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)
Search This Blog
Showing posts with label New Apostolic Reformation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New Apostolic Reformation. Show all posts
But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. (2 Corinthians 11:3).
Mike Winger is the featured teacher of BibleThinker online ministry. He graduated from the School of Ministry at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa and was ordained in 2006.1 Winger abandoned his post as an associate pastor in Southern California, and he is now described as an "influencer".
I recently became very alarmed by Winger's attendance at the Charlie Kirk memorial and his subsequent announcement that he was "changing" and was considering involvement in the gospel combined with political activism. This is, of course, fraternization with the world and has nothing to do with pure devotion to Christ. Winger was seen happily chatting with Calvinist Jeff Durbin at the Kirk memorial. What I find troubling about this is that Winger seems to have difficulty drawing the line between calling out false teachers and fraternizing with them. Winger appeared to be the best of friends with Durbin at this event, which is surprising considering his in-depth series calling out Calvinism as unbiblical and the fact that many believers regard Calvinism as a "different gospel". (2 Corinthians 11:4; Romans 16:17-18)2
Winger has recently attended a TPUSA meeting together with Ray Comfort to "see what he thinks".3 This is a no-brainer. Christ explicitly repeated the phrase, "My kingdom is not of this world".
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).
Winger: "I am going to take down an artificial barrier that was stopping some of my activity of thinking biblically about everything.."4Winger said this was an off-the-cuff "random weird livestream". It is never a good idea to do something like this on the spur of the moment without prayer and due consideration, especially considering the huge implications of Winger's newideas. There was hardly any scripture in the entire 1:15-hour livestream; what scripture there was was twisted by worldly reasoning! (30:55 mark) As a so-called "influencer", Winger is on the cusp of deceiving his entire audience of approximately 100,0000 into worldly thinking and deflecting them from the true purposes of God! (Matthew 16:23). This is a massive issue! Charlie Kirk-style debating about moral issues is to go beyond the remit of Christian ministry. Conviction of sin is the work of the Holy Spirit! (John 16:8 cf. John 15:26-27). The primary sin of the world is unbelief. (John 16:9). Believers are called to preach the gospel and make disciples of all nations, nothing more. (Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:47). The New Testament teaches that it is those within the church we should judge; God will judge those outside. (1 Corinthians 5:12-13).
The considerable efforts of some to sanitize Charlie Kirk's legacy should fool no one. Kirk was a fast talker and a skilled debater whose opponents consisted largely of inexperienced college students who were no match for his considerable rhetorical expertise. In many instances, he "won the argument" due to what in my view were bullying tactics. On close examination, Kirk has been proven to be contradictory and factually wrong in a number of instances.TPUSA is a worldly organization that seeks to attain political dominion, hence their allegiance to many NAR false teachers who promote Dominion Theology. Charlie Kirk was heavily invested in the unbiblical NAR Seven Mountain Mandate.
The "Third Way" theology within TPUSA represents a complex interplay between political activism and theological fidelity, challenging believers to navigate the complexities of contemporary culture while adhering to their faith. The critical question is whether political activism and adherence to faith can be combined or whether they are mutually exclusive. Jesus Himself did not involve Himself in the politics of His time, and neither did His apostles. The political realm is part of the worldly system of corruption and will ultimately be used by the Antichrist as his vehicle to gain ascendancy. TPUSA has been described as a threat to democracy and has been linked to white nationalism and Christofascism.
It should be noted that Satan is presently in authority over worldly powers. Jesus rejected worldly power and dominion when he rejected Satan's offer of "all the kingdoms of the world". The required compromise is "if you will fall down and worship me.."
Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to him, “All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me.” Then Jesus said to him, “Be gone, Satan! For it is written “‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.’”Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him. (Matthew 4:8-11).
You adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore, whoever chooses to be a friend of the world renders himself an enemy of God. (James 4:4 cf. 1 John 2:15-17; Romans 12:2).
Dominion theology and true faith in Christ are at variance with one another. Any Christian supporting TPUSA must abandon biblical eschatology and realign their faith to political dominionist eschatology rooted in this world.
Will TPUSA and Dominionism make a positive difference in the world? Not according to Jesus. Jesus described a multiplication of wickedness and a deterioration of the world in the last days.
Jesus answered, “See to it that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, claiming, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. These things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains.....For as were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.. (Matthew 24:4-8,37 cf.Genesis 6:5).
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).
And I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies gathered to make war against him who was sitting on the horse and against his army. And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur. And the rest were slain by the sword that came from the mouth of him who was sitting on the horse, and all the birds were gorged with their flesh. (Revelation 19:19-21 cf.Revelation 16:14).
Further Concerns
As recently as November 2022, Winger claimed that he would "absolutely" fellowship with false churches like Bethel.. I will not throw out the baby with the bathwater. I think that Bethel is not a church full of demons. Bethel is a church full of people that are sincere, that have some things off.. I would still fellowship with them. I would still call them my brothers and sisters in the Lord. Absolutely."5I was concerned about this statement at that time, but I gave Winger the benefit of the doubt. Winger only changed his mind about Bethel when he received severe pushback and was shamed into issuing a retraction. I now regard Winger's statement at that time as a red flag and a harbinger of things to come. Having given this matter further consideration in light of recent events, it seems incomprehensible that a discerning Christian teacher could have missed Bethel's blasphemy and failed to call them out adequately. Bethel Redding is a hotbed of aberrant NAR New Age unbiblical teachings, including spiritual fakery, grave suckng, and the prosperity gospel.6
Winger "About those objections to hell..." 28 September 2023: "I am open to the idea of annihilationism or conditional immortality.."7 (10:42 mark). At the same time, Winger affirms the existence of hell. This kind of double-talk is very unhelpful and waters down the gospel.
Recently, I reported on Winger's interview with Elijah Stephens, where it was assumed that false teachers could be reinstated. Winger: "This video is made to help stir up positive change in the movement." Stephens repeatedly made protracted appeals to Shawn Bolz and Bethel leaders to take accountability and to reform their ministries.8 Once again, Winger apparently failed to comprehend that Shawn Bolz and Bethel leaders are utterly disqualified and should never assume the role of teachers within the body of Christ, even if they do repent.
Mike Winger's recent exposure of cult leader Steven Koko, the so-called "predator of Panama",9 involves close collaboration with hypercharismatic false teacher Torben Sondergaard, founder of The Last Reformation.10 Sondergaard is a "thus saith the Lord" leg puller and demon slayer who hijacks people into false repentance. (See further links) Again, I am not dismissing Winger's claims against Koko, and it appears that in this instance, there are viable witnesses to the abuse. However, no bona fide Christian apologist should collaborate with false teachers like Sondergaard > the means do not justify the ends.
What Winger describes as his epic fight against "cover-up culture" may seem very worthy, but it is problematic. Winger's response to Koko's "goons" is "over my dead body". This sounds very courageous, but Christ is not looking for lone ranger heroes who ignore his precepts, just faithful servants.11
Winger: "Over my dead body. Steve Koko's goons are already threatening people with legal action, trying to get my video removed. Can I reply to them right here? My reply: If we got anything wrong reach out to me and tell me. But, if you are trying to intimidate and control, doing Cover-Up Culture (as I suspect) then I want you to know that every action you take will only make things WORSE for you. I will shine the light on your acts and the things you do to try to continue intimidating and controlling people. If my video has anything wrong in it, I will happily deal with it. But, when it comes to lies, threats, and bullying, my only response to you is 'over my dead body.'"
Having now done a much deeper dive into Mike Winger's ministry, he puts me in mind of compromiser Michael Brown, who speaks out of both sides of his mouth and makes excuses for false teachers. I now regard Winger as unsafe, and critically, he is potentially part of the false light of the political right.
The aim of this post is to examine Charlie Kirk's faith and to compare some of his attitudes and beliefs to those found in the Bible. This post does not concern the conspiracy theories surrounding Kirk's murder.
Kirk was a "professing Christian", i.e., he claimed to be a Christian, he proclaimed the gospel accurately on a number of occasions, and he was generally considered to be a champion of biblical values. Many naive people assumed that Kirk was an authentic Christian. However, there were significant issues contained within Kirk's theology that were incompatible with his profession.
Ecumenism
The essential criterion that marks out a true believer is that he/she keep God's word. If you love me, you will keep my commandments. (John 14:15 cf. John 14:23-24; 1 John 5:3,2:3-5,3:22-24; 2 John 1:6; John 15:10,14. Matthew 7:21 etc.)
Kirk attended Dream City Church in Phoenix, Arizona, where he worshiped and hosted political rallies. Dream City Church (formerly Phoenix First Assembly of God) is a multi-site Pentecostal megachurch affiliated with the Assemblies of God USA.
Kirk also occasionally attended Mass at St. Bernadette Catholic Church in Scottsdale, Arizona, and openly acknowledged that he was ecumenical. He spoke about his respect for Roman Catholicism and the possibility of his conversion. In an interview reported by Crisis Magazine, he said: “Some of my greatest friends in the world are Catholic…I go to Catholic Mass every once in a while. I don’t take the Eucharist…but I’m open-minded, but I’m not there yet.”1
In an interview with Church Militant, Kirk said, "The world is a better place because of the Catholic Church, and that needs to be said more. He went on to express that he has 'so much respect for the Catholic Tradition and Church.'" 1
Kirk was, in fact, steeped in Roman Catholicism. Kirk's wife, Erica, was raised a Roman Catholic and attended Notre Dame Preparatory, a private Catholic high school in Scottsdale, Arizona. She is a practicing Roman Catholic, and it is reported that she attends Mass daily.2
Online pictures show the Kirks visiting the National Basilica in Washington, D.C., along with photos of Charlie Kirk attending Mass. Erika raised a rosary to onlookers as her husband's body was transported home.3 On a recent episode of his podcast, Kirk spoke about the "Blessed Mother" and mentioned how he was close to Father Don Kline, pastor of St. Bernadette Catholic Church in Scottsdale, Arizona, and how his wife was baptized Catholic.
EWTN: "During a July 16 episode of 'The Charlie Kirk Show' on “Real America’s Voice,” Kirk explained that he believes Protestants do not venerate or talk about Mary enough. He said she “is the solution” to “toxic feminism in America.”
“Mary was clearly important to early Christians,” Kirk said. “Have more young ladies be pious, be reverent, be full of faith, slow to anger, slow to words at times. Mary is a phenomenal example, and I think a counter to so much of the toxicity of feminism in the modern era.”4
Many evangelicals voiced concerns that these remarks were tantamount to a slide toward Roman Catholic tradition.While bible believing Christians respect Mary, she is not the answer to toxic feminism or anything else. To cross the line into the kind of "veneration" that verges on Mariolatry is sinful. In my view, Kirk blurred the lines, or was in the process of blurring the lines, between true biblical Christianity and its antithesis, Roman Catholic tradition. (2 Corinthians 11:4). In essence, ecumenism is a violation of the first commandment to prioritize God above all else. You shall have no other Gods before me. (Exodus 20:3; Deuteronomy 5:7; Matthew 22:36-38 cf. 2 Corinthians 11:14).
In a recent statement, Kirk's pastor at Turning Point USA, Rob McCoy, said, "Many Protestants, mainly Baptists and evangelicals, do not believe Catholics are Christians. If we are to learn anything from Charlie, it's to know Charlie did not believe this. Even though we have no evidence to show Charlie was on his way to the CC, Charlie very well believed practicing Catholics were Christians. And my encouragement to Baptists and evangelicals alike is to take this position as well."5
Mormons
Kirk: 'I love how Mormons send missionaries around the world, I love how polite they are.. Half my team is Mormon.. Mormons are great people.. I'm an evangelical Christian, but I'm not one of those guys that hates on Mormons.. We need a strong Mormon church back in this country.."6
Kirk claimed that he did not endorse Mormonism. However, he actively sought to get Mormons on board with his political agenda. The fact that Mormons send missionaries around the world indicates that they are spreading a false gospel. Why would the US "need a strong Mormon church" spreading a different gospel? (2 Corinthians 11:4).
New Apostolic Reformation > Dominion Theology
Kirk was involved with the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR), an aberrant movement that seeks to influence society through Dominionist Theology. Kirk made public statements promoting the NAR agenda, particularly the "seven mountain mandate," at events such as the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). Kirk collaborated with prominent leaders within the NAR, such as Lance Wallnau, and he participated in the strategy to turn religious congregations into active participants in political campaigns, especially for candidates aligned with the "America First" agenda.7
"Right Wing Watch reported last week that Kirk had endorsed California congressional candidate Sean Feucht, a worship leader at Bethel megachurch and a favorite of dominionist 'apostles' and 'prophets.' It turns out that endorsement was the tip of the iceberg of Kirk’s partnership with a group of California-based pastors connected to Christian nationalist political operative David Lane."
The implications of Kirk's association with NAR leaders raises the critical issue of ecclesiastic separation of church and state. When dominionists conflate the kingdom of God and earthly power, they compromise the gospel. Jesus made a critical distinction between the kingdom of God and earthly dominion. 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).
For Kirk, MAGA (Make America Great Again), and the goal of winning/maintaining political power over the Democrats took precedence over the command of biblical separation. The biblical mandate for believers to separate themselves from sin and worldly influences and to maintain holiness was entirely absent from Kirk's theology. (2 Corinthians 6:17; Romans 12:2; 1 John 1:6-7; Galatians 5:16; Ephesians 5:11).
Shabbat
Kirk strictly observed the Jewish Sabbath, Shabbat. In an interview, he recommended that Christians follow Shabbat, and he was due to publish a book on the subject, 'Stop, in the Name of God: Why Honoring the Sabbath Will Change Your Life', which is now scheduled to be published posthumously in December.
Kirk's teaching and book on this subject will undoubtedly influence Bible believers to observe Shabbat. However, the New Testament does not require believers to observe Shabbat or any Jewish Festival. Shabbat observance was a specific commandment to the Israelites, not to Gentiles.
The Israelites must keep the Sabbath, celebrating it as a permanent covenant for the generations to come. It is a sign between Me and the Israelites forever; for in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, but on the seventh day He rested and was refreshed.(Exodus 31:16-17).
Within Orthodox Judaism, any Gentile who observes Shabbat must be circumcised or be put to death. Circumcision was a practice that Paul vehemently opposed in New Testament churches. (Galatians 5:2).
"Rabbi Yose bar Hanina said: A gentile who keeps Shabbat before [i.e. without] accepting circumcision is liable for death. Why? Because they [gentiles] were not commanded in it. And why did you see fit to say that a gentile who keeps Shabbat is liable for death? R. Hiyya bar Abba said R. Yohanan said: in the normal way of the world, if a king and matron sit and converse with one another, one who comes and inserts himself between them – is he not liable for death? Similarly this Shabbat between Israel and the Holy One blessed be He, as it is said “between me and the Israelites [it is an eternal sign]” (Exod. 31:17). Therefore, any gentile who comes and inserts himself between them before accepting upon himself to be circumcised is liable for death."8
Kirk did not claim that it is obligatory to observe Shabbat. However, he extolled the benefits of doing so, and he presented persuasive arguments in favour of the practice. Paul is clear; if we want to observe days and years, then we are free to do so. However, we should not seek to influence others, and we should keep such matters between ourselves and God. Christians are not obliged to submit to Old Testament practices to gain particular blessings. Gentile believers alreadyhave every blessing in Christ. (Ephesians 1:3).
Interestingly, nine of the original ten commandments given in Exodus 20 are referenced in the New Testament. However, the fourth commandment regarding the Sabbath is not mentioned as a statute that Christians are obliged to keep. This is becauseJesus embodies the true rest and fulfillment of the Sabbath. So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his. (Hebrews 4:9-10).
Formerly, when you did not know God, you were enslaved to those that by nature are not gods. But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more? You observe days and months and seasons and years! I am afraid I may have labored over you in vain. (Galatians 4:8-10).
Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ. (Colossians 2:16-17).
One person esteems one day as better than another, while another esteems all days alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. The one who observes the day, observes it in honor of the Lord. The one who eats, eats in honor of the Lord, since he gives thanks to God, while the one who abstains, abstains in honor of the Lord and gives thanks to God. For none of us lives to himself, and none of us dies to himself. For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died and lived again, that he might be Lord both of the dead and of the living. (Romans 14:5-9).
The black community > divisive rhetoric
Although it is vociferously denied that Kirk was a racist by his supporters, there are clear examples that corroborate this allegation and confirm his damaging, racist remarks against black people.
Kirk frequently cast doubt on the qualifications of black professionals.. In 2024, he said, “If I see a black pilot, I’m gonna be like, boy, I hope he’s qualified.”
On one occasion, he referred to “a moronic black woman” in customer service and questioned whether she was hired “because of her excellence, or … because of affirmative action.” Kirk attacked civil rights leader Martin Luther King: “Clarence Thomas was a far better black role model to celebrate than Martin Luther King. Period. End of story. This guy is not worthy of a national holiday.” At Turning Point USA’s America Fest in 2023, Kirk said, "MLK was awful. We made a huge mistake when we passed the Civil Rights Act in the 1960s."
Kirk referred to journalist Joy Reid, former First Lady Michelle Obama, Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, and Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson as “affirmative action picks", and he claimed they did not “have the brain processing power to otherwise be taken really seriously.”9 Kirk blamed a Black fire chief in Austin, Texas, for flooding deaths that occurred a three-hour drive away from the city.10
Kirk denounced Juneteenth as a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery. Kirk: “Juneteenth should not be a federal holiday.. This holiday is not about celebrating emancipation, regardless of the veneer they put on it.”10
These remarks make sense when the roots and history of the NAR and its ties to Brahnamism, British Israelism, and the Ku Klux Klan are understood.
Collins: "William Branham's mentor was Roy E Davis.. the second in command of the 1915 KKK. Branham was working with not only Roy E Davis.. Davis was working with Caleb Ridley, who was the Klan's Supreme Religious Chaplain, and they were trying to establish, it was a short lived organization called the Supreme Kingdom, but they were trying to establish what today, you could almost say it was the prototype for today's Dominionism.They were trying to invade the government, the education system, the media, the entertainment industry.. Davis rose up to be the next Imperial Wizard of the Klan.. he is promoting Branham.." (40 minute mark)11
Appeasement to the Christian Right
This is not the time to capitulate under pressure from the powerful Christian right. Some surprising people have voiced their approval for Kirk.
If you have raced with men on foot, and they have wearied you, how will you compete with horses? And if in a safe land you are so trusting, what will you do in the thicket of the Jordan? (Jeremiah 12:5).
Below is a selection of viewer comments demonstrating that Good Fight's viewers have more courage and discernment than they do!
* I find this surprising to warn against his heresies that are so destructive. Can yall not see the eucumenical push to come from his death? I am very surprised yall hid the truth during such an important time. Its wild that this is a positive review of charlie and unlisting the video that pointed out the heresies he teaches that will lead many astray... Do yall not understand that many people are googling him and watching his stuff now and will fall into the seven mountain mandate?? Why not allow people to see the truth?
* Good fight: how devastating that you have deleted your vid confronting Charlie on his FALSE TEACHING about Co- redeemer Mary!!!!
How can we possibly TRUST YOU if you crumble under the pressure of Kirk suddenly becoming godhood in his martyrdom!!!
This new vid on Kirk is a GLOWING REPORT OF HOW GREAT HE IS!!!! it's DISAPPOINTING Seriously I'm so SURPRISED!!!
* Unsubscribed. I was very suspicious of you guys to begin with but now it’s confirmed. You do all of these videos on Freemasons yet you can’t see that Charlie Kirk is a Freemason and this was a club event to push propaganda and divide us further? Candace Owens said she’s a mason and one of her recent videos. She comes out and says it. They are all in the club. Maybe you are too.
Michael Grant is currently vacillating on the issue of Kirk's alleged faith. As a result, I have unsubscribed from his YouTube channel. The Faith of Charlie Kirk (1993-2025)
Above: Hind is regurgitating a false teaching that has been circulating within NAR circles for years by false prophets and teachers such as Paul Cain, Bill Johnson, Bob Jones, Todd Bentley, Mike Bickle, Rick Joyner, Emma Stark, and Benny Hinn. Those who teach it often refer to "the seer anointing". They cite the experiences of Jacob, Moses, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Paul, and John etc. These examples are rare pivotal moments in the bible and are not normative experiences. From this false teaching come stories of divine or angelic visitations and outrageous, unverifiable prophesies. Like many false teachings, the "open heaven anointing" is based partly on truth, but the scriptures are warped to an extent that distorts the meaning and gives narcissist wannabes a delusional sense of their own importance as prophets or seers.
And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:16-17).
After 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.” At once I was in the Spirit, and behold, a throne stood in heaven, with one seated on the throne.. (Revelation 4:1-2).
The epistles are the manual for believers to follow. We have instructions for holy living and are required to trust God and to humbly follow him. Significantly, the miracles in the above passages were not coveted or sought by the people involved. Rather, they were initiated by God Himself and are powerful moments in redemptive history. Taking verses out of their original context and using them as a blueprint for how we should hear from God when the circumstances of the story are completely different is extremely problematic.
The noun δύναμις > power (Acts 1:8). Dynamite was the interpretation frequently used by false teacher Reinhard Bonnke. δύναμις comes from the English dynamic or dynamite. However, as with many faith healers with tall stories and claims of mass "miracles", Bonnke was exposed as a fake in a HBO video in 2011: A Question of Miracles (Faith Healing) Part 1
Strong's: "From dunamai: force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself) -- ability, abundance, meaning, might(-ily, -y, -y deed), (worker of) miracle(-s), power, strength, violence, mighty (wonderful) work."1
Hind's manic OTT style, his revisionist history of TLC/One Church, his false prophecies, exaggerations, out-of-context teaching, and ethical compromises are highly dubious on many levels.
Hind puts the Bible at the top of his list as a way of hearing God's voice. However, his own careless handling of scripture and his inaptitude fall woefully short of the biblical standard required of a pastor. (James 3:1). Hind's "confident assertions" are based on myth and mere speculation. (1 Timothy 1:3-7).
Hind demonstrates the folly and presumption of using scripture to validate ungodly decisions. He quotes Genesis 12:1-2 in order to justify his move to Leicester in 2007 as God's will. In fact, Hind was allegedly "invited" to come to Leicester by Brian Niblock, who failed to support the man whom he had trained for years as his successor, and arguably the man who was called to lead TLC. If Niblock had done the right thing, the whole church would have supported him. Niblock's weakness and capitulation to the three elders at that time was a pivotal moment in the life of TLC! Almost as soon as Hind arrived at TLC, there was a discernible drop in biblical standards. After witnessing Hind's ungodly style of leadership, it was not long before a number of attendees, including myself, began to have grave concerns about his competence as a pastor. This woeful beginning has progressed into a long list of unethical decisions and damnable statements ethusiastically spewed by Hind during his tenure at TLC/One Church.
Further examples..
In 2013, God allegedly spoke to "them" to become a multisite church: "Enlarge the place of your tent.." (Isaiah 54:2). As far as I am aware, no one questioned the fact that this alleged prophecy does not fit the New Testament autonomous leadership model of church leadership.
In 2021, Hind claims that he was given a "prophetic word" from Habakuk 2:1. "The Lord wants you to climb up". From this alleged "prophetic word" came the union of TLC and All Nations Church Leicester (ANCL), which was a "shipwreck". When churches host false prophets like Emma Stark and Heidi Baker and are rabid NAR proponents, we are to mark and avoid them, not join with them! The temptation of acquiring the building on Frog Island was no doubt a significant factor in theirdecision to unite with ANCL.
Hind's failed "imminent revival" prophecy of 2022 is clear evidence that he is a false prophet.
David Hind (1st May 2022): "This is a fulfillment season, an outbreak season."2
(Deuteronomy 18:32; Ezekiel 13:13; Jeremiah 23:16; 2 Peter 2:1-3).
Hind frequently insists that One Church is not about ego or about him personally.
Hind: "Sometimes we can get this picture, this green room culture of the mighty man or woman of God, separate from the people coming in. I don't want to disappoint you, but that ain't us because without the grace of God, I'm done."
Methinks Hind protests too often and too much! Authentic godly leaders do not need to speak such things or repeat them at every opportunity. If Hind is as humble as he claims, then he would not refer to himself as "an apostolic leader of leaders". Only a narcissist would adopt such a title. A true man of God, confident in his calling, would not find this kind of repetition necessary. The constant reminders of his so-called "calling" are a tactic to convince others and possibly even himself that he is authentic.
Dr Jesse Collins: "Often religious leaders use Bible scriptures or scripture-like soundings, or they'll say they had a vision of something, and this vision told them X, and they'll keep repeating these lines over and over again.. a repetition of mantras is a common, well-known worldwide control mechanism for people.."3
The standards required for testing spiritual gifts have been ignored by NAR false prophets, and the resulting abuse and damage to believers is glaringly obvious. The latest abominable "prophecy" from Mike Bickle's sister, Lisa Bickle Stribling, is one of the most shocking examples I have seen: Survivors of Mike Bickle’s Alleged Sex Abuse Condemn His Sister’s Attempt to Discredit Them
Believers are required to test everything and not just accept any "word" allegedly from God. (1 John 4:1). If a prophecy fails, then that man or woman is to be marked and avoided! (Romans 16:17-18). Just because Benny Hinn, Todd Bentley, Shawn (smartphone) Bolz, Mike Bickle, and David Hind (fill in the blank) claim to have received a word from God, we should not automatically believe them; in fact, quite the reverse, since these men are proven false prophets.
Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind.. (Colossians 2:18).
We are in very dangerous territory when we imagine that God is communicating something to us that cannot be validated by the scriptures or fails to come to pass. Every book in the New Testament, apart from Philemon, warns about false prophets and teachers. Paul anticipated this problem within the church. I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to admonish every one with tears. (Acts 20:29-30).
For those ready to deconstruct from NAR indoctrination and onslaught, I recommend Leaving the Message*, which traces the development of the NAR to the cult of William Branham. Branham's cult has many deep historical connections to the AoG.*
"Leaving the Message is a project of William Branham Historical Research, critically examining William Marrion Branham (a.k.a. William Marvin Branham, 1907–1965), a Pentecostal revivalist and doomsday prophet whose teachings gave rise to authoritarian cults and spiritual abuse. We trace his influence into N.A.R., Latter Rain, Word of Faith, and Deliverance ministries."
The host of Leaving the Message, John Collins, and his co-host Charles Paisley are former members of the Branham cult and are well qualified to evaluate its complex history and influence. The sect known as 'The Message' or 'The Message of The Hour' is a label adopted by Brahnam's followers. The movement continues to exist, having followers in North America, Latin America, Africa, Europe, Australia, and many parts of Asia.1 Collins and Paisley describe Branham as "A Pentecostal revivalist and doomsday prophet whose teachings gave rise to authoritarian cults and spiritual abuse."
Branham claimed to have received an angelic visitation on May 7th, 1946, that allegedly commissioned his worldwide ministry and launched his campaign career. His fame spread exponentially, and many people were drawn to his accounts of angelic visitations and reports of the miraculous at his meetings. Branham's ministry spawned many emulators and was the catalyst for the broader healing revival that later became the modern charismatic movement. In all, Branham claimed to have received seven (actually eighteen) visions from God dating from 1933. These visions have been debunked as fabrications on the following link: William Branham's 1933 Visions .. Debunked! - Episode 33 William Branham Historical Research Podcast : John Collins, Charles Paisley : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive In actuality Branham was a plagarist whose primary source was the "prophetic" writings of 17th century mystic Jane Lead.*
Steve Montgomery: "Driven by 'ongoing revelations' and through 'borrowing' and plagiarizing the written works of the Esoterically-inspired, 17th century mystic and 'prophetess' Jane Lead, these 'prophets' of the Latter Rain developed the idea that 'all things' to be achieved in the 'end-times' would occur through the essentially deified 'corporate Body of Christ' prior to the literal, physical, personal return of the individual Jesus Christ."2
The preamble gives a brief insight into the history of Branhamism. For the purposes of this post, I will limit my focus to the Shepherding Movement, aka the Discipleship or Covering Movement, which was established as a discipleship network during the 1960s by five charismatic teachers based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. These five teachers became known as "The Fort Lauderdale Five": Charles Simpson, Bob Mumford, Derek Prince, Don Basham, and Ern Baxter. The emphasis of the Shepherding Movement was on spiritual accountability, submission to authority, and close discipleship relationships. All five of these men were deeply influenced by William Brahnam. In particular, Ern Baxter was Branham's campaign manager between 1947 and 1953. Baxter often shared a platform with Branham, and their joint meetings were frequently referred to as the "Baxter-Branham meetings". Eventually, Baxter became disillusioned and parted company with Branham in 1953/4.2
Ern Baxter: "In the ministry with William Branham, I saw a dimension of the supernatural, that had in it such seeds of Christian unity and other good fruits that my excitement was hard to contain. But when I saw carnality start to invade the movement - exaggeration, misrepresentation, metaphysics and eventually the breakdown of many of the healers in critical areas of their lives, because they couldn't handle the crowds, the popularity or the money - I had to withdraw from it.."3
Competing schisms subsequently developed from Branham's cult, and he became a catalyst for the Latter Rain Movement. The key component in these schisms was the emphasis on the five-fold ministry consisting of prophets, apostles, elders, preachers, and teachers (as outlined in Ephesians 4:11). The movement was based on ungodly hierarchical apostolic–prophetic structures with "prophets andapostles" claiming direct authority from God. Many direct parallels can be drawn between the Latter Rain Movement and the governance structure of the NAR. The most striking parallel is the alleged authority of modern-day "prophets and apostles" and their claim to receive direct, unverifiable revelations from God.
The discussion proper about Derek Prince begins at the 29:00 mark. Prince came from a high socioeconomic status (SES) and attended Eton College and Cambridge University. Those coming from high SES backgrounds often have an entrenched attitude of entitlement. In my view, Prince's assumed "spiritual authority" was based on his privileged background rather than on calling and spiritual maturity. (Romans 8:5-9).
Prince cultivated a close association with Branham and the Assemblies of God, which was the largest branch of the Latter Rain movement during the 1950s and 1960s. In 1962, Prince moved to Canada from Kenya, where he had been a missionary, and he became a US citizen. He subsequently became pastor of the AoG Broadway Tabernacle in Seattle, where he ministered alongside key Latter Rain player and elder James A. Watt of Sharon Orphanage. Prince also became involved directly with Branham and the Full Gospel Business Men's Fellowship International (FGBMFI). His association with Branham led to a move to the AoG Faith Tabernacle in Chicago.4 Paisley contends that Prince's ministry was entirely facilitated by his association with Branham: "Derek Prince had to get William Branham's blessing in order to share the stage with him."
The Shepherding Movement consisted of pyramid structures of "sheep and shepherds" that demanded the total submission of the lower ranks to the five-fold ministry as a requirement for "perfection" or what they referred to as "maturity". Rank and file members were required to submit to an authority figure known as a "shepherd" who micromanaged their lives via"covenant relationships". The shepherds in turn submitted to the Five or their subordinates. Members were not permitted to make lifestyle decisions, including marriage, house moves, career choices, visits to doctors, etc. without the permission of their shepherd. The authoritarian structure and rigid disciplinary requirements of the Shepherding Movement resulted in profound negative consequences on the lives of its rank-and-file members and their families. An insightful comment made by Charles Paisley is that the "shepherds" usurped the role of the Holy Spirit and personal accountability to God. (36:00 mark) The Shepherding Movement received increasing negative publicity as reports of severe spiritual abuse emerged. Eventually, due to pressure from Pat Robertson (CBN), who was also a false teacher, Prince left the movement in 1984, stating that they had been "guilty of the Galatian error: having begun in the Spirit, we quickly degenerated into the flesh."5
Prince's "repentance", in my view, is suspect. My contention is that the Shepherding Movement was always rooted in the flesh. It is my observation that false teachers often "repent" when they are backed into a corner and have no other choice. Bob Mumford also publicly repented in 1989.
David Moore's description of the Shepherding Movement is that it "created a propensity toward an abuse of spiritual authority, especially among young immature leaders, or leaders who lacked character and integrity...the emphasis on
hierarchically oriented submission to God’s delegated authorities led to many cases of
improper control and abusive authority throughout the movement."6
A victim of the Shepherding Movement writes: "I grew up in the Shepherding movement. Just like anyone who has grown up in abuse, perspectives of what is normal, loving and correct are skewed. Healing has come so very slowly. This movement affected four generations of my family, my grandmother, parents, an aunt and uncle, myself, cousins and my children. The wounds are deep and serious. It has felt like we have been so wounded that we needed a spiritual ICU, but there isn't one. My older child are now practising non-Christian beliefs, wanting nothing to do with Christianity. My cousins have battled drug addiction as a means to try to forget. A day does not go by that I do not feel the searing pain left on my soul. The Shepherding movement was not of God in any way, shape or form. If the bible states we will know people by their fruit I would have to say that there certainly a great many bad apples that went on to injure others that might other wise have been good fruit."7
"The five were deeply influenced by William Branham [Ern Baxter, one of the 5 had known him], and in turn they deeply influenced others such as the Kansas City Prophets (IHOP), Paul Cain, Bickle and Joyner [were under Wimber who was under Paul Cain]; and Peter Wagner. They are sometimes considered a syncretistic bridge between the New Age occult movement and some Charismatic movements (such as those in the Manifested Sons of God â MSG â branches)."8
This is a cautionary tale for those currently influenced by the NAR. This post barely scratches the surface of the Shepherding Movement and Prince's involvement with Branham. The corroborating evidence, thorough research, and insight of Collins and Paisley are of great value to those seeking to understand the insidious tentacles of Branhamism. This series of videos has much to offer those with "ears to hear".
Despite the obvious failure of the prophecies spoken over Howard Conder by NAR false prophets, the failure of Conder's Spanish "vision", RTV continues to tout for money. Gordon Pettie informed viewers that RTV needs £300,000 in July and August and there followed a barrage of appeals to give generously.
According to Conder, "The Lord could come back at at any time". This is a reference to the false "imminent" or "any moment" pretribulation rapture. One of the major issues for the pretrib camp is their teaching that all seven seals are the wrath of God. Although there are clearly some very troubling events during the 70th week of Daniel,the wrath of God is notannounceduntil the sixth seal is broken. (Revelation 6:16-17). Pretrib teachers claim that no prophesied events will occur before the rapture takes place. However, the bible informs us that the rapture will follow the apostasy (rebellion) and the revelation of the man of lawlessness (the Antichrist).
Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to Him, we ask you, brothers, not to be easily disconcerted or alarmed by any spirit or message or letter seeming to be from us, alleging that the Day of the Lord has already come. Let no one deceive you in any way, for it will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness—the son of destruction—is revealed. (2 Thessalonians 2:1–3).
There are various other reasons why the rapture is not imminent and I recommend the video at the end of this post. Pretrib teachers frequently verge on date setting, and the reckless claim of the Lord's imminent return is often a form of cultish financial manipulation. Viewers are more likely to be "generous" due to their belief in the "imminent return of the Lord" and their "soon" departure.
I was made aware of Conder's adulterous marriage by one of my readers quite recently. Conder left his first wife and two children some time after 1975 and went on to marry Leslie in the early 1980s. He has not made the specific details known but the information on his website is interesting:
"Howard says it is very hard for him to talk about his first marriage and the fallout and split that was caused which was devastating for the two children, Charlotte and Miles. There was a time in the early '80s when Howard was remarried that he wrote a letter to Annette and said how sorry he was for causing such pain to her and subsequently also to their children. Howard remembers clearly that Annette wrote back and was so gracious and said that 'it wasn't all your fault Howard'. Those words were such a comfort to Howard but sadly his daughter Charlotte whom he cherished as his 'little girl', was lost forever. Charlotte has not been able to be at peach with her parents divorce and sadly is not in contact with Howard as Charlotte's husband wrote a very harsh letter to him which is best not to mention at this point as it's too painful for the family and there is always hope of reconciliation.
Howard said that when the family came back from living in America, he was in the Cornerstone Church worship team in Esher and it was during a time of Praise and Worship that the Lord said to Howard leave immediately and go and see your estranged daughter Charlotte who lived nearby.
Without hesitation Howard sneaked out of the church service and knocked on her front door, and being a Sunday morning, Charlotte opened her bedroom window from the first floor and looking down at her dad she said 'Oh its you' and then told Howard to go away.."1
This a further example of Howards "words from the Lord" which are not from the Lord at all, but his own imagination. (Jeremiah 23:16; Ezekiel 13:3-9). False prophets produce false hopes! Frequent claims of receiving "a word from the Lord" or the similar phrase "the Lord led me" often results in bitter disappointment for naive hearers. (1 John 2:1).
For a genuine Christian, particularly someone who aspires to Christian ministry, divorce and remarriage is unacceptable and is a disqualifier. Conder had no business launching himself into "ministry" after his divorce. If a man is not faithful in his own household, then how will he be able to faithfully lead a ministry? (1 Timothy 3:1-7). While he was playing at being a great leader heading up a "Christian ministry" with Leslie, Conder's (real) wife and children were no doubt continuing to suffer the pain of abandonment and divorce.
Apart from his first marriage, Conder has demonstrated his unsuitability in many other ways in the past. One glaring example is that he has given a platform to a number of false teachers including the infamous Benny Hinn. He currently platforms false teachers Andrew Wommack, Joseph Prince and Jesse Duplantis. Inflicting false teachers onto the body of Christ is one of the most wicked things that anyone can do! No doubt Conder thinks it is worth throwing believers to the wolves on the alter of Revelation TV for the financial benefits! All the hype about Spain has come to absolutely nothing and all the alleged prophecies are in tatters. (Matthew 7:20). Nevertheless, Conder and his associates have the shameless audacity to tout for money in the wake of their disastrous record of failure and unfaithfulness.
The video concluded with Conder giving a glowing report about Christian Revival Church (CRC). I know very little about CRC except that they have styled themselves on the dubious megachurch model and that they are egalitarian. CRC was founded by At and Nyretta Boshoff.2 CRC do have one thing in common with RTV! (1 Timothy 6:10).
I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. (Romans 16:17-18 cf. 2 Corinthians 11:13-15).
This podcast was a typical NAR-style motivational speech laced with false teaching.
David Hind's appeal for people to support to One Church, no matter what, is very dangerous and is typical of false teachers. Hind asks people to give their all, their time, their finances, and their energy, not to God, but to the so-called "vision" of One Church! Hind's failed "imminent revival" prophecy of 2022 is clear evidence that he is a false prophet.
* David Hind (1st May 2022): "This is a fulfillment season, an outbreak season."1
Hind: "A prophetic word recently to us said this 'there will be times in the coming move of God when relatively unknown people will get up and preach and the fire of God is going to fall and the power of God will break out miracles and people will say 'who is that person'.. We are called to deep expectation. Jonathan (Conrathe) said recently.. 'One Church will see waves of salvation, waves of conviction, waves of miracles, waves of prodigals..' and we are expectant." The hallmark of many false teachers is hype and expectations rooted in the flesh. The Christian hope or expectation is based on the cross, not in signs and miracles. (Luke 11:29). ..waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.. (Titus 2:13 cf. 2 Peter 3:12-13; Philippians 3:20-21; 1 John 3:2-3).
When believers are persuaded that the "vision" of a church leader is the same as following the will of God for their lives, it is a huge red flag and opens up potential for spiritual abuse. This typically involves pleas for extreme sacrificial giving. Phrases like "He is always worth your best", "We get one life, please play your part", "deep obedience", and "deep expectation" are spiritual manipulation tactics based on guilt. Hard lessons have been learned from the fall of IHOP, Daystar, Hillsong, Shawn (smartphone) Bolz, Benny Hinn, Todd White, Gateway Church (Robert Morris), etc. Many lives are in ruins because of false teachers who demanded that their followers "give their all" to their particular "prophetic" vision.
The careless way Hind handles the scriptures is a clear indication of where he stands spiritually. Words are cheap; it is easy to say "We love God". However, Jesus says: If you love me, obey my commandments. (John 14:15 cf. John 15:10; Matthew 7:21; Luke 6:46;1 John 2:2-3,1 John 3:22-24; 1 John 5:3; 2 John 1:6).
You shall be careful therefore to do as the LORD your God has commanded you. You shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left. (Deuteronomy 5:32 cf. Deuteronomy 28:14; Joshua 1:7; Proverbs 4:27; 2 Kings 22:2; Isaiah 30:21).
The Israelites' idolatry and carelessness are examples for the church. (1 Corinthians 10:1-6). But they did not obey or incline their ear, but walked in their own counsels and the stubbornness of their evil hearts, and went backward and not forward. (Jeremiah 7:4 cf. Isaiah 65:2; Ezekiel 20:8; Hosea 4:16, etc.). Similarly, many church leaders are careless about how they interpret the scriptures; they do not rightly divide the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15).
Go deeper.. breathe in the Spirit!
If a believer sincerely wants to "go deeper" with God, then they should ask! (Matthew 7:7 cf. Philippians 4:6; Ephesians 6:18). Hind: "Why don't we just pause right now and breathe Him in. Just take a breath, just breathe His presence in right now.." When teachers add "breathing in God" to prayer and petition, they go beyond what is written and are entering into the dangerous territory of eastern mysticism and occult New Age practices. (1 Corinthians 4:6). This is the New Testament equivalent of offering "strange (unholy, unacceptable, unauthorized) fire" before the Lord and is contrary to His explicit Word. (Leviticus 10:1-2; Numbers 26:61). Believers receive the Holy Spirit by faith when they are converted. (Ephesians 1:13; Romans 10:25). Hind talks about "pressing forward", but these kinds of occult practices take believers away from the Lord. We might echo Jeremiah in saying these things are unbiblical; they take us backward and not forward.
But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” (John 4:23-34).
Hind: "Our story as a church is a story of grace and miracles.." The story of TLC/One Church since Hind's arrival in 2007 is a story of double standards and flouting God's word. Many things have happened that are against God's will, ranging from lottery funding, Hind's involvement in ecumenical Churches Together, the ungodly antics of Adam Simmonds, nepotism, 6 (666) Degrees Coffee House, tithing, egalitarianism, platforming NAR false teachers and prophets, and on and on.2 No God fearing church leader would dare to describe himself as an "apostolic leader of leaders".
Bible Hub: "Unity in truth, not in deceit, is a biblical mandate that calls believers to align themselves with the truth of God's Word while rejecting falsehood. This unity is characterized by a shared commitment to the Gospel, a rejection of deceitful teachings, and a love that binds the community of faith together. Through this, the church reflects the unity and truth of the Triune God, serving as a witness to the world."3
Mark and avoid false teachers..
I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. (Romans 16:17-18).
I watched all three hours of this video. The comprehensive exposure of Shawn (Smartphone) Bolz and the monumental cover-up by Chris Vallotton, Bill Johnson, and other Bethel leaders was informative but unsurprising.
Where I came unstuck with Winger's video was the protracted personal appeals of Elijah Stephens to Bolz and Bethel leaders to take accountability and to reform their ministries.
Winger: "This video is made to help stir up positive change in the movement." Doesn't Winger know that Bolz and Bethel are utterly disqualified? I feel that Stephen's perception of these NAR false teachers and his hope that they will change is unrealistic and extremely naive. Even if they do repent, they should never assume the role of teachers or leaders within the body of Christ.
Why is an appeal for change unbiblical?
People have been calling out the leadership of Bethel Church for many years, and yet they have continued in their folly. ..while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. (2 Timothy 3:13). Bethel is known for engaging in heretical New Age teaching, false prophecies, alleged angel feathers, gold dust, glory clouds, grave sucking and all kinds of abominations. Similarly, Bolz has been engaged in data mining and false prophecy for years and has done inestimable damage to those he has deceived.
A question for Mike Winger: At what point do we reject false teachers/prophets?
Winger's weak approach is unacceptable, unbiblical, and shows little regard for the sheep. The scriptures do not recognize false teachers/prophets as true believers and commandsauthentic Christians to mark and avoid them.
As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned. (Titus 3:10-11).
If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. / But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ / If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, regard him as you would a pagan or a tax collector. (Matthew 18:15-17).
Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from any brother who leads an undisciplined life that is not in keeping with the tradition you received from us. (2 Thessalonians 3:6)
But now I am writing you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a verbal abuser, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat. (1 Corinthians 5:11).
I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. (Romans 16:17-18).
If anyone comes to you but does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your home or even greet him. / Whoever greets such a person shares in his evil deeds. (2 John 1:10-11).
..having a form of godliness but denying its power. Turn away from such as these! (2 Timothy 3:5).
This video appears to consist of excerpts from a 2009 debate between Steve McCalip and Larry Wessels in which Wessels' views are shown exclusively.1 A debate is a discussion in which opposing arguments are put forward. I have never watched a "debate" where we do not get to hear the opposing arguments!
Pitting Calvinism against TV evangelists is something of a misnomer. Many Christians who reject Calvinism, including myself, also reject the ministries of Billy Graham, CS Lewis, and the ecumenical NAR Word-faith TV evangelists. Given the plethora of false teachings circulating within various denominations, it may seem right to run to Calvinism as a place of safety. However, to put one's faith into the teachings of John Calvin is to lunge from one false teaching to another. The "true gospel" minus the distortions of Calvinism can only be found in the scriptures. (2 Timothy 3:16).
Wessels: "Did Jesus die for everybody who ever lived?" (in contrast to "limited atonement")
..even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom formany (ἀντὶ πολλῶν).” (Matthew 20:28 cf. Matthew 26:28; John 10:15; 1 Timothy 2:6; 1 John 2:2; 2 Cornithians 5:14-15, Hebrews 2:9).
Meyer: "ΠΟΛΛῶΝ] The vicarious death of Jesus may be described as having taken placefor all (Romans 5:18; 1 Timothy 2:6; 1 John 2:2), or for many (so also Matthew 26:28; Hebrews 9:28), according as we regard it as an objective fact (that fact being: Jesus has given His life a ransom for all men), or look at it in relation to the subjective appropriation of its results on the part of individuals (which happens only in the case of believers). So in the present case, where, accordingly, πολλῶν is to be understood as meaning all who believe now and will believe hereafter. (John 17:20)."2
Wessels: "Due to their carnal pride, men naturally object to God's power and sovereignty.. especially in the area of salvation.. and (they) try to say that God loves everybody equally and God wants everybody to be saved."
Many Old Testament passages teach that God hates sinners or evil and wicked people. (e.g. Leviticus 20:23; Psalm 11:5; 26:5; Proverbs 6:16-19; 16:5; Hosea 9:10-15 and Malachi 1:2-3.) Nevertheless, God rescued the wicked city of Nineveh when the people repented. (Jonah 3:6-10). The New Testament asserts that God loves the world and that Jesus died for the sins of the world. (e.g. John 3:16; Romans 5:8;1 John 4:16; 1 John 4:10). The denial that repentance and faith are the key factors that take sinners from the status of God's enemies to his beloved children is perverse. There are many examples in the scriptures where repentance and faith are required as a condition of salvation. (Romans 5:10).
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all.. (1 Timothy 2:1-6).
The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. (2 Peter 3:9).
Wessels: "It is the sinner, not God, who secures salvation...God offers everyone a chance as if he owed it to everyone or anyone, leaving the sinner the work of saving himself by 'accepting Christ'. From this theory, God does not save anyone in particular, just anyone who will have Him. ..This would then make God a respecter of persons, choosing people to be saved based on their own efforts to attain salvation.. Does God choose people to be saved on their own efforts..
The idea that repentance and faith are works is often touted by Calvinists. However, the scriptures are unequivocal: Godcommands all people everywhere to repent.(Acts 17:30).The New Testament affirms that we are saved by grace through faith.. not by works. (Ephesians 2:8-9). Repentance and faith are two sides of the same coin. Salvation involves deep conviction and revulsion of sin and requires faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 4:5 debunks the false assumption that faith is a work: And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness.
The argument that "God is a respecter of persons" because He accepts repentant sinners is totally perverse and wicked. God gives everyone the opportunity to repent, taking no account of status or anything else. The saying, "God is no man's debtor" is based on Romans 11:35. God is sovereign and self-sufficient. He does not rely on humanity for anything, and he has no obligation to save us. Salvation is based on God's grace and unmerited favour. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16). Because of His love, God has reached out to humanity with the gospel. Nevertheless, He requires a response. For some twisted reason, Calvinists equate human response to the gospel with works. But that view goes against the scriptures. (Acts 3:19,20:21,26:20; 2 Corinthians 7:10; Mark 1:15; Revelation 9:21; Luke 5:32,13:3, 24:47; Matthew 3:2 etc.)
Wessels: "If this theory is true, then John the Baptist must have 'accepted Christ' in the womb."
..for he will be great before the Lord. And he must not drink wine or strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb.. And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. (Luke 1:15,41,44).
The gifts of the Holy Spirit are distributed according to God's will. (Hebrews 2:4). In other words, John did not make a conscious decision to leap in his mother's womb in recognition of Jesus as the Messiah; rather, the Holy Spirit came upon John in a specific way when Mary greeted Elizabeth. The pre-birth filling of John the Baptist is unparalleled, indicating John's pivotal role in preparing the way for Jesus Christ. (Malachi 4:5-6; Isaiah 40:3). The Holy Spirit subsequently filled Elizabeth and Mary, both of whom prophesied. We should understand that the conception, birth, and life of John the Baptist was anything but normative. John's recognition of Jesus came by divine revelation when he was baptizing: Then John testified, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove and resting on Him. I myself did not know Him, but the One who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit descend and rest is He who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.” John 1:32-34).
Wessel's insistence that God's offer of salvation to all/everyone does not mean all/everyone (contingent upon repentance and faith) is profoundly dishonoring to God and, in my view, is a blasphemous misuse of His name! (Exodus 20:7).
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.” (John 3:16-21).