hind received regarding their church model is not a prophecy from the Lord. I know firsthand that I am not the only person to have challenged them about this. However, they have chosen to ignore both the scriptures and the counsel of godly people. This false prophecy also invalidates Susan's further "prophecies" regarding an airplane and Isaiah 60:17-18 which forms part of a millennial passage that does not apply to the Church Age. In essence, the Hinds have decided how they want to do things. (1 Samuel 15:20-22). This is a recipe for disaster! God's favour rests upon those who obey His Word. The Hinds are self-promoters and proven false prophets who blatantly flout the scriptures.

..the prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests rule at their direction; my people love to have it so, but what will you do when the end comes? (Jeremiah 5:31 cf. Jeremiah 14:14,29:24).

I remain very concerned about the Hinds illicit ministry and the way that they lurch from one ungodly scheme to another. These two false prophets should be marked and avoided. (Romans 16:17; 2 Timothy 3:13).

Eternity is at stake!

Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’ (Matthew 7:21-23).

1. Holyhead Mountain - Wikipedia
2. Where did the crystal balls come from? – Historical Archive (historicalarchivemagazine.com)
3. The Conquest of Anglesey and the Destruction of Druidism’s Last Stronghold | Ancient Origins (ancient-origins.net)
4. https://museum.wales/
5. The Local Church and its Autonomy (biblequestions.org)

Sunday 4 February 2024

DR MICHAEL BROWN'S LETHAL DOUBLESPEAK: WITCH DOCTOR PROPHETS

Enough Already with the Trump Prophecies! (youtube.com)

In the above video, Michael Brown voices his deep concern about the failed Trump prophecies of 2020 and he complains that many "prophets" have not recognized or admitted their failure or taken accountability. Even after Trump lost the election in November 2020, many self-appointed false prophets persisted in their folly. They claimed that the election result would be overturned - they were 'courageously holding onto truth against all the odds', and they urged their followers to do the same. In some cases, they issued threats to anyone who dared to question them. False prophets behave as though it is a given that they are “God’s anointed” and they misuse the verse "touch not my anointed'" (1 Chronicles 16:22 cf. 1 Samuel 26:9-11; Psalm 105:15). These threats often have the effect of instilling fear into the hearts of anyone who opposes them, since to question the authority of the prophets is tantamount to disobeying God Himself! This is wicked wicked behaviour! False prophets represent themselves as unaccountable and untouchable and they orchestrate things in such a way that they are at liberty to continue in their falsehood unrestrained and free from scrutiny. (1 John 4:1). The sheer number of false prophets and their unholy NAR network gives them the appearance of credibility. (John 7:24). There is nothing new under the sun. (Jeremiah 6:13). When their prophecies fail they simply adapt them. For instance, Kat Kerr predicted a "landslide victory" for Trump. Afterward, she blamed her audience for misunderstanding her meaning. These "prophets" refuse to be held to account, even when their "prophecies" utterly collapse! It is like nailing jelly to a wall. 

Christianity Today: "On the morning of November 4, as the country woke up to the news that Joe Biden was in the lead, Jeremiah Johnson sent out a 'prophetic warning' to his mailing list, saying he and a 'chorus of mature and tested prophets' were in agreement: Trump had won."1

Jeremiah Johnson: "I'm prophetically warning you: This is the hour to fast, pray, and stand in agreement with what the prophets have accurately prophesied: Donald J. Trump will win re-election."2

Jeremiah Johnson: "They should not apologize. In fact, in the coming weeks many of them will be harassed and slandered. It will be nothing more than a Satanic attack to rattle them and challenge the faith of the people of God."2

Subsequently, Johnson climbed down, admitted that he was wrong, publicly apologized, and brought his ministry to an end. However, his absence from "ministry" was short-lived! Two months later he founded another ministry called The Ark Fellowship Church and The Ark Global Movement. 3 Johnson continues to promote "prophetic dreams" and other such nonsense.4 

Kris Vallotton (Senior Associate Leader of Bethel Church Redding):“I was wrong. I take full responsibility for being wrong. There's no excuse for it. I think it doesn't make me a false prophet, but it does actually create a credibility gap. And a lot of people trust me, trust my ministry and I want to say I'm very sorry for everyone who put their trust in me,” Paradoxically and absurdly, making a false prophecy doesn't make someone a false prophet according to Vallotton! Vallotton later removed his video and backtracked on his apology.5 

Michael Brown: "Either you are right or you are wrong. Either you are courageously holding on to truth when everything is against you, are courageous in your faith and it's going to pan out, and in January.. whatever the date of the inauguration when Trump is inaugurated, we are going to say 'Wow you held strong and we honor you'. I said if you're wrong we're not going to throw you under the bus you need to be humble.."

Following the inauguration of Biden, Brown condemned the unholy antics of the false prophets who doubled down and continued to prophesy that Trump would take office: "This is garbage, this is outrageous and drivel, this brings reproach to the name of Jesus it brings reproach to the things of the Spirit it makes all charismatics look bad and it taints Christians in general who voted for Trump because you all get blamed for this nonsense.. those putting it forth need to grow up and wake up and repent and stop dishonoring the Holy Spirit and stop dishonoring the name of Jesus.. there's egg on our face because of all the failed and false prophecies.."

Brown's warning to the false prophets

Brown: "We are in a big crisis still. It was a big mess, there was a lot of presumption a lot of error, a lot of deception, a lot of sin, and very little accountability and very little repentance.. Many Believers are experiencing a crisis of faith right now who'll be there to pick up the pieces? How could all the prophets be wrong to the extent that you urged your hearers to hold on to the very end. To that extent, you are responsible for bringing them to this point of crisis. Worse still, some of you issued prophetic threats to those who questioned your words, telling them they had to believe the prophets or else, and you did this while claiming to speak directly for God. The Lord does not take it lightly when his people are abused like this and He will hold you responsible for misrepresenting Him.. One woman who falsely claims to be a prophet said that God had been making a list noting who was listening to the prophets and who was not, and she gave this on a major prophetic network.. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 14 that all believers, and he never rescinded this, this remains a command today that all of us should earnestly pursue the spiritual gifts especially prophecy that was never rescinded.. I believe if the Spirit is saying anything about Trump and prophecy the word is 'stop with the Trump prophecies already we should have learned from the debacle in 2020.'"

If the instruction that spiritual gifts (including the gift of prophecy) have not been rescinded (1 Corinthians 14:1), then neither has the instruction to reject false prophets been rescinded! Every single New Testament book, apart from Philemon, warns against, denounces, condemns, and rejects false prophets: Matthew 7:15-20,24:11,24; Luke 6:26; 1 Timothy 6:3-5; 2 Peter 2:1; 1 John 4:1; Jude 1:12-13 etc. 

These men are hidden reefs in your love feasts, shamelessly feasting with you but shepherding only themselves. They are clouds without water, carried along by the wind; fruitless trees in autumn, twice dead after being uprooted. They are wild waves of the sea, foaming up their own shame; wandering stars, for whom blackest darkness has been reserved forever. (Jude 1:12-13).

Michael Brown's doublespeak

Following his stern rebuke, inexplicably Brown goes on to affirm these charlatans as authentic prophets despite their terrible track record of failed prophecies, despite the fact that they have taken the Lord's name in vain, despite damage to the body of Christ, and despite bringing the gospel into disrepute. Brown's distinction between Old Testament prophets and "contemporary prophetic ministry" is indefensible. Brown's appeal "lets fix it together", is not only unbiblical, it obviously has not worked since these wolves continue on their ungodly course unabated. 

Brown: "..if you are one of those who say the Bible is my authority, well Paul explicitly says categorically, as an exhortation, as a command, to earnestly seek spiritual gifts, especially that you can prophesy. He says 'I would that you all prophesy' He says 'it's great to speak in tongues, but I would that you all prophesy' ..It's an exhortation, 'earnestly seek to prophesy and don't forbid tongues'. That's what Paul wrote, so that's a mandate to me. But then he says later in that same chapter, in chapter 14, 'two or three prophets should speak and the others should weigh carefully what is said'. In other words, in the New Testament, it's not a matter of the death penalty for say a prophet who is a national leader who speaks presumptuously, this is not even an innocent mistake. He speaks presumptuously and gives a word that God is not spoken, or he speaks in the name of other gods, it's not an innocent mistake. This is what Satan says 'oh I made a mistake I meant to say Jesus'. No this is not an innocent mistake this is presumption, this is the sin of presumption. There was a death penalty for that. We're not talking about that now in the New Testament. We're not talking about a false prophet misleading the people that needs to be rebuked and excommunicated. That would be the equivalent in the New Testament for the death penalty. For example, under the Old Testament Law, under the Sinai Covenant, if someone commits adultery they would be put to death. In the New Testament if it's a believer who commits adultery and they don't repent they're excommunicated, they're put out. So we're not talking about some false prophet that we we recognize as false and say you're not even a true believer, or someone that refuses to repent of their false prophecies so we excommunicate them.. In 1 Thessalonians 5, Paul says 'don't despise prophecies'. That means there's going to be something about prophecies that could be despised - sounds silly, these people are emotional, sometimes they get things wrong. Whatever it would be, Paul says don't despise them. Their language sounds strange, no don't despise prophecies, test everything hold fast to that which is good and don't put out the Spirit's fire. So its very plain, don't put out the Spirit's fire, don't quench what the Holy Spirit is doing, Don't do that, don't throw out the baby with the bath water - we got burned we're going to reject everything..   None of this waffle is biblical!   

The wrong question: Are they well-intended?

Was Hananiah "well-intended" when he prophesied falsely in the house of the Lord? (Jeremiah 28:1-17). 
Was Uzzah "well-intended" when he put forth his hand to the ark of God and took hold of it? (2 Samuel 6:6).

Asking whether a "prophet" is "well-intended" is the wrong question. (Isaiah 55:8; Jeremiah 17:9; Hebrews 4:12). The right questions are: 
What is the source of their prophecy?
Do their prophesies pass the test of scripture? (1 John 4:1).  

False prophets are witch doctors!

Jeremiah describes false prophets using divination: Jeremiah 14:14, 27:9, 29:8; Ezekiel 13:6, 22:28; Revelation 19:20.  

The New Testament instructs believers to mark and avoid false prophets:

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 cf. 1 Timothy 6:3-4).

Although Brown appears to be very reasonable in human terms, his words are worthless. During the last few minutes of this video, he reveals his utterly flawed view of the gift of prophecy.

Brown: "We're not talking about someone who refuses to repent and so we excommunicate them, we're not talking about that." We are precisely talking about that!
"..We're talking about believers who are trying to hear what the Spirit is saying, and one says this, and another says this, other says this. Now okay let's discern carefully what's the Lord saying in this, alright?  ..these people are emotional sometimes they get things wrong whatever it would be, Paul says don't despise them."

There is no distinction either in the Old Testament or the New Testament between those who get a bit emotional, those who get carried away, those who make a genuine mistake, and those who speak presumptuously. The Trump fiasco should have been a huge wake-up call for millions of Christians. Believers should reject everything that comes from the mouths of proven false prophets! While gullible people continue to support these wolves nothing will change. (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).

1. ‘How Could All the Prophets Be Wrong About Trump?’ | Christianity Today
2. Facebook
3. Jeremiah Johnson dumps ministry name for new one | Church & Ministries News (christianpost.com)
4. Dreams - Jeremiah Johnson
5. Bethel's Kris Vallotton says apologized too soon for prediction | Church & Ministries News (christianpost.com)

Monday 29 January 2024

J JOHN @ ONE CHURCH LEICESTER: IS JESUS EVEN IN THE CAR?


Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— (1 Peter 2:2).

J John is described by One Church as "a world-renowned speaker, author and evangelist". This event at One Church was comparable to the Billy Graham Crusades. It is estimated that Billy Graham preached to more than 200 million people during his crusades with a significant number of "converts".  However, when Billy Graham held his crusades, he had a pre-agreement with the Roman Catholic church and other false denominations to allow new converts to attend their churches for "discipleship". The RCC teaches the fatal compromise of faith plus tradition. In other words, responders or converts were sent straight into the hands of Satan. Without true understanding and a solid foundation, Satan will snatch away what has been sown in the heart. (Matthew 13:19, 7:24-27). There is much more to be said about Billy Graham's Satanic compromise. (see further links). 

J John has much in common with Billy Graham

The critical thing that One Church failed to mention is J John's lethal compromise with the false gospel of Roman Catholicism. (2 Corinthians 11:4). The English Fundamentalist describes J John's betrayal of the gospel: J John Facing the Canon Exposed - False teacher of Church Apostasy (youtube.com)   

J John is an Honorary Canon of The Order of St Leonard.  Rob Thomas (watchman4wales) has carried out extensive eye-opening research on The Order of St Leonard: APOSTASY, ERROR & DECEPTION IN WALES - the watchman4wales blog.: Order of St. Leonard

J John: "I would imagine, for many of us here.. He (Jesus) is already in the car of our lives. Ok, so He's in.. Where is He? Do you drive your car to church, unlock the boot, get Jesus out for religious happy hour? ..Some people have got Jesus on the back seat, a bit of a passenger. Some people have got Him in the front passenger seat.. a companion. Some people have got Jesus in the driving seat.. I have got one more question for you. Are you a backseat driver? ..How do we know He is in the driving seat?" 
 
If you are ecumenical Jesus Christ is not in the car!

Biblically anyone who compromises with the false gospel of Roman Catholicism (ecumenism) and the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) stands in opposition to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Salvation is by grace through faith plus nothing! 

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9).

My hope and prayer is that anyone who genuinely responded to J John's message will grow in the true faith once for all delivered to the saints. (Jude 1:3-4). 

Further Links

WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: Billy Graham (bewareofthewolves.blogspot.com)
More Bewildering Statements From Billy Graham (deceptioninthechurch.com)
THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH PREACHES A DIFFERENT GOSPEL : Apprising Ministries