JOEL WEBBON (RIGHT RESPONSE MINISTRIES) CONTROL FREAK AND MYSOGYNIST

Five-point Calvinist Joel Webbon of Right Response Ministries is running an abusive regime in his own home! His wife's reading material is micro-managed and she is not allowed to go to women's bible studies. This "pastor" clearly has some major issues! Even his children are regulated as to when they can use the bathroom! The misogynistic behaviour of Calvinists is an absolute scandal. Webbon has taken down this video.

Webbon believes that women should not have the right to vote! "Following new data comparing voter registration and turnout rates between women and men, a group of male leaders associated with Doug Wilson believes the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which gave American women the right to vote, was a mistake.. Webbon noted that the 19th Amendment was a bad idea” because women are 'easily deceived' and are attending 'institutions for deception.'" {1}

1. Why these Christian men believe women shouldn’t have the right to vote – Baptist News Global

HILLSONG: IS BRIAN HOUSTON ANOINTED BY GOD?

 (81) Hillsong Church Global Investigation | 7NEWS Spotlight Full Documentary - YouTube

..evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. (2 Timothy 3:13).

The Houstons have apparently scuttled off to America and are attempting to establish themselves in "ministy" there. 

At Church Unleashed in New York, Brian Houston actually boasted about his pedophile father and described himself as "The son of a prominent pastor/evangelist". Houston: "He was probably the best known of all preachers in that part of the world."  Most Christians would be ashamed of such an association. Bearing in mind that Houston is in the middle of a trial charged with concealing those crimes, such a boast is unconscionable!

Houston frames his problems as "persecution" and "a demonic attack", rather than as the consequences of his own sinful life and decisions. Hillsongs various cover-ups, their obsession with celebrity, money and essentially their obsession with themselves is antithetical to the teaching of Jesus Christ. (Matthew 16:24).

Houston: "The bible teaches that you cannot touch God's anointed ones.  In other words, they are a protected species. The anointing in your life will be opposed and you should never be surprised if God starts to bless you..  I have got a PhD in opposition. I mean I know what it is like to be opposed and be persecuted and to be lied about and come under incredible demonic attack. I know, but the scripture says 'Touch not my anointed'.  The devil can't touch my anointing. The devil can't touch what God has put in my life.. Thank God for His anointing.."

Touch not my anointed ones, do my prophets no harm! (Psalm 105:15; 1 Chronicles 16:19-21). 

This phrase was a warning to the pagan nations not to physically harm the Israelites during the Exodus. (e.g. Genesis 26:11,29 etc.). The phrase concerned the patriarchs, and by implication the Israelite nation as a whole. False teachers such as Benny Hinn, Joyce Meyer and, Kenneth Copeland are well known for using this phrase in a prideful way in order to deflect criticism and avoid correction or rebuke. To use this phrase in the context of New Testament teachers is to take the scriptures completely out of context. (Ephesians 5:11).

Opinion: Hillsong Copies Televangelists' Defense Strategy (julieroys.com)

JOEL RICHARDSON DISINFORMATION: JERUSALEM THE GREAT HARLOT

(31) Debunking Jerusalem as the Great Harlot THE BOOK OF REVELATION Session 58 - YouTube

In this video, Joel Richardson makes a disingenuous attempt to debunk the view that Jerusalem is the Great Harlot of Revelation 17 and 18. Richardson's talent for misrepresenting opposing views should be a matter of serious concern to those who take the time to test his various teachings against the scriptures. (1 John 4:1).

Richardson;  "In the session, I am going to take on the position that Mystery Babylon is referring to present-day Jerusalem, it is referring to an end-time entity. It is referring to Jerusalem at the end of the age just before the return of Jesus. In other words, the Jerusalem of today is in fact Babylon the Great."  

The view that Jerusalem is the Great Harlot refers to eschatological (future) Jerusalem, not present-day Jerusalem. This point is very difficult to miss since two of the best-known scholars who hold this view, Chris White and J Paul Tanner, have gone to some lengths to emphasize that they are referring to Eschatological  (future) Jerusalem. 

Chris White: "I believe Mystery Babylon is the eschatological city of Jerusalem. I chose my words very carefully in this description. In other words, I believe it is the Jerusalem of the end times, where, according to Daniel 11:45, the Anti-Christ sets up his end-times world government and end-times world religion headquarters." {1}

Richardson points out that two women are identified in the book of Revelation, Jerusalem and Babylon, but he is unwilling to admit that it is possible for these two opposing "women" to exist simultaneously in one location. There were two opposing factions within physical Jerusalem in Jesus' time; those who believed and accepted Him as their Messiah, and those who falsely claimed to be the true descendants of Abraham due to their lineage. (John 8:33,39). Jesus identified his primary enemies as the scribes and Pharisees and He did not hesitate to condemn them. (John 8:44-45). The religious hierarchy of Jerusalem continued its fierce opposition to the gospel throughout the Book of Acts and beyond. (Acts 18:5-6). The faction that bitterly opposes Jesus today within Jerusalem will make a strong covenant with the Antichrist for one week (seven years). (Daniel 9:27). If anyone thinks it is anti-semitic to say such a thing, then we should consider how Jesus Himself regarded them.

It should be noted that all true believers are commanded to evacuate Jerusalem at the midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel when the city will be given over to the Antichrist. 

But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation has come near. Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, and let those who are inside the city depart, and let not those who are out in the country enter it, for these are days of vengeance, to fulfill all that is written. Alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! For there will be great distress upon the earth and wrath against this people. They will fall by the edge of the sword and be led captive among all nations, and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. (Luke 21:20-24).

So when you see the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let the one who is on the housetop not go down to take what is in his house, and let the one who is in the field not turn back to take his cloak. And alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! Pray that your flight may not be in winter or on a Sabbath. For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be. And if those days had not been cut short, no human being would be saved. But for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short. (Matthew 24:15-22 cf. Daniel 9:27, 11:31, 12:11; Revelation 13:7).

Richardson promotes the view that Mecca, the centre of the Islamic faith, is the Great Harlot. However, Babylon is defined as a name of mystery, i.e. it is non-literal: And on her forehead was written a name of mystery:“Babylon the great, mother of prostitutes and of earth’s abominations.” (Revelation 17:5). The non-literal name of Babylon is further alluded to in 1 Peter 5:13. It is probable that the place alluded to by Peter is Jerusalem since there is no evidence that Peter ever visited Rome.

Come, I will show you the judgment of the great prostitute who is seated on many waters, with whom the kings of the earth have committed sexual immorality, and with the wine of whose sexual immorality the dwellers on earth have become drunk.” (Revelation 17:1-2,15). Revelation 17:15 identifies many waters as peoples and multitudes and nations and languages. This is an apt description of the Antichrist's authority over the kings of the earth/the earth dwellers during the 70th week of Daniel. (Revelation 17:12-13). 

Richardson's claim that Babylon the Great must be a seaport is another one of his intentional errors. The text indicates that much wealth is made from Babylon the Great by those who earn their living on the sea. At the time of her destruction, the seafarers stood far off. (Revelation 18:17). This indicates that there is some distance between the seafarers and Babylon the Great. Jerusalem is approximately 50km/30 miles inland. It is perfectly feasible that her destruction will be visible from the Mediterranean Sea. One possibility is the seaport of Ashdod which is known as the "gateway to Jerusalem". 

And all shipmasters and seafaring men, sailors and all whose trade is on the sea, stood far off and cried out as they saw the smoke of her burning, “What city was like the great city?” And they threw dust on their heads as they wept and mourned, crying out, “Alas, alas, for the great city where all who had ships at sea grew rich by her wealth! (Revelation 18:17-19).

There can be no doubt that Jerusalem will be the headquarters of the Antichrist and the epicenter of eschatological iniquity. This iniquity will quickly fan out and engulf the entire world following the abomination of desolation event at the midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel. (Daniel 9:27). The Antichrist ..opposes and exalts himself over every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God. (2 Thessalonians 2:4 cf. Matthew 24:15; Daniel 9:27, 11:31-32 ). Jerusalem, especially the future temple, is the most coveted place on earth for the Antichrist (empowered by Satan) to set up his headquarters. The original temple housed God's glory (1 Kings 6:1,37-38; 8:10-11), and it appears that the third temple will be the site of the Antichrist's lying signs and wonders. (2 Thessalonians 2:9). It is difficult to imagine a more wicked place on earth during this 3.5-year period of time. Jerusalem will be the city where the Antichrist will be hailed as the one true god by the inhabitants remaining in the city. There will be a brief moment of victory for the Antichrist and his supporters. (John 8:44). 

..there was found in her the blood of prophets and saints (Revelation 18:24). Jerusalem is held responsible for the blood of the prophets and saints. The words spoken are in the present tense and embrace both the past and the future. : “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you desolate. For I tell you, you will not see me again, until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’” (Matthew 23:37-39 cf. Luke 13:34-35). Opposition to the beast system will arise in the form of the two witnesses, the final martyrs killed in Jerusalem. ..the great city that symbolically is called Sodom and Egypt, where their Lord was crucified (Revelation 11:8). Worldwide persecution against the tribulation saints will arise from the Antichrists headquarters in Jerusalem. (Revelation 12:17, 13:7).

Meyer: Matthew 23:37 ff. "After denouncing all those woes against the scribes and Pharisees, the departing Redeemer, looking with sad eye into the future, sets the holy city also—which He sees hastening to its destruction under the false guidance of those leaders—in a living connection with the tragic contents of Matthew 23:34 ff., but in such a way that his parting words are no longer denunciations of woe, but the deep wail of a heart wounded, because its love has been despised. Thus Matthew 23:37 ff. forms an appropriate conclusion to the whole drama of the discourse. Luke 13:34 introduces the words in a historical connection entirely different." {2}

Jerusalem and Babylon are both described as "the great city" in the book of Revelation. (Revelation 11:8, 14:8, 16:9, 17:18, 18:10). Richardson suggests that this phrase proves no connection between the two cities since other cities are described as "great" in the scriptures e.g. Gibeon (Joshua 10:2), Jericho (Jonah 1:2, 3:2, 4:11). These additional references to great cities in the Old Testament refer to previous cities, whereas eschatologically, the phrase "the great city" is limited to Jerusalem/Babylon.

Richardson's emotive argument pulls on the heartstrings and is based on God's love for Jerusalem and His intent to restore her. These prophecies concerning the future blessings of Jerusalem are obviously true, and yet at the same time, it is clear that Jerusalem's future blessed state comes through judgement and repentance. When Paul stated: all Israel will be saved (Romans 11:26), he was not referring to every single Israelite, but to the remnant who survive the Antichrist's persecution, aka the time of Jacob's trouble (Jeremiah 30:7 cf. Jeremiah 30:22; Hosea 6:1-2; Zechariah 12:10; Joel 2:32). Two-thirds of the Jewish people will perish during the great tribulation. (Zechariah 13:8-9). The surviving remnant of Israel will consist of one-third of the Jewish people i.e. those who call out to the Lord in repentance. (Revelation 12:14). 

And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and pleas for mercy, so that, when they look on me, on him whom they have pierced, they shall mourn for him, as one mourns for an only child, and weep bitterly over him, as one weeps over a firstborn. On that day the mourning in Jerusalem will be as great as the mourning for Hadad-rimmon in the plain of Megiddo. The land shall mourn, each family by itself: the family of the house of David by itself, and their wives by themselves; the family of the house of Nathan by itself, and their wives by themselves; the family of the house of Levi by itself, and their wives by themselves; the family of the Shimeites by itself, and their wives by themselves; and all the families that are left, each by itself, and their wives by themselves.“On that day there shall be a fountain opened for the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and uncleanness. (Zechariah 12:10-14, 13:1).

The earliest known commentary on the Book of Revelation identifies Jerusalem as the Great Harlot:

Hippolytus - On Christ and Antichrist: By the unrighteous judge, who fears not God, neither regards man, he means without doubt Anti-Christ, as he is a son of the devil and a vessel of Satan. For when he has the power, he will begin to exalt himself against God, neither in truth fearing God, nor regarding the Son of God, who is the Judge of all. And in saying that there was a widow in the city, he refers to Jerusalem itself, which is a widow indeed, forsaken of her perfect, heavenly spouse, God. She calls Him her adversary, and not her Saviour; for she does not understand that which was said by the prophet Jeremiah: “Because they obeyed not the truth, a spirit of error shall speak then to this people and to Jerusalem.” {3}

The great city of Babylon will ultimately be completely obliterated in one day/in one hour and will be found no more. (Revelation 16:18-19; 18:8, 10, 17, 19, 21). Interestingly Ezekiel 40-48 tells us that millennial Jerusalem will bear no resemblance to the current city of Jerusalem regarding its size, location and topography. Jerusalem will sit on a high plateau and will have two rivers flowing from its east and west sides. In respect of size, Jerusalem will be nine times larger than present-day Jerusalem. The physical location of the city will not be in the exact location of the present city. The vast temple will be bigger than the current city of Jerusalem and will be located outside the city. Millennial Jerusalem, renamed the Lord is there, bears no comparison with present-day Jerusalem. (Ezekiel 48:35).

I find the case for eschatological Jerusalem as the Great Harlot very convincing. Like many other believers, I was influenced by Dave Hunt and other teachers who promoted Rome as The woman riding the beast aka the Great Harlot. However, looking at it with fresh eyes, I now wonder why did not realize that eschatological Jerusalem fulfils all the criteria for the Great Harlot. Where I  differ with Chris White is that I do not think that the Antichrist will claim to be the Jewish Messiah. My present view is that the Antichrist will pretend to be a political ally and a powerful friend to the Jewish people up until the midpoint of the 70th week. White's concluding analysis promoting Jerusalem as the location of Armageddon as against Megiddo originated with Michael Heiser who I do not endorse. {4} 

I have expressed my concerns about Richardson's background in previous posts. Richardson was "prophetically endorsed" by false prophet Paul Cain, which is no endorsement at all! During the same meeting, Cain also endorsed and kick-started the ministry of hyper-grace teacher Joseph Prince. Later, Cain transferred his "anointing" to Todd Bentley. {5} Richardson's disastrous associations with Whalid Shobat, TBN, and more recently with Dalton Thomas (Frontier Alliance International), casts further doubt on the validity of his ministry. 

Richardson is a popular speaker and many take him at face value and do not care to delve deeper into some of his questionable assertions. In particular, Richardsons teaching regarding an Islamic Antichrist is deeply flawed. There are those who genuinely seek truth through exhaustive study and sound exegesis, and there are those who peddle their wares and twist the scriptures for their own motives. I would define Richardson as belonging to the latter. (2 Corinthians 2:17).

1. ner.org)MYSTERY BABYLON – Full text | Nowhere To Run with Chris White

2.  Matthew 23:37 Commentaries: "Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were unwilling. (biblehub.com)

3.  CHURCH FATHERS: On Christ and Antichrist (Hippolytus) (newadvent.org)

4. WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: MICHAEL HEISER'S ALLEGED LOCATION OF ARMAGEDDON (bewareofthewolves.blogspot.com)

5.  WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: JOEL RICHARDSON ENDORSES PAUL CAIN # CHARISMANIA! (bewareofthewolves.blogspot.com)

Further Links

Tanner_ETS Paper on Rev 17-18_Mar 20 2017.pdf (paultan
 (conspiracyclothes.com)

(33) Part 1 - Mystery Babylon Study - Jerusalem - Chris White - YouTube

Revelation Commentary : Chapter Seventeen
WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: Joel Richardson (bewareofthewolves.blogspot.com)

JOHN MACARTHUR: THE SIGNS OF AN APOSTLE?

(21) John MacArthur explains Continuationist vs. Cessationist. - YouTube

There are many disturbing factors connected with the ministry of John MacArthur (Grace to You). GTY errors include Calvinism, the false pre-trib rapture, cessationism, a bloodless gospel, and the claim that it is permissible for Christians to take the mark of the beast during the great tribulation. If that is not enough, GTY has been accused of “awful patterns of siding with abusers and endangering victims". {1} In 2021, The Master’s University and Seminary (TMUS), where John MacArthur is chancellor, withdrew its membership from the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA). {2} The irony of MacArthur's millionaire lifestyle and the obscene amounts of money paid to his associates, including Kory Welch, MacArthur's son-in-law, is common knowledge. {3} It is no exaggeration to say that the prosperity and gross hypocrisy of MacArthur and his associates are on a par with the many prosperity hucksters they criticize. {4} False doctrine inevitably leads to bad practice, and GTY appears to be no better than Hillsong or any other abusive church.

The weak you have not strengthened, the sick you have not healed, the injured you have not bound up, the strayed you have not brought back, the lost you have not sought, and with force and harshness you have ruled them. (Ezekiel 34:4).

MacArthur's blatant distortion of the scriptures - Were "the signs of an apostle" limited to the apostles?

The signs of a true apostle were performed among you with utmost patience, with signs and wonders and mighty works. (2 Corinthians 12:12).

The blatant falsehood that the sign gifts (charismata) e.g. prophecy, languages (tongues), healing and miracles were limited to "the signs of an apostle" is a distortion of the scriptures. MacArthur bases this assertion on a single verse of scripture (2 Corinthians 12:12). However he fails to account for various passages demonstrating that charismata were not limited to the apostles. MacArthur's failure to present a balanced argument exposes his utter lack of objectivity and his blatant abuse of the scriptures. (1 John 4:1). 

Whilst signs, wonders and mighty works were indeed confirmation of the apostles' ministries, the sign gifts were also evident amongst various other believers i.e. Stephen and Philip who were deacons, and also Ananias. 

And Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people. (Acts 6:8).

Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ to them. The crowds gave their undivided attention to Philip’s message and to the signs they saw him perform. With loud shrieks, unclean spirits came out of many who were possessed, and many of the paralyzed and lame were healed. So there was great joy in that city. (Acts 8:5-8).  

Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” And the Lord said to him, “Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying, and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.” But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name.” But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.” So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized; and taking food, he was strengthened. (Acts 10-19).

Based on 1 Corinthians 12:3, MacArthur argues that the charismata manifested at Corinth were a throwback to the mystery religions they (presumably) practiced prior to becoming Christians. It is difficult to determine how factual this assumption is, but whether it is true or not, there are no grounds in 1 Corinthians to reject genuine charismata. The undeniable teaching of Paul is that he affirmed genuine charismata:

..earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy. (1 Corinthains 14:1).
Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. (1 Corinthains 14:5).
What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up. If any speak in a tongue, let there be only two or at most three, and each in turn, and let someone interpret. But if there is no one to interpret, let each of them keep silent in church and speak to himself and to God. Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh what is said. If a revelation is made to another sitting there, let the first be silent. For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all be encouraged, and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets. For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. (1 Corinthians 14:26-33).

Paul's teaching includes "varieties of gifts" amongst the congregation at Corinth. (1 Corinthians 12:4-11, 27-31 cf. Romans 12:6-8). These additional passages indicate that the Holy Spirit apportions charismata "to each one as He determines". (1 Corinthians 12:11). Paul wrote to the Thessalonians: 

Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. (1 Thessalonians 5:19-21). The scriptures give no indication that any of the sign gifts have ceased or that anyone has the authority to pick and choose which gifts to accept or reject. 

MacArthur: "You see, everything that was culturally a part of their life, because they were carnal, manifested itself in their church. Do you see? So, if all of that is there, why wouldn’t we assume that the pagan style of religion would also manifest itself in their assembly under their carnality? Of course it would. That is precisely what happened. The world’s religion came right in, infiltrated the life of the church, and they began to do the things within the confines of Christianity, with new definitions and new terms to try to make it look right, that they were doing essentially before they ever knew Christ and calling them gifts of the Holy Spirit." {5}

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills. (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). 

Further evidence affirming charismata is attested in the early Church Fathers e.g. Justin Martyr, Ireneaus, Tertullian, Origen, Novatian and Cyril of Jerusalem. {6}

Two extremes - hyper charismania and cessationism 

Having witnessed various abuses within charismania a number of years ago, I can understand why many believers have become cessationists. However, cessationism is an unbiblical extreme. My contention is that God is still very much at work within true believers. 

The apostles laid hands on the believers in Jerusalem in order that they would receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:14-17 cf. Acts 19:6). The Holy Spirit bestows gifts as He wills. (1 Corinthians 12:11). Various false teachers within the NAR lay their hands on people in order to allegedly transmit an "anointing" or a "mantle", or they practice necromancy in the form of grave sucking, the object being to suck up the alleged anointing of various dead teachers. Biblically, the focus is always upon the Holy Spirit and not on the men supposedly transmitting or receiving spiritual gifts. Just as we should reject cessationism, we should also reject presumptuous self-appointed modern apostles and prophets who go beyond what is written and who teach grievous error. (1 Corinthians 4:6).

The scriptures put various safeguards into place regarding the practice of charismata.

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).

If a prophet or dreamer of dreams arises among you and proclaims a sign or wonder to you, and if the sign or wonder he has spoken to you comes about, but he says, “Let us follow other gods (which you have not known) and let us worship them,” you must not listen to the words of that prophet or dreamer. For the LORD your God is testing you to find out whether you love Him with all your heart and with all your soul. You are to follow the LORD your God and fear Him. Keep His commandments and listen to His voice; serve Him and hold fast to Him. (Deuteronomy 13:1-4).

What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up. If any speak in a tongue, let there be only two or at most three, and each in turn, and let someone interpret. But if there is no one to interpret, let each of them keep silent in church and speak to himself and to God. Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh what is said. If a revelation is made to another sitting there, let the first be silent. For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all be encouraged, and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets. For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. (Corinthians 14:25-33).

In the area of personal guidance, it is my view that the Lord undoubtedly speaks to His children. I have often had what might be called a check in my spirit regarding various false teachings and teachers. The Lord has often reminded me of specific verses of scripture that relate to false teaching. There have been times when I have felt uncomfortable when I was about to pursue a course of action that was not in God's will. I believe that this kind of guidance, although often not spectacular, is the Lord actively guiding his children. The great tribulation is a time when charismata will be critical! Settle it therefore in your minds not to meditate beforehand how to answer, for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict. (Luke 21:14-15).

1. Former Elder at John MacArthur’s Church Confronts Pattern of Endangering Abuse Victims (julieroys.com).
2. Master’s University & Seminary Withdraws from Financial Accountability Group (julieroys.com)
3. Grace To You Awards Lucrative Contract Annually to John Macarthur's Son In Law's Firm - John Macarthur Cult Watch Forum (forumchitchat.com)
4. The Prosperous Lifestyle of America's Anti-Prosperity Gospel Preacher | The Roys Report (julieroys.com)
5. Concerning Spiritual Gifts, Part 1 (gty.org)
6. WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: JOHN MACARTHUR: CONTINUATIONISM VS CESSATIONISM (bewareofthewolves.blogspot.com)

JOHN MACARTHUR: CONTINUATIONISM VS CESSATIONISM

(21) John MacArthur explains Continuationist vs. Cessationist. - YouTube

John MacArthur and many within the Reformed/Calvinist camp describe themselves as cessationists. In the above video, Macarthur's argument against continuationism is based on the false premise that spiritual gifts (charismata) were limited to "the signs of an apostle". (2 Corinthians 12:12). MacArthur argues his case regarding apostolic gifts as if this settles the argument. Unfortunately, MacArthur completely ignores Paul's further teaching regarding "varieties of gifts", including the utterance of knowledge, wisdom, faith, healing, miracles etc. amongst the congregation at Corinth. (1 Corinthians 12:4-11, 27-31 cf. Romans 12:6-8). These further passages indicate that the Holy Spirit apportions charismata "to each one as He determines". (1 Corinthians 12:11). MacArthur also ignores evidence that the early Church Fathers recognized and practiced charismata. I abhor the abuse and perversion of modern charismata as much as the cessationists, but since MacArthur and others do not base their view on sound exegesis, they fail to present a credible argument.

The early Church Fathers and the charismatic gifts {1}

Justin Martyr 100-165AD:  Dialogue with Trypho, chapter 82: “For the prophetical gifts remain with us, even to the present time.” Chapter 87:“..to those who believe in Him, according as He deems each man worthy thereof.” Chapter, 88,: “Now, it is possible to see among us women and men who possess gifts of the Spirit of God.”

Second Apology, chapter 6: “And now you can learn this from your own observation. For numberless demoniacs throughout the whole world, and in your city, many of our Christian men exorcising them in the name of Jesus Christ, who was crucified under Pontius Pilate, have healed and do heal, rendering helpless and driving the possessing devils out of the men, though they could not be cured by all the other exorcists, and those who used incantations and drugs”
Irenaeus (130-202): Irenaeus’ magnum opus Against Heresies:“Those who are in truth Jesus’ disciples, receiving grace from Him, do in His name perform miracles, so as to promote the welfare of other men, according to the gift which each one has received from Him. For some do certainly and truly drive out devils, so that those who have thus been cleansed from evil spirits frequently both believe in Christ, and join themselves to the Church. Others have foreknowledge of things to come: they see visions, and utter prophetic expressions. Others still heal the sick by laying their hands upon them, and they are made whole. Yea, moreover, as I have said, the dead even have been raised up, and remained among us for many years” (2:32:4). The Spirit, then, does miracles, casts out demons, reveals the future, delivers the sick and even raises the dead!

5:6:1: For this reason does the apostle declare, “We speak wisdom among them that are perfect”, terming those who have received the Spirit of God, and who through the Spirit of God do speak in all languages, as he used himself also to speak. In like manner we do hear many brethren in the Church who possess prophetic gifts, and who through the Spirit speak all kinds of languages, and bring to light for the general benefit the hidden things of men, and declare the mysteries of God, whom also the apostle terms “spiritual”, they being spiritual because they partake of the Spirit, and not because their flesh has been stripped off and taken away, and because they have become purely spiritual.”
Tertullian (150-220): On Baptism, 20: “Therefore, my blessed ones, whom the grace of God awaits, when you ascend from the most sacred font of your new birth [baptism], and spread your hands for the first time in the house of your mother [the Church], together with your brethren, ask from the Father, ask from the Lord, that His own specialties of grace and distributions of gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-12) may be supplied you. “Ask,” says He, “and you shall receive.” Well, you have asked, and have received; you have knocked, and it has been opened to you. Only, I pray that, when you are asking, you be mindful likewise of Tertullian the sinner.” 

Tertullian Against Marcion: “Let Marcion then exhibit, as gifts of his god, some prophets, such as have not spoken by human sense, but with the Spirit of God, such as have both predicted things to come, and have made manifest the secrets of the heart (1 Corinthians 14:25); let him produce a psalm, a vision, a prayer (1 Corinthians 14:26)- only let it be by the Spirit, in an ecstasy, that is, in a rapture, whenever an interpretation of tongues has occurred to him; let him show to me also, that any woman of boastful tongue in his community has ever prophesied from among those specially holy sisters of his. Now all these signs (of spiritual gifts) are forthcoming from my side without any difficulty, and they agree too with the rules, and the dispensations, and the instructions of the Creator; therefore without doubt the Christ, and the Spirit, and the apostle belong severally to my God. Here, then, is my frank avowal for anyone who cares to require it.”
Origen 185-254AD:  De Principiis 2:10:7: "When, whether by baptism or by the grace of the Spirit, the word of wisdom or the word of knowledge or of any other gift has been bestowed upon a man, and not rightly administered, i.e. either buried in the earth or tied up in a napkin, the gift of the Spirit will certainly be withdrawn from his soul, and the other portion which remains, that is, the substance of the soul, will be assigned its place with unbelievers, being divided and separated from that Spirit with whom, by joining himself to the Lord, it ought to have been one spirit."

Against Celsus 1:46:“There are still preserved among Christians traces of that Holy Spirit which appeared in the form of a dove. They expel evil spirits, and perform many cures, and foresee certain events, according to the will of the Logos” 
Novatian (200-258): On the Trinity, 29: "This is He who places prophets in the Church, instructs teachers, directs tongues, gives powers and healings, does wonderful works, often discrimination of spirits, affords powers of government, suggests counsels, and orders and arranges whatever other gifts there are of charismata; and thus make the Lord’s Church everywhere, and in all, perfected and completed.” 

Cyril of Jerusalem (313-386): Catechetical Lectures during the fourth century. 17:37:“If you believe, you shall not only receive remission of sins, but also do things which pass man’s power. And may you be worthy of the gift of prophecy also! […] All your life long will your Guardian the Comforter abide with you; He will care for you, as for His own solider; for your goings out, and your comings in, and your plotting foes. And He will give you gifts of grace of every kind, if you grieve Him not by sin […] Be ready to receive grace, and when you have received it, cast it not away.”

17:36: “If you be counted worthy of the grace, your soul will be enlightened, you will receive a power which you had not, you will receive weapons terrible to the evil spirits; and if you cast not away your arms, but keep the Seal upon your soul, no evil spirit will approach you; for he will be cowed; for verily by the Spirit of God are the evil spirits cast out.”

The turning point occurred when Augustine of Hippo took it upon himself to promote the idea that individualized charismata had ceased and were no longer necessary. Augustine's later thoughts on the gifts of the Spirit are set out in Retractationes (427AD) Retractationes was a revision of his early position in De vera religione (390AD). Augustine's later views set the trend for church practice and have been adopted by cessationists today. It is my contention that later tradition does not have the authority to rescind what is written in the scriptures despite the problematic issues arising out of modern charismania. Although Augustine was hugely influential, we should bear in mind that there are a great many problems associated with his theology. (See Further Links) 

Retractationes: "These miracles were not allowed to last until our times.. For not even now, when a hand is laid on the baptized, do they receive the Holy Spirit in such a way that they speak with the tongues of all nations; nor are the sick now healed by the passing shadow of the preachers of Christ. Even though such things happened at that time, manifestly these ceased later. But what I said is not to be so interpreted that no miracles are believed to be performed in the name of Christ at the present time. For, when I wrote that book, I myself had recently learned that a blind man had been restored to sight in Milan near the bodies of the martyrs in that very city, and I knew about some other, so numerous even in these times, that we cannot know about all of them nor enumerate those we know."  (1.12.7)

Charles A Sullivan:  Augustine did not promote the cessation of miracles but better control mechanisms; one of them denying certain individualized gifts. Both him and Chrysostom also believed that an overemphasis on miracles was a gateway to pride. These two represented a fourth-century trend electing to switch the authority from the individual to deceased saints, symbols of the church, personal piety, and the authority vested in the Church. It is not known whether this was a personal agreement between Augustine and Chrysostom or was simply the intellectual spirit of the times." {2} 

Having demolished the theory that the early fathers did not recognize the gifts of the Holy Spirit beyond the first generation of believers, we are left with a conundrum due to the shocking fakery of many false teachers within charismatic/NAR circles. Examples are the Copeland/Howard-Browne tongues fiasco; {3} the fakery of Todd White's cold reading and leg-pulling episodes; {4} Shawn Bolz's cold reading scams; {5} Paula White's "angels in Africa" nonsense; {6} not to mention the numerous failed Trump prophesies. The antics of these wolves are enough to deter anyone from even considering the possibility that genuine charismata exist today, hence the persuasive arguments of MacArthur and other cessationists. Despite this, I am not fully convinced by the cessationist line of reasoning. Just as there are many false teachers, false gospels, false prophets, false Christs etc. it is logical to conclude that there are also false charismata. (Matthew 24:24; 2 Corinthians 11:4). I would therefore describe myself as a cautious continuationist whilst utterly rejecting those within the NAR who claim to hold the office of contemporary foundational "apostles and prophets". Mark and avoid these wolves. (Romans 16:17-18; 1 John 4:1). 

The strategy adopted by Mike Winger's church (Calvary Chapel) is interesting. Although I do not endorse Calvary Chapel in every specific, their approach to the gifts of the Spirit is one way of avoiding a charismatic free for all. 

To paraphrase Mike Winger: There is no emphasis on the gifts in general typical gatherings during service times and people do not interrupt the service. However, we are open/very open to someone having a "word from the Lord" that they might share privately for it to be tested.  (48:00 mark) {7} 

Tongues - known languages or ecstatic utterances?

Ambiguities within various passages describing the gift of tongues in the New Testament lead some to support the theory that there are two different kinds of tongues. The passages in Acts, particularly Acts 2, are straightforward in identifying tongues as known languages (xenoglossia). However, a number of teachers within the charismatic/NAR camp make a distinction between the earthly languages spoken in Acts, and the languages (glōssais) discussed by Paul in 1 Corinthians. Many within this group claim that those practicing tongues today are speaking heavenly or angelic languages (glossolalia).

Speaking in tongues is explicitly mentioned in five places in the New Testament.

Mark 16:17-18 records the prophecy of Jesus Christ to the apostles: "And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

Acts 2:6-11 confirms that the tongues spoken at Pentecost were known languages: And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. And they were amazed and astonished, saying, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language? Parthians and Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians—we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God.”

Acts 10:46-47 describes how the Holy Spirit fell on the household of Cornelius in Caesarea. This event was compared with what happened at Pentecost and appears to follow the earlier precedent of known languages. For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter declared, “Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?”

Acts 19:6 describes a group of approximately twelve men at Ephesus who spoke in tongues and prophesied when the Holy Spirit came upon them. Although the text is nonspecific about the precise nature of these tongues, it seems consistent to take the view that this occurrence also followed the precedent of known languages at Pentecost. And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying.

1 Corinthians 12-14 - These chapters in particular have given rise to the theory that there are two different kinds of tongues.

For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills. (1 Corinthians 12:8-11). 

Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the higher gifts. ( 1 Corinthians 12:27-31).

The above is Paul's general discussion of the offices and gifts. There is no reason to make the assumption that the tongues mentioned above suggest anything other than known languages.

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing. (1 Corinthians 13:1-3).  

Paul is speaking hyperbolically i.e. he talks about possibilities rather than actualities as demonstrated by his following implausible speculations. He also discusses the possibility of understanding all mysteries and all knowledge, all faith, giving away everything that he possesses, and giving up his body to be burned.

Love never ends. 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 will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:8-9). 

MacArthur and other cessationists argue that the above verses are evidence that tongues ceased with the death of the apostles. {8} Continuationists make a good case that "when the perfect comes" is a reference to the eternal state.

Paul discusses the gift of tongues in detail in 1 Corinthians 14. The ambiguity within this chapter has led many within the charismatic camp to believe that there are two kinds of tongues.

For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit. But he who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort. The one who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but the one who prophesies edifies the church. I wish that all of you could speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets so that the church may be edified. Now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching? ..Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air. (1 Corinthians 14:2-6,9).

The conclusion some draw from the above verses is that Paul is referring to heavenly languages. The counterargument is that an unrecognized tongue may just as easily refer to an earthly language. In fact, Paul does refer to earthly languages in this very discussion. (1 Corinthians 14:10-11). It seems that because tongues were distinctive and showy, the Corinthians were flaunting this gift amongst each other. Paul's concern is edification. (1 Corinthians 14:12). The person who speaks in a tongue (glōssē) without an interpretation cannot edify others, whereas the one who prophesies edifies the church. Paul concludes his discussion by clarifying that the purpose of tongues is a sign, not for believers, but for unbelievers. (1 Corinthians 14:22). This seems to reiterate the Acts 2 precedent of tongues as known languages and a sign for unbelievers. If tongues are a sign for unbelievers, how will they benefit from an unknown tongue unless there is an interpreter? (1 Corinthians 14:23,27). In my view, the gibberish we observe today in many charismatic/NAR churches are not the tongues described in the scriptures. 

There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures. (2 Peter 3:16).

Evidence from church history that glōssais were known languages

False teacher Charles Fox Parham (1873-1929) originally believed tongues to be a known language given by the Holy Spirit for evangelistic/missionary purposes. The phenomenum began when Agnes Ozman, one of Parham's students, allegedly began writing and speaking in the Chinese language and was unable to speak English for three days. Soon afterwards, Parham and 34 other students also began speaking in unknown languages. However, when put to the test on the mission field, Parham's missionaries' repeated attempts at xenoglossia failed, and it turned out that Ozman's "Chinese" was not Chinese at all. Afterwards "many of Parham's followers became disillusioned and left the movement." {9} Parham subsequently redefined tongues as glossolalia and formulated the doctrine of "initial evidence" of the baptism with the Holy Spirit. 

American evangelist FF Bosworth, one of the founders of the Assemblies of God, held Parham solely responsible for theologically separating speaking in tongues into two separate definitions. {10}

FF Bosworth: "Charles Parham who came forward with this doctrine in the year 1900, is the first man in the history of the world to teach it. He saw that it was not possible to teach that speaking in tongues will in every case accompany the Baptism in the Spirit, unless he could make it appear that speaking in tongues on the day of Pentecost was something separate and distict from the gift of tongues at Corinth. He is also the first man in the history of the world to teach that none have ever been baptized in the Spirit unless they have spoken in tongues". {11} 

Mike's comment from a previous post of mine summarizes the history of glossolalia: "Ecstatic, unintelligible speech is well known in pagan religions inc Wicca and Voodoo and manifested well before Parham and Seymour in the cults of Montanus, the so-called French prophets, the Shakers, the Irvingites and the Mormons (who labelled it the 'Adamic language') . Reputable ministers went to Azusa st and called it 'the last vomit of Satan' as the behaviour was close to that displayed at Toronto, Lakeland etc." 

This critical information should make every charismatic tongue-speaker question the teaching they have received promoting glossolalia. 

Writing in tongues is never mentioned in the New Testament!

1. CHURCH FATHERS: Home (newadvent.org)
2. Augustine on the Tongues of Pentecost (charlesasullivan.com)
3. (20) Tongue fight! - YouTube..
4. (20) Todd White’s Newest Leg Lengthening Video 2022 - YouTube
5. (20) Social Media Prophet? Shawn Bolz | Don't Be Duped - YouTube
6. (20) When the Angels in Africa heard Paula White praying - YouTube
7. (15) Does This Verse Teach Cessationism? And a Bit On Bethel. 1 Cor 13:10-12 - YouTube
8. (23) MIRACLES, HEALINGS AND TONGUES(selected scriptures) By John MacArthur. - YouTube
9. Charles Fox Parham - Wikipedia
10. Charles Parham on Speaking in Tongues (charlesasullivan.com)
11. (PDF) Bosworth Blamed Charles Parham: He Criticized Him for His 'Wrong and Unscriptural" Teachings on Speaking in Tongues (researchgate.net)

Further Links

SINS OF AUGUSTINE (gospeltruth.net)

(24) Have The Spiritual Gifts Ceased? Part 1 | Were The Miraculous Gifts Only For The Apostles? - YouTube

Early Pentecostal Embarrassments, Part 1 | by Andreas Wiget | Medium
https://medium.com/@andreaswiget/interview-with-michael-a-former-word-of-faith-pastor-and-rhema-grad-534edf2a17f5
Alfred Garr’s Failed Missionary Tongues | by Andreas Wiget | Jan, 2023 | Medium

A Word Study of “Tongue” (Glossa) | by Andreas Wiget | Medium

ASBURY: AN ORCHESTRATED REVIVAL?

The Asbury "revival" began on February 8th and continues to the present time, although I understand that there will be some restrictions put in place from February 22nd. Whether it is biblical to put restrictions on a revival is an interesting question. The "revival" has been well aired on GodTV, CBN and also on Fox News. As far as I am aware from various reports and from personal observation, this revival has consisted mainly of singing repetitive Bethel/Hillsong-style songs and personal testimony. There has been no preaching of the gospel, a hallmark of genuine revival. It has been confirmed that the worship team has been led by self-identifying LGBTQ students. {1} In line with the college statement on human sexuality, this particular element within Asbury claim to be celibate while affirming the biblical teaching that sex is between a man and a woman within the context of heterosexual marriage. {2} As Caleb Corneloup explains below, the problem with identifying as an "LGBTQ Christian" is paradoxical from a biblical perspective. (1 Thessalonians 5:22).

Caleb Corneloup (iThinkBiblically): "There are many people touting the so called Asbury Revival as being a genuine move of God. But the truth is, this so called revival is not a move of God at all. Its a disgrace. From the very beginning the worship has been led by homosexuals. Gays and Queers have been leading this so called Asbury Revival. Now, as Christians we must love homosexuals and we must treat them equally and with compassion. However, the bible is very clear that homosexuals will not enter the kingdom of heaven. There is no such thing as a gay Christian or a queer Christian. A true Christian renounces his sin, and is ashamed of his or her sin."

 

Two Christian men were ejected from the "revival", one wearing a T-shirt saying "Homo Sex is Sin - Romans 1". {3} I am not entirely sure that the motivation of these two men was unassuming observation, but perhaps their ejection is worth noting. 

I have identified the following red flags at Asbury University which should send a cautionary message about accepting the current so-called "revival" as genuine. (1 John 4:1). Many Christians have learned critical lessons from the blatant false teaching and excesses that came out of Toronto, Lakeland, Pensacola etc. It should be expected that Satan will attempt to disrupt a genuine revival. (Nehemiah 6:2; 2 Corinthians 11:14). As such, endorsements from various NAR wolves who apparently seek to co-opt the "revival" is unsurprising. What is surprising, if Asbury is a genuine revival, is their tolerance of various heretical teachers, not least the attendance of proven false prophet and adulterer Todd Bentley. Biblically we should mark and avoid Bentley and his cohorts like the plague! (Romans 16:17).  What fellowship has light with darkness? 2 Corinthians 6:14; cf 1 Corinthians 5:9; Ephesians 5:7). Todd Bentley, Shawn Bolz and other wolves are referring to Asbury as the possible beginning of the fulfillment of the “Bob Jones Superbowl prophecy”. It seems that NAR leaders are determined to have their "billion soul harvest" one way or another! {4} 

An Orchestrated revival? 

Approximately two months prior to the "revival", ecumenical false teacher Francis Can posted the following video: 

(12) Collegiate Day of Prayer 2023: "Will You Pray?" (Francis Chan) - YouTube

4,043 views Premiered on 28 Nov 2022
"Adopt a college campus in prayer today at http://collegiatedayofprayer.org. Join us on Feb 23, 2023 for 200-year anniversary of when every denomination and every university adopted the last Thursday of February as a day of prayer for revival and spiritual awakening on college campuses in America."

(12) Collegiate Day of Prayer 2023 – LIVE from Asbury University — Feb 23rd @ 8-10p ET - YouTube

Let's ADOPT and saturate EVERY CAMPUS in America in prayer (go to http://collegiatedayofprayer.org to adopt a campus) and join us LIVE from Asbury University on Feb 23rd at 8-10pm ET with special guests Rick Warren, Francis Chan, Allen Hood and worship leaders from International House of Prayer, Circuit Riders + Black Voices Movement, and Met By Love Worship. Let’s believe God for REVIVAL amongst believers on college campuses and SPIRITUAL AWAKENING amongst the lost. Father, revive the saved and save the lost!!

The Asbury "revival" has the endorsement of the Roman Catholic Church.

Universe Weekly: Asbury revival sets Catholics on fire with Holy Spirit.

"It’s almost like a wellspring,” said Father Norman Fischer, pastor of St. Peter Claver Church in Lexington, Kentucky, and chaplain at Lexington Catholic High School. “You just know right away that God is there.” {5}

Alleged exorcism? 

The (Christian?) woman who was allegedly delivered from a demon poses the controversial question of whether true believers of Jesus Christ can be demon possessed. In my view, believers cannot be demon possessed. Whilst I subscribe to the belief that believers can be oppressed by demons, there is no instance in the New Testament of believers being demon-possessed. If this was a genuine "deliverance", then why was it necessary to send for medical assistance? {6} 

When Jesus delivered those possessed by demons they emerged completely sane.  

And they came to Jesus and saw the demon-possessed man, the one who had had the legion, sitting there, clothed and in his right mind, and they were afraid. (Mark 5:15 cf. Matthew 17:18; Mark 9:26-27; Luke 11:14).

 

Asbury is an ecumenical liberal Methodist seminary

Loving God, Loving Self: Faith & Culture 2013

Speaker Father Normal Fischer

"Topics ranged from identifying the not-so-obvious signs of racism to ministering to other faiths in a pluralistic society.

'We need to focus less on our similarities and focus on our differences and work through them,” Barringer said. “Even Catholic/Protestant — you’re working in your framework, and I’m working in my framework, but how do we work together and give witness to the fact that Jesus rose from the dead? I would hate to be ‘color blind’ and not see the beauty of our differences, but I would also hate to live in a world where we can’t approach those differences in a productive way, especially for those of us who claim the name of Christ..

'Junior Elijah Friedeman appreciated the emphasis on religious diversity in this year’s “Faith and Culture” series. 'I enjoyed having a Catholic priest come and speak, because it emphasized the point that not only is ethnic diversity important, but also religious diversity' he said. 'Although Catholics are Christians too, it was neat to have that experience hearing from a theological tradition that’s far different from what most of have experienced.'" {7}

Egalitarianism

Kate Nunneley speaks on the egalitarian and complementarian views of women in the Church. {8)

Entire Sanctification

"Asbury University, with its roots in the American Methodist and holiness tradition, has followed Wesley’s teaching on entire sanctification. Believers may and should seek a subsequent work of God where through grace imparted by the Spirit, they are made full of the love of God." {9} 

We believe:

"That entire sanctification is that act of divine grace, through the baptism with the Holy Spirit, by which the heart is cleansed from all sin and filled with the pure love of God. This is a definite, cleansing work of grace in the heart of a believer, subsequent to conversion, resulting from full consecration and faith in the cleansing merit of the blood of Jesus Christ." {10}

Wesley's definition of "entire sanctification" was, and still is, widely criticized. {11} 

There are enough red flags at Asbury to be very cautious about this so-called "revival". It seems unlikely that this was a spontaneous revival arising from a simple student prayer meeting. I do not doubt that there are genuine Christians in attendance and my prayer is for their protection and for spiritual discernment. 

But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction. (2 Peter 2:1).

1. The Asbury Revival Narrative Is Crumbling – Evangelical Dark Web

2. 2019_04_10-AU-Human-Sexuality-Statement.pdf (asbury.edu)
3. (12) Christians Kicked Out of Asbury Revival for T Shirt? You Won't Hear This on the News - YouTube
4. Bob Jones’ Revival Prophecy Headlines Super Bowl Win - Charisma Magazine
5. 'Jesus was right next to me': Asbury revival sets Catholics on fire with Holy Spirit - Universe Catholic Weekly
6. (12) Casting Devils out at Asbury University!!! - YouTube
7. Faith and Loving My Neighbor – Asbury University
8. Friday, November 3, 2017 — Kate Nunneley — “A Woman’s Place in the Church”
9. Wesleyan-Holiness Theology – Asbury University
10. Spiritual Vitality – Asbury University
11. A PLAIN ACCOUNT OF CHRISTIAN PERFECTION text by John Wesley (whatsaiththescripture.com)

Further Links

Letter to the Editor Raises Concerns About Possible Pre-Planned Exploits - Lighthouse Trails Research Project

(14) Daniel Adams Using Asbury to Promote His False Ministry - YouTube
Francis Chan, Rick Warren Do Not Attend National Collegiate Day of Prayer at Asbury To Keep It Free of Celebrities (churchleaders.com)

STEVE KOZAR + DANIEL LONG: ILLEGITIMATE BAPTISM

 (7) My Response to Sean Christie of Revealing Truth on the Topic of Baptism - YouTube 

Daniel Long and Steve Kozar's exposés of the Azusa Street "revival", John G Lake, Charles Parham, William Branham etc. are well-researched and accurate. Ironically, it is very remiss of these men not to have dug up the dirt on their own cult leader Martin Luther, and there is plenty of dirt to be had! Arguably Martin Luther's wickedness exceeds that of all the false teachers Kozar and Long have exposed!

Daniel Long on the validity of infant baptism

Long: "If you are going to say that somebody who was baptized in the Catholic Church did not have a valid baptism, then you have to say that Martin Luther didn't have a valid baptism, Calvin, any/all of the reformers, and the early church fathers were all baptized as infants. Are you saying that their baptism was an illegitimate baptism and that they all should have been rebaptised?"  YES, that it precisely what I am saying.. although I do not acknowledge the claim that Luther and Calvin were true believers. (Matthew 7:16).

The argument that believers do not need to undergo believers baptism if they have undergone infant baptism is extremely weak and is not validated by the scriptures. Luther went to extreme lengths to validate the doctrine of infant baptism. However, his arguments depend upon tradition and his appeals to the scriptures regarding the faith of infants are dubious: “Since our baptizing has been thus from the beginning of Christianity and the custom has been to baptize children, and since no one can prove with good reasons that they do not have faith, we should not make changes and build on such weak arguments.” {1} 

Thousands of believers have been denied valid baptism as a result of this demonic teaching. (1 Timothy 4:1). Baptism is the very first commandment required of those who have repented and believed the gospel. To prohibit baptism to genuine converts is a very weighty matter indeed! These teachers will have to give an account to the Lord for this wicked teaching when the time comes. (Hebrews 4:13).   

And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:38).

Luther - A drunkard and glutton

The widespread belief that Luther lived in poverty is easily debunked. Luther was massively obese and weighed a hefty 150kg (23st 8lb) at his death in 1546 at the age of 63. {2} 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: "What other cause do you think that I have for drinking so much strong drink, talking so freely and making merry so often, except that I wish to mock and harass the devil who is wont to mock and harass me." {3} 

"By his own admission, Luther put on a few extra pounds in his later years. During a business trip (of sorts) to Eisleben (his place of birth) several days before his death, he joked to friends that he would shortly return to Wittenberg and "give the worms a fat doctor to feast on." In actual fact he never made it back to Wittenberg. He passed away in Eisleben early in the morning on 18 February 1546." {4} 

Luther - As He Was

(Death Mask by Lucas Fortnagel - Leipzig, University Library)

Luther and the scriptures!

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". {5} 

Luther and the Peasants Revolt   

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." {6} 

Quotes from Luther:

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's condemnation of the Anabaptists

The most distinctive belief of the Anabaptists was believer's baptism. The Anabaptists repudiated infant baptism as a blasphemous formality. They maintained that infants and young children are not accountable for sin until they become aware of good and evil and can exercise their own free will, repent, and accept baptism. The Anabaptists were mercilessly persecuted by the Reformers and most of the early Anabaptist leaders died in prison or were executed. Protestants were especially fond of “baptizing” Anabaptist heretics by drowning them in rivers.

Ken Rathbun: "Writing against the Anabaptists regarding the matter of faith and baptism, Luther strenuously denied that faith needed to be present in order to baptize. He even turned the argument around and stated that the 'rebaptizers' could never know for sure if anyone really had faith. Luther left open the question of whether infants could have faith in some mysterious way: 'There are Scripture passages that tell us that children may and can believe, though they do not speak or understand. . . . I grant that we do not understand how they do believe, or how faith is created. But that is not the point here.' {7}

"August 7th, 1536, a synod was convened at Hamburg to devise the best means of exterminating the Anabaptists. Not one voice among all the delegates was raised in favor of the Anabaptists. Even Melancthon voted to put all those to death who should remain, obstinate in their errors. The ministers of Ulm demanded that heresy should be extinguished by fire and sword. Those of Augsburg said: “If we have not yet sent any Anabaptists to the gibbet, we have at least branded their cheeks with red iron!? {8} 

Luther and the Jews

Luther's hate-filled vitriol against the Jews is legendary. He wrote at least five treatises on the subject of the Jews, including The Jews and Their Lies in 1543. 

Luther's seven recommendations to church and state authorities for actions concerning the Jews: 

Their synagogues and schools should be burned to the ground, their houses should be “razed and destroyed”; their “prayer books and Talmudic writings” should be confiscated; their rabbis should be “forbidden to teach henceforth on pain of loss of life and limb”; they should be denied safe-conduct on the highways; usury should be prohibited to them and their gold, silver, and cash should be taken from them; finally, they should be subjected to harsh labor.

Luther can also take responsibility for influencing Hitler and the Holocaust.

For Daniel Long to read aloud swathes of Luther's large catechism is scandalous. Luther was a gluttonous monster whose understanding of the scriptures was deeply flawed. We should mark and avoid those who promote the aberrant teachings of this imposter. (Romans 16:17).

The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil. (1 Timothy 3:1-7).

Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. (Galatians 5:19-21 cf. Proverbs 23:20).

 

1. The Reformers' Defense of Infant Baptism - Faith Baptist Bible College
2. Researchers dig up the dirt on father of Protestantism | Religion | The Guardian
3. To Spite the Devil | Lapham’s Quarterly (laphamsquarterly.org)
4. Martin Luther: Fat Reformer? - Reformation 21
5. Luther's canon - Wikipedia
6. Against the Murderous, Thieving Hordes of Peasants - Wikipedia
7. The Reformers' Defense of Infant Baptism - Faith Baptist Bible College
8. The reformers and their uncivilized behavior against the anabaptists | Bjorkbloggen