ANDY WOODS FLOGGING A DEAD HORSE: APOSTASIA 2 THESSALONIANS 2:3

RAPTURE or NOT? That is the question!

There is no evidence to support the claim that ἀποστασία in 2 Thessalonians 2:3 is a physical departure i.e. the rapture. A wide range of experts and even some pretrib teachers disagree with this interpretation. Woods has no further evidence to add to this overcooked argument, so why does he rake it up again?   

Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we ask you, brothers, not to be quickly shaken in mind or alarmed, either by a spirit or a spoken word, or a letter seeming to be from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion (apostasia) comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself against 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 2:1-4). 

Blue Letter Bible: "ἀποστασία apostasía, ap-os-tas-ee'-ah; feminine of the same as G647; defection from truth (properly, the state) ('apostasy'):—falling away, forsake."1 

Liddel and Scott: "ἀποστασία late form of ἀπόστασις defection."2  

During Alan Kurschner's debate with Thomas Ice in 2015, Kurschner attempted to settle this false claim once and for all. It was like pulling teeth, but eventually, Ice admitted that he could not provide any evidence to support this interpretation.  

Kurschner: "I just want to reaffirm here. You’re just mention that apostasia can refer to a physical departure, but you’re not able to produce a single instance in all of Koine Greek literature that apostasia ever means a physical departure. Is that correct?"

Ice: "I’m not able but Wayne House was."

Kurschner: "Okay. But you’re not able to give us what Wayne House…"

Ice: "I can’t give it to you here."  (Debate Transcript p. 57-58).3 

The "Wayne House" document provides no definitive evidence that ἀποστασία refers to a physical departure as in the rapture.4 Some early translations interpreted ἀποστασία as "departure", but in context, this refers to a departure from the faith. As Kurschner points out, the noun ἀποστασία in Koine Greek never refers to physical departure, it always refers to political or religious defection. 

2 Thessalonians 2:1-4 is a classic prewrath passage. Paul explains to the Thessalonians that "the day of the Lord" i.e. the Lord's wrath will not come unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed. (2 Thessalonians 2:3 cf. Matthew 24:10). There are thirty parallels between Jesus' teaching in the Olivet Discourse and Paul’s teaching in Thessalonians.5

The day of the Lord's wrath (orgé) is specifically tied to the trumpet and bowl judgements which do not occur until after the great tribulation. (Matthew 24:29 cf. Revelation 6:17; Revelation 8-9,15-16; Isaiah 13:9; Zephaniah 1:14-15 2 Peter 3:10). 

Andy Woods is highly regarded and well-buttressed by the pretrib camp. However, he is not beyond the reach of the Lord! Woods and other pretrib teachers should consider the devastating effects of this doctrine on the final generation of believers. It is likely that many pretrib believers will "fall away" due to failed expectations of deliverance from the great tribulation. (Matthew 24:10). Tragically, Olivier Melnick has come out of Judaism only to fall for the false pretrib rapture. How will Woods, Melnick, and others answer to the Lord on the day of judgement for leading many believers into apostasy? I fear for all those deceived by this false doctrine and I also fear for pretrib teachers themselves. But I tell you that men will give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned. (Matthew 12:36-37 cf. Romans 14:12).

The failing reputation of the pretrib camp 

Examples: 

* Lee Brainard's recent denial of imminence and his defective research into the early Church Fathers.6 

* Failed marriage counselor and spiritual abuser Jimmy Evans of Daystar infamy is "transitioning" out of XO Marriage and intends to devote himself to endtimes.com full-time. I have reported on the murky world of Jimmy Evans in previous posts. Evans' uptake of the name Endtimes Ministries is a usurpation of a completely different ministry called Endtime Ministries. Evans' subsequent unethical takeover of Endtime Ministries slot on Daystar is unsurprising given his previous ungodly behaviour.
* Mark Hitchcock is closely associated with Jimmy Evans and has recently endorsed him as an "expert".7

* Mark Hitchcock's recent claim that he has discovered "new evidence" of the pretrib rapture in Irenaeus is a regurgitation of old false claims.7

* Hitchcock and Evans recently promoted their new book together.8

* Prophecy Watchers give a platform to false teachers such as Jonathan Cahn who claims to be "prophetic", "Reverend" Donna Howell, Nephilim "expert" LA Marzulli, "prophecy expert" and speculator Bill Salus, and of course, disgraced spiritual abuser Jimmy Evans. 9 

* Prophecy Watchers are closely associated with Daystar.9 

* Jack Hibbs' shocking endorsement of NAR "apostolic leader" Che Ahn and his continued support of Daystar.9 

* Date setter JD Farag predicted that the rapture would occur before the 25th of September 2023.10 

* Don Stewart continues to churn out prophecy updates despite his adulterous marriage.11

* Andy Woods credibility issues! Alan Kurschner's strong rebuttal against Andy Woods' "lies" and "evasion of significant arguments" in 2018.12  

Critically the pretrib rapture fails the test of the scriptures and is based on the teachings of cult leader John Nelson Darby and defective "Left Behind" theology. (1 John 4:1). 

1. G646 - apostasia - Strong's Greek Lexicon (kjv)
2. Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, An Intermediate Greek-English Lexicon, ἀποστασία
3. Microsoft Word - Rapture Debate_Alan Kurschner, Thomas Ice Transcript 1.1.docx
4. The “Departure” (Rapture) Seen In 2 Thessalonians 2:3 | Art Licursi
5. 9 Reasons Why the Rapture and Resurrection Occur AFTER the Great Tribulation (Rapture Talks) | ESCHATOS MINISTRIES
6. Pretribulation Lee Brainard REDEFINES Imminence to Mean Signs Must Happen Before the Rapture
    Replying to Audio Clips from Lee Brainard’s “Imminence Under Attack”
    WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: Lee Brainard
7. WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: PRETRIB RAPTURE: MARK HITCHCOCK'S FAKE DISCOVERY AND ENDORSEMENT OF JIMMY EVANS!
8. Pre-Trib Proof! | Tipping Point with Jimmy Evans
9. WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: MICHAEL GRANT'S QUESTION: WHY ARE "GOOD" TEACHERS STAYING AT DAYSTAR?
10. WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: CRAZED CULT LEADER JD FARAG PREDICTS THE RAPTURE BEFORE 25TH SEPTEMBER 2023
11. Scattered Sheep: January 20, 2012 Show: My Perspective on Don Stewart

12. What Andy Woods Is Not Telling You about 'the Apostasy' in 2 Thess 2:3 - Ep. 121 | ESCHATOS MINISTRIES

PRETRIB RAPTURE: MARK HITCHCOCK'S FAKE DISCOVERY AND ENDORSEMENT OF JIMMY EVANS!

Ancient Evidence for a Pre-Trib Rapture | Marking the End Times

Mark Hitchcock: "Today, I unveil compelling historical evidence that challenges one of the most common objections to the pre-Tribulation Rapture—that it was never taught before 1830. Through examining newly discovered writings from Irenaeus, a second-century church father who learned from those who knew the apostles, we find clear support for a pre-Tribulation Rapture view. Along with subscriber-exclusive answers to crucial questions about salvation, judgment, and end-times prophecy, this teaching provides both historical and biblical evidence for Christ's imminent return. In this episode's Q&A session, I answer questions about core theological issues such as clarifying salvation by grace versus the Judgment Seat of Christ, exploring Isaiah 17's prophecy regarding Damascus and Syria, understanding where raptured Christians will dwell, and whether any unbelievers will survive the Great Tribulation."

According to Hitchcock the first pretrib source before Darby was discovered in the 1990s. He is referring to Pseudo-Ephraem which has been debunked as a pretib document many times. Pseudo-Ephraem teaches that Christians will escape the tribulation through death not rapture. I have added a link below in which researcher and writer Dave MacPherson debunks this false claim.

 

Mark Hitchcock's muddled quotation from Irenaeus 

Irenaeus (c.120–c.202)

And they [the ten kings who shall arise] shall lay Babylon waste, and burn her with fire, and shall give their kingdom to the beast, and put the Church to flight. (Against Heresies, V, 26, 1) And therefore, when in the end the Church shall be suddenly caught up from this, it is said, “There shall be tribulation such as has not been since the beginning, neither shall be.” For this is the last contest of the righteous, in which, when they overcome they are crowned with incorruption. (Against Heresies, V, 29, 1) It is therefore more certain, and less hazardous, to await the fulfillment of the prophecy [Antichrist], than to be making surmises, and casting about for any names that may present themselves, inasmuch as many names can be found possessing the number mentioned; and the same question will, after all, remain unsolved. . . . But he indicates the number of the name now, that when this man [Antichrist] comes we may avoid him, being aware who he is. (Against Heresies, V, 30, 3, 4) For all these and other words were unquestionably spoken in reference to the resurrection of the just, which takes place after the coming of Antichrist . . . . [A]nd [with respect to] those whom the Lord shall find in the flesh, awaiting Him from heaven, and who have suffered tribulation, as well as escaped the hands of the Wicked one. (Against Heresies, V, 35, 1)1 

This document is a proof text for the prewrath rapture. Hitchcock reads a small section of Irenaeus out of context. He then goes on to admit: "..in another place Irenaeus goes on to indicate that the church will be on earth during the tribulation so there seems to be a contradiction."  Evidence that the pretib doctrine began in the 18th century with cult leader John Nelson Darby remains despite ongoing fruitless efforts of the pretrib camp to deny it.

Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered (episunagōgēs) together to him, we ask you, brothers, not to be quickly shaken in mind or alarmed, either by a spirit or a spoken word, or a letter seeming to be from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself against 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 2:1-4).

* episunagōgēs = gathering together: in context, the rapture at the Lord's coming.

Jimmy Evans is disqualified!

Mark Hitchcock's endorsement of Jimmy Evans as an "expert" is beyond comprehension! I thought that endorsing Jimmy Evans would be below even the pretrib camp but apparently not! 

Having been publicly exposed and disgraced as an abuser and a false marriage counselor, Jimmy Evans is "transitioning" out of XO Marriage and intends to devote himself to endtimes.com. full time. God help his viewers! 

The Roys Report: "Daystar cancels prophecy program as Evans launches his..
The Roys Report (TRR) has also learned that Daystar abruptly canceled a long-running prophecy program on its network in July 2022. Days after the cancelation, Evans ran five, on-demand specials on Daystar titled almost identically to the canceled ministry.
On a recording of a May 2023 meeting between Evans, Joni, Doug, Jonathan, and Suzy, Joni states that she began talking to Evans about her relationship with Doug Weiss when these scheduling changes were taking place—July 2022.
The ministry whose show Daystar canceled was called Endtime Ministries, and the ministry website is endtime.com. Endtime Ministries was founded in 1986 by Irvin Baxter and had run a program on Daystar since 2009, called “End of the Age.”
The specials Evans ran on Daystar’s app and YouTube channel were entitled 'End Times' and the website for Evans’ new prophecy ministry is endtimes.com.
Endtime Ministries CEO Vince Stegall told TRR that the abrupt cancelation of his show and launching of Evans’ show was deeply disappointing and puzzling to his ministry. He said it also was confusing to viewers.
'We were getting calls, shortly after we were off, from the television audience,' Stegall said. 'And they wanted to know what happened to our host and why there’s this new guy named Jimmy on there . . .
'We still get emails and calls trying to figure out why our website is so different. It’s pretty confusing when you just add an ‘s.’
According to Endtime CEO Vince Stegall, Daystar claimed it cancelled 'End of the Age' because of a drop in viewership, following the death of founder Irvin Baxter. But Stegall said his buyer, who negotiated Endtime’s contract with Daystar, said that wasn’t true.Vince Stegall (Photo: Facebook)
'Our buyer has access to the software for TV ratings and he provided a lengthy explanation including (r)ating showing End of the Age is in the top 15 shows on Daystar every week,' Stegall wrote in a 2022 newsletter to supporters. '(A)nd our DVR numbers are generally 20-23% whereas the average for the rest of Daystar is 10%.
'In short, our buyer said, ‘This is clearly not a viewership issue and I can provide anything you need to make that argument.’ So there is obviously more to this than they are sharing.'
Jonathan Lamb told TRR that Daystar canceling a show mid-year is 'unheard of,' unless there’s a scandal or the ministry can’t pay the network fees.
However, Stegall said Endtime Ministries had no scandal and was current on its payments.."2

It appears that Joni Lamb and Jimmy Evans hoped that their unethical move against Endtime Ministries would fly under the radar. (Numbers 32:23). However, some viewers questioned the puzzling change of presenter, not realizing that Endtime Ministries and Endtimes Ministries are two different ministries entirely! This devious name change and the usurpation of Endtime Ministries' time slot on Daystar is unworthy of a reputable man of God. As contemptible as this is, it gets even worse! Evans has introduced a critical shift in doctrine during this timeslot. Endtime Ministries taught what is referred to as the posttrib rapture view.1 Although the posttrib rapture view has some problems, it does not hold out false hope to believers of escaping the great tribulation. Evans' underhand switch from the posttrib view taught by Endtime Ministries to pretrib no doubt appeals to "itching ears". (2 Timothy 4:3). As many have observed, the false NAR Word-Faith prosperity teachers incessantly aired on Daystar are adept at giving false hope to believers. Within the biblical context, false hope refers to misplaced trust or confidence in things, people, or circumstances that ultimately cannot deliver what they promise. The Bible warns against placing hope in anything other than God, as such hope is deceptive and leads to disappointment and spiritual peril. (Jeremiah 23:16). The danger of pretrib teaching is the possibility that many will fall away during the great tribulation due to what they will regard as the "failed" prophecy of Jesus' return before the 70th week of Daniel. (Matthew 24:10-15 cf. Daniel 9:27).

Jimmy Evans is much more than a spiritual abuser to Jonathan and Suzy Lamb with his claim that "Joni is the voice of God"; he is much more than a dishonorable man who has no qualms about cutting in on another ministry and pulling a fast one for his own advantage; he is much more than a dangerous false teacher who has led believers into adulterous marriages; Jimmy Evans is a full-blown wolf who is so corrupt that he has no qualms about endangering the faith of his hearers! Evans fruit testifies against him! Mark and avoid this man. (Romans 16:17-18).

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

These are hidden reefs at your love feasts, as they feast with you without fear, shepherds feeding themselves; waterless clouds, swept along by winds; fruitless trees in late autumn, twice dead, uprooted; wild waves of the sea, casting up the foam of their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever. (1Jude:12-13).

1. Microsoft Word - Prewrath - Early Church Fathers.docx
2. Jimmy Evans Announces He’s Leaving XO Marriage, After Daystar Backlash

WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: PSEUDO-EPHRAEM TAUGHT PRETRIB - NOT! BY DAVE MACPHERSON

MICHAEL GRANT'S QUESTION: WHY ARE "GOOD" TEACHERS STAYING AT DAYSTAR?

Joyce Meyer Is Leaving Daystar / Why Is Jack Hibbs & Others Like Ray Comfort, D. Jeremiah Staying?

Michael Grant: "According to Protestia Joyce Meyer and other false teachers like Jesse Duplantis have already left Daystar yet men like Hibbs, Ray Comfort, David Jeremiah, Michael Youseff and others are staying? Why? Watch as I explain why Joyce is leaving and what it might take for others to leave so that Daystar Television Network implodes once and for all."

Birds of a feather flock together! 

Michael Grant is the pastor of Moore's Corner Church which is an independent Non-Denominational Church in Leverett MA.1 Michael Grant asks a very pertinent question, but it comes with the assumption that teachers like Jack Hibbs, Ray Comfort, David Jeremiah, and Michael Youseff are "good" teachers. I will attempt to answer his question in this post. It is my contention that no self-respecting bible teacher should air their programmes on TBN and Daystar. If you dig below the surface, many apparently credible ministries have red flags. The rare exceptions on Daystar with sound doctrine show no wisdom by associating with apostates. (1 Corinthians 15:33). I know very little about Michael Youseff and I will not discuss him in this post. However, there are tangible red flags concerning David Jeremiah, Jack Hibbs, and Prophecy Watchers.

Jack Hibbs shocking endorsement of NAR "apostolic leader" Che Ahn: "Pastor Che Ahn-Invited by Pastor Jack Hibbs and Spoke at Calvary Chapel Chino Hills—"2  Hibbs has no problem appearing on Table Talk with Joni Lamb! At best Hibbs is very short-sighted and unwise. At worst, and this is my suspicion, Hibbs is closet NAR. 

David Jeremiah: On March 12th, 2015 David Jeremiah interviewed Roman Catholic New Age heretics Roman Downey and Mark Burnett on stage at Shadow Mountain Community Church.3 

David Jeremiah helped to draft and was a signatory of the ecumenical document: Evangelicals and Catholics Together in 1994.4

For more information about David Jeremiah's various compromises see the following links:  

DAVID JEREMIAH EXPOSED- MYSTICISM FREEMASON CATHOLIC

Birds of a feather? David Jeremiah plans to team up with Osteen and Meyer - Berean Research

David Jeremiah Helps False Prophet / Criminal Jim Bakker (Compromise Exposed)
When Your “Favorite” Christian Leader Is In Serious Error, How Do You Respond? | Former Nazarene

Prophecy Watchers: There are probably financial reasons and contractual obligations that preclude an easy exit from Daystar for some ministries. It appears that Prophecy Watchers hosts Mondo Gonzalez and Gary Stearman have a more complex relationship with TBN and Daystar than other ministries, although they are not giving much away. Prophecy Watchers are tainted in their own right and give a platform to false teachers such as Jonathan Cahn who claims to be "prophetic", "Reverend" Donna Howell, Nephilim "expert" LA Marzulli, "prophecy expert" and speculator Bill Salus, and recently disgraced spiritual abuser Jimmy Evans who has given up marriage counseling in order to teach eschatology. Like many false ministries, Prophecy Watchers constantly peddle their merchandise. (2 Corinthians 2:17). Berean Research observed in 2016: "Prophecy Watchers are morphing into a mixed apocalyptic bag".5 

In 2019 Gary Stearman and Bob Ulrich announced, "A New Day is Dawning at Prophecy Watchers..  A grand opening of the former TBN Broadcasting Studios and headquarters in Oklahoma. Prophecy Watchers certainly seem to enjoy the favour of Daystar. Whether they have the favour of God is another question! (Proverbs 3:3-4). The Roys Report: Curiously, Prophecy Watchers stated on a video entitled, “Laying Out a Fleece and a Daystar Miracle!” that it had canceled its previous contract with Daystar due to lack of finances sometime before July 25, 2022. But shortly after doing that, Daystar called Prophecy Watchers and offered it a better time slot than it had previously at a reduced rate, said Prophecy Watchers COO Bob Ulrich.

TRR reached out to Daystar and asked why the network would cancel a full-paying customer, like Endtime Ministries, and replace it with Prophecy Watchers at a reduced rate. Daystar did not respond to our question."6 

Ray Comfort  ~ In 2008 Ray Comfort was challenged about speaking at a conference with Word-Faith prosperity teachers. Ray Comfort's reply (below) is very troubling. (Proverbs 3:5). In the Old Testament, individual disobedience threatened the entire community; the commandment of God was that the individual was subject to the penalty of death in order to preserve the purity of the entire nation. (Deuteronomy 13:1-18). The consequences of not heeding the commandments outlined in the Torah was that Israel would suffer the curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28:1-68. In the New Testament, the scriptural imperative is to mark and avoid false teachers. (Romans 16:17-18 cf. 1 Corinthians 5:11; 2 Thessalonians 3:6). The consequence of disobeying this imperative is to put the body of Christ at risk of defilement. (Matthew 24:11; 1 Corinthians 5:13; 2 Corinthians 11:4). Furthermore to enter into contractual obligations with false teachers is to be yoked together with them and keeps greedy money preachers and false prophets afloat. (2 Corinthians 6:14).  

Ray Comfort: "I have never turned down any request to speak because I thought that the church’s doctrine was unbiblical. In fact, they are the invitations I have gladly accepted because I know that false conversions are the fruit of their heretical doctrines. Unsaved people sit in pews in the millions in this country because they have never heard the biblical gospel–and I have to say with Paul, 'How will they hear without a preacher?'
What I have been doing for all these years has been below the radar screen of public scrutiny, until recently. Suddenly the spotlights are on and I am targeted (and fired at) as one that is endorsing false doctrine.
I am not and have never been a prosperity preacher. I think it is a great error to say that Jesus was rich, etc., or to come to Him for wealth. I preach the simple gospel of Jesus Christ crucified for the sin of the world. That is the heart and soul of my preaching and teaching."
May I implore you, dear friend–what would you do? Imagine you were invited to speak at an event or church where false teaching has created false converts. You know that a thousand people will hear a true Gospel presentation from your lips. Would you turn down the invitation?7 

The majority of teachers associated with Daystar promote the pretribulation rapture. Just as the prosperity gospel holds out false hope to believers, the pretrib rapture also holds out false hope to believers. (Mathew 24:21). The reality is that this doctrine is likely to devastate many believers in the final generation. The critical concern of those who reject the pretrib rapture is the prospect that many believers will "fall away" during the great tribulation due to lack of preparation and the shock that the promised "pretrib rapture" has failed their expectations. (Matthew 24:10). It is not a good idea to base eschatology on the teachings of cult leader John Nelson Darby and fictional "Left Behind" theology. Some argue that eschatology is an in-house secondary issue that we should not be overly concerned about. While it is possible to be saved without a clear understanding of eschatology, in my view this is a critical subject. Jesus' explicit warning about the end of the age is: See that no one leads you astray. (Matthew 24:4 cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:3). Since one-third of the bible concerns prophecy, believers are responsible for studying the scriptures and testing the spirits. (2 Timothy 2:15; 1 John 4:1). 

1. Moore's Corner Church, Leverett, MA
2. (2) AN ONLINE PASTOR WARNS... - The Gathering of the Ragged but Redeemed | Facebook
Jack Hibbs Endorses NAR Che Ahn l HR1154 "Conspir@cy The0rists" bill l Temple on earth @ FOT timing
3. RATHEREXPOSETHEM: COMPLETE ECUMENICAL APOSTASY: DAVID JEREMIAH INVITES ROMA DOWNEY & MARK BURNETT, CATHOLIC NEW AGE HERETICS~PASSES "TURNING POINT" INTO HERESY & APOSTASY
4. Evangelicals and Catholics Together - Wikipedia
5. Prophecy watchers morphing into a mixed Apocalyptic bag - Berean Research

6. Jimmy Evans Announces He’s Leaving XO Marriage, After Daystar Backlash

7. Ray Comfort Controversy - Catholic Reformation

Further Links

Alan Kurschner: (9 Reasons Why the Rapture and Resurrection Occur AFTER the Great Tribulation (Rapture Talks) | ESCHATOS MINISTRIES)

Baruch Korman: (Rapture - Part 1 - Dr. Baruch Korman of HOME | LoveIsrael.com)  

Chris White: The Prewrath Rapture Chris White 

Author and researcher Dave MacPherson spent years exposing the errors and the dishonesty of the pretrib camp. It is well worth reading his material: WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: FALSE PROPHETS AND BIBLE TEACHERS IN THE LAST DAYS: Search results for dave mac 

DO CHRISTIANS AND MUSLIMS WORSHIP THE SAME GOD?

In 2003 President Bush faced a backlash from Christians when he said that he believed that Muslims and Christians worshipped the same God.1  

This question ties into Billy Graham's "Muslims are saved" remarks in 1994,2 and the Pope's remarks in 2013. {Muslims] worship the one living and merciful God, and call upon him in prayer."3 In 2014, false teacher Brian Houston (formerly of Hillsong) indicated that Allah and God are the same. Houston: "Do you know – take it all the way back into the Old Testament and the Muslim and you, we actually serve the same God. Allah to a Muslim; to us, Abba Father God."4 After a clip of this sermon went viral, Houston accused his critics of quoting him out of context. 

JD Greear, former president of the Southern Baptist Convention and pastor of The Summit Church in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina muddied the waters in 2010 when he stated “Believing wrong things about God and worshiping him incorrectly doesn’t mean one is worshipping a different God” in his book Breaking the Islam Code (p.59). American evangelical apologist Neil Shenvi who is a congregant of The Summit Church recently reignited this controversy when he responded to a tweet from Megan Bashan on X regarding Greear's apparent affirmation that Muslims and Christians do in fact worship the same God. Shenvi's response: "I was inclined to say 'No', but Acts 17:23 seems hard to square with this. If pagans worshipping at a pagan shrine to an 'unknown god' were 'worshipping god in ignorance' what are the implications." 

Shenvi subsequently removed his tweets with an apology, but by that time the damage was done. 

Greear is typical of many false teachers who talk out of both sides of their mouths and fail to give a definitive answer. Below Greear says "absolutely not" while affirming that he has fewer problems with Muslims and Christians "attempting to worship the same God."

Greear: "Are there multiple ways to God and does God receive the worship of Christians and Muslims alike? The answer is absolutely not, because Islam is a false way of salvation. It presents basically salvation by works and it outright denies several key things that Christianity teaches about God, like God being a Trinity and the personal nature of God and just a number of things. There is some question as to... Muslims say they worship the God of Abraham. And some missionaries have found it helpful to start with that and say, like Jesus said to the woman at the well in John 4, 'Who you think you're worshiping you're not actually worshiping.' When Jesus confronted her, a Samaritan woman who was worshiping wrongly and had wrong ideas about God. He didn't say you're worshiping a different God. He said you're attempting to worship the One Creator, God, the wrong way. And I've heard people talk about that as an approach to Muslims and I think it has some merit. I think when you're a missionary on the field, one of the things that you're trying to do is you're trying to say, [is] this God that we believe has created the world, has been speaking through the prophets, this God was revealed fully in Jesus. He is a Trinity. And Muhammad is not an accurate prophet of him. If somebody says that, I have less problems with them saying that Christians and Muslims are attempting to worship the same God but in two entirely different ways."5 

The Acts 17:23 Question

For as I passed along and observed the objects of your worship, I found also an altar with this inscription: ‘To the unknown god.’ What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you. (Acts 17:23).  

Shenvi's implication that people can worship the true God under another name opens the door to heresy and universalism. Paul did not affirm that the Athenians were worshipping the true God, rather he was using the example of the altar to "the unknown god" as an evangelistic opportunity to proclaim the true God. The scriptures decisively deny the heretical claim that the Athenians worshiped the true God. Scripture interprets scripture, i.e. the less clear passages of scripture MUST be interpreted in the light of the clearer passages.  

Who is the liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son. No one who denies the Son has the Father. Whoever confesses the Son has the Father also. (1 John 2:22-23). 

He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 16:15-17).

For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. (1 Corinthians 15:3-5).

because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:9).

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6).

There is no common ground between Christianity and Islam theologically. The foundational teaching of the New Testament is that Jesus is the Son of God. Islam denies the triune nature of God and is unequivocal that Allah has no son. Islam asserts that Allah is the God of Abraham (Ibrahim) and Ishmael6 whereas the Old Testament repeatedly asserts: I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. (Exodus 3:6 cf Exodus 3:15-16;6:3). 

1. Bush Faces Criticism Over Statement that Christians and Muslims Worship the Same God | Pluralism Project Archive

2. Billy Graham: Muslims, Non-Believers 'Saved' Apart from Hearing About Jesus

3. Christians, Muslims, and ‘the Same God’ | Catholic Answers Magazine  

4. Brian Houston Teaches Muslims and Christians Serve the Same 

5. J. D. Greear on Whether Muslims and Christians Worship the Same God

6. Abraham in Islam - Wikipedia 

  

Do Christians and Muslims Worship the Same God? JD Greear Controversy, Neil Shenvi & Billy Graham
Issue 77 Article 5 - The Same God:Did Paul Claim the Athenians Worshipped Yahweh? - Affinity - Affinity
J.D. Greear says Christians & Muslims Worship the Same God - Capstone Report

Mefferd Lets Greear Have It For Coddling Up to Anti-Semite

LANCE WALLNAU GASLIGHTING: THE DAYSTAR SCANDAL

Lance Wallnau Addresses Daystar Scandal

The Roys Report: "Televangelist Lance Wallnau doesn't mention why he's pulling his program from scandal-ridden Daystar TV. Instead, he posts a video Jan. 5, 2025, attributing the uproar over the scandal at Daystar to a 'spirit of strife.' And chastises people commenting on the situation, saying they likely are just acting out of their own unresolved issues."

False prophet and teacher Lance Wallnau is an influential leader in the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) and a proponent of Seven Mountain Dominionism. Wallnau is a self-described Christian nationalist who supports the absurd claim that Donald Trump's presidency is "walking us through the Cyrus prophecy of Isaiah 45.” See the links at the end of this post for more information about Dominion Theology. 

Wallnau seeks to suppress the sins of Daystar and other apostate ministries and cloak them in darkness, hence his negligible attempt to silence their critics. (John 3:20; Romans 1:18); Proverbs 28:11). Wallnau accuses those speaking out against Daystar as "meddlers with a spirit of strife". When I heard this accusation it reminded me of King Ahab's accusation against Elijah: When Ahab saw Elijah, Ahab said to him, “Is it you, you troubler of Israel?” And he answered, “I have not troubled Israel, but you have, and your father’s house, because you have abandoned the commandments of the Lord and followed the Baals. (1 Kings 18:17-18).

Wallnau: "Don't get into a spirit of strife. You are not called to be a commentator on everything that is happening..  I don't know when the Body of Christ decided it has the authority to meddle with everyone else's business.."

Actually, believers have a mandate to judge false teachers and to bring sin into the light.

But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one. For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Is it not those inside the church whom you are to judge? God judges those outside. “Purge the evil person from among you.” (1 Corinthians 5:11-13 cf. Deuteronomy 17:7,21:21).

Bible Hub: "The Greek word used here is 'ἐξάρατε' (exarate), which means to remove or drive out. This is a strong directive, indicating the seriousness with which the church should handle sin within its community. The act of expulsion is not merely punitive but is intended to protect the church's integrity and encourage repentance and restoration. Historically, this practice was rooted in the Jewish tradition of maintaining community purity, and Paul adapts it to the Christian context to preserve the sanctity of the church."1

Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them; for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says,
“Awake, O sleeper,
and arise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you.” (Ephesians 5:6-13).

Bible Hub: "The Greek word for 'expose' is 'ἐλέγχετε' (elegchete), which means to reprove, rebuke, or bring to light. This is not merely a call to criticize but to reveal the truth and offer correction."2

Wallnau distorts Luke 12:13-15 in an absurd attempt to support his warped argument. He accuses Daystar's retractors of having wrong motives. Does Wallnau have authority to judge someone else's motives? 

Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?” And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” (Luke 12:13-15).

Jesus' response to the questioner was one of grave censure and indignation. (ἄνθρωπε, man! The word is sternly repressive. Comp. Romans 2:1.).3 It was not Jesus' mission to involve himself in temporal disputes. Interfering in such a matter would have opened the floodgates and given the impression of temporal authority. Jesus' kingdom was not of this world. (John 18:36). Wallnau expands on Jesus' response and goes on to second guess the motives of those calling out false ministries by accusing them of having a problem with authority. By the way, covetousness is something NAR money preachers know all about! 

Wallnau second guesses Jesus: "'Who gave me jurisdiction over your family dispute? Did my father do

it? You're bringing your problem to me and making me obligated to fix it, rather beware of covetousness.' ..He went right to the root issue in that person which was: if you're not walking sanctified and you're not walking clean, and if you've got a problem with authority.. Let me tell you something, and this is going to it's going to go down like a rat sandwich, but I've ministered for 40 years and a whole lot of people that have issues with church actually have issues in themselves, like 'church authorities is abusive'. Ask them, 'What was your relationship like with your mom and dad?' 'My father my father' then know you find out. People tend, if they don't really do a meticulous job of cleaning out their own closet, they tend to find the other person's closet a fascination. So it's not to say there aren't a whole lot of righteous Christians that are being led by God to do what they're doing. I don't even judge people that get involved with these things. There are preachers that are preaching on these scandals.. I will assume that they are hearing God, but that doesn't mean I'm obligated to have to have a commentary on every one of the seven scandals.. God loves us enough to not deal with us according to our sins, and so we have to have a little bit more of an evangelist heart in the church and beware of strife, its a spirit.."

Wallnau's response is pure gaslighting and scripture twisting. The sin issues connected with Daystar, Gateway Church, IHOP, and the other false ministries being exposed are off-the-chart depraved behavior and sexual abuse on a level that defiles the church and brings the gospel into disrepute. (2 Peter 2:2). True believers should not accept self-appointed leaders who claim authority when their fruit is rotten and they blatantly abuse their alleged position. (Matthew 7:15-20; 2 Peter 2:1; Jude 1:4; Acts 20:29-30; 1 Timothy 4:1-2; Romans 16:17-18).

The "I've ministered for forty years" line.. This bluster was also flaunted by Jimmy Evans and Joni Lamb as an intimidation tactic against Jonathan and Suzy Lamb.4 For this boast to mean anything, we would expect them to rightly interpret the scriptures. (2 Timothy 2:15; Galatians 6:3). Since this is not the case, their forty-plus years in "ministry" are meaningless. 

He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. (Psalm 103:10 cf. 2 Corinthians 5:19). Wallnau is right, God does not deal with us as our sins deserve. However, this promise is conditional upon repentance. (Acts 3:19). I have seen no repentance from these wolves. (1 John 1:9; Hebrews 8:12). Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would have no guilt; but now that you say, ‘We see,’ your guilt remains. (John 9:41; 1 John 1:8-10). 

1. 1 Corinthians 5:13 God will judge those outside. "Expel the wicked man from among you."
2. Ephesians 5:11 Have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.
3. Luke 12:14 Commentaries: But He said to him, "Man, who appointed Me a judge or arbitrator over you?"
4. ‘She’s the Voice of God’: Jimmy Evans, Joni Lamb Accused of Spiritual Abuse

Further Links

False Teacher of the Day #4: Lance Wallnau - by Jeff
Lance Wallnau Is Not Happy That We Pointed Out His False Prophecy | People For
APOSTASY, ERROR & DECEPTION IN WALES - the watchman4wales blog.: Dominionism

JIMMY EVANS DEVIOUS SWITCHEROO TO THE PRETRIB RAPTURE ON DAYSTAR

Jimmy Evans Announces He’s Leaving XO Marriage, After Daystar Backlash

Having been publicly exposed and disgraced as a false marriage counselor, Jimmy Evans is "transitioning" out of XO Marriage and intends to devote himself to endtimes.com. full time. God help his viewers!

"Daystar cancels prophecy program as Evans launches his..
The Roys Report (TRR) has also learned that Daystar abruptly canceled a long-running prophecy program on its network in July 2022. Days after the cancelation, Evans ran five, on-demand specials on Daystar titled almost identically to the canceled ministry.
On a recording of a May 2023 meeting between Evans, Joni, Doug, Jonathan, and Suzy, Joni states that she began talking to Evans about her relationship with Doug Weiss when these scheduling changes were taking place—July 2022.
The ministry whose show Daystar canceled was called Endtime Ministries, and the ministry website is endtime.com. Endtime Ministries was founded in 1986 by Irvin Baxter and had run a program on Daystar since 2009, called “End of the Age.”
The specials Evans ran on Daystar’s app and YouTube channel were entitled 'End Times' and the website for Evans’ new prophecy ministry is endtimes.com.
Endtime Ministries CEO Vince Stegall told TRR that the abrupt cancelation of his show and launching of Evans’ show was deeply disappointing and puzzling to his ministry. He said it also was confusing to viewers.
'We were getting calls, shortly after we were off, from the television audience,' Stegall said. 'And they wanted to know what happened to our host and why there’s this new guy named Jimmy on there . . .
'We still get emails and calls trying to figure out why our website is so different. It’s pretty confusing when you just add an ‘s.’
According to Endtime CEO Vince Stegall, Daystar claimed it cancelled 'End of the Age' because of a drop in viewership, following the death of founder Irvin Baxter. But Stegall said his buyer, who negotiated Endtime’s contract with Daystar, said that wasn’t true.Vince Stegall (Photo: Facebook)
'Our buyer has access to the software for TV ratings and he provided a lengthy explanation including (r)ating showing End of the Age is in the top 15 shows on Daystar every week,' Stegall wrote in a 2022 newsletter to supporters. '(A)nd our DVR numbers are generally 20-23% whereas the average for the rest of Daystar is 10%.
'In short, our buyer said, ‘This is clearly not a viewership issue and I can provide anything you need to make that argument.’ So there is obviously more to this than they are sharing.'
Jonathan Lamb told TRR that Daystar canceling a show mid-year is 'unheard of,' unless there’s a scandal or the ministry can’t pay the network fees.
However, Stegall said Endtime Ministries had no scandal and was current on its payments.."

It appears that Joni Lamb and Jimmy Evans hoped that their unethical move against Endtime Ministries would fly under the radar. (Numbers 32:23). However, some viewers questioned the puzzling change of presenter, not realizing that Endtime Ministries and Endtimes Ministries are two different ministries entirely! This devious name change and the usurpation of Endtime Ministries' time slot on Daystar is unworthy of a reputable man of God. As contemptible as this is, it gets even worse! Evans has introduced a critical shift in doctrine during this timeslot. Endtime Ministries taught what is referred to as the posttrib rapture view.1 Although the posttrib rapture view has some problems, it does not hold out false hope to believers of escaping the great tribulation. Evans' switcheroo from the posttrib view taught by Endtime Ministries to pretrib no doubt appeals to "itching ears". (2 Timothy 4:3). As many have observed, the false NAR Word-Faith prosperity teachers incessantly aired on Daystar are adept at giving false hope to believers. Within the biblical context, false hope refers to misplaced trust or confidence in things, people, or circumstances that ultimately cannot deliver what they promise. The Bible warns against placing hope in anything other than God, as such hope is deceptive and leads to disappointment and spiritual peril. (Jeremiah 23:16).2 The danger of pretrib teaching is the possibility that many will fall away during the great tribulation due to what they will regard as the "failed" prophecy of Jesus' return before the 70th week of Daniel. (Matthew 24:10-15 cf. Daniel 9:27).

The pre-trib rapture is based on the teaching of cult leader John Nelson Darby and fictional "Left Behind" eschatology. This view has been effectively debunked by a number of trustworthy bible teachers.

Jesus cautioned his disciples: Remember, I have told you ahead of time" (Mattew 24:25).

Paul cautioned believers: Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered (episunagōgēs) together to him, we ask you, brothers, not to be quickly shaken in mind or alarmed, either by a spirit or a spoken word, or a letter seeming to be from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself against 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 2:1-4).

* episunagōgēs = gathering together: in context, the rapture at the Lord's coming.

Jimmy Evans is much more than a despicable bully to Jonathan and Suzy Lamb with his claim that "Joni is the voice of God"; he is much more than a dishonorable man who has no qualms about cutting in on another ministry and pulling a fast one for his own advantage; he is much more than a dangerous false teacher who has led believers into adulterous marriages; Jimmy Evans is a full-blown wolf who is so corrupt that he has no qualms about endangering the faith of his hearers! Evans fruit testifies against him! Mark and avoid this man. (Romans 16:17-18).

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

These are hidden reefs at your love feasts, as they feast with you without fear, shepherds feeding themselves; waterless clouds, swept along by winds; fruitless trees in late autumn, twice dead, uprooted; wild waves of the sea, casting up the foam of their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever. (1Jude:12-13).

  

1. Why We Believe in a Post-Tribulation Rapture – Endtime Ministries | The Endtime Show
2. Topical Bible: False Hope

Further Links

Six PROOFS of a Pre-Wrath Rapture | ESCHATOS MINISTRIES
Prewrath - Early Church Fathers

ONE CHURCH LEICESTER: DAVID HIND "LEADER OF LEADERS"

"David and Susan Hind are the Senior Leaders of One Church.. David is a dynamic leader of leaders and leads with an apostolic gifting. A man of faith and passion for people, he is committed to seeing Leicestershire and beyond transformed by the gospel of Jesus."1 

Can you imagine any of the real apostles talking like this? (Jeremiah 45:5; 3 John 1:9). This kind of worldly rhetoric would have appalled the real apostles and the early church. The only "Senior Pastor" in the church is Jesus Christ! The express instruction of Jesus was that no one within the body of Christ should seek honorific titles.

But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. And do not call anyone on earth your father, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Christ. The greatest among you shall be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. (Matthew 23:8-12).

Berean Study Bible: "The term 'Rabbi' originates from the Hebrew word 'רַבִּי' (rabbi), meaning 'my master' or 'my teacher.' In the historical context of first-century Judaism, being called 'Rabbi' was a title of honor and authority, signifying a person who was a learned teacher of the Law. Jesus, in this passage, is addressing His disciples and the crowds, cautioning them against seeking titles that elevate them above others. This admonition is a call to humility, reminding believers that their worth and identity are not found in titles or human accolades but in their relationship with God. The emphasis here is on the equality and unity of believers, who are all learners under the ultimate Teacher."2  

When people give themselves self-exalting honorific titles of distinction such as Senior Leader, Apostle, Prophet, Senior Prophet, Bishop, Pastor etc. they honour themselves, they do not honour our Lord Jesus Christ. Leaders who are truly Christlike shun anything that glorifies self and detracts from the glory due to God alone. The pattern of leadership practiced throughout the Book of Acts is simply that Paul and Barnabas “appointed elders for them in every church.” (Acts 14:23). The local church in the New Testament consisted of a plurality of male elders. (Acts 14:23,20:28; Philippians 1:1; Hebrews 13:17). The New Testament knows nothing about senior pastors, women pastors, or multi-site churches where one man has the presumption to claim overall leadership. 

The brothers, both the apostles and the elders (Acts 15:23).

This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. (1 Corinthians 4:1).

I have been a fool! You forced me to it, for I ought to have been commended by you. For I was not at all inferior to these super-apostles, even though I am nothing. (2 Corinthians 12:11).

To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.. (Ephesians 3:8).

We sent Timothy, our brother and fellow worker for God in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith.. (1 Thessalonians 3:2).

The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. (1 Timothy 15-16).

James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.. (James 1:1).

So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder.. (1 Peter 5:1).

And count the patience of our Lord as salvation, just as our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you according to the wisdom given him, (2 Peter 3:15).

Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and a brother of James.. (Jude 1:1).

JP Moreland: "The emergence of the role of senior pastor in the local church is one of the factors that has most significantly undermined the development of healthy churches."3 

Frank A Viola: "In keeping with our Lord's command, biblical elders did not permit themselves to be addressed by honorific titles such as "Pastor Bill," "Elder Tom," "Bishop Jake," or "Reverend Sam" (Matthew 23:7-12). Such titles naturally elevate church leaders to a plane above the other brethren in the assembly. Thus, congregations and clergy alike are responsible for creating the current 'Christian guruism' that is rampant in the church today wherein religious leaders are recast into spiritual celebrities and lauded with fan club status. By contrast, New Testament leaders were viewed as ordinary brethren and were just as approachable and accessible to the saints as any other believer in the church."3

If those who like to give themselves titles were to see God's glory, they would shrivel up in shame. (Job 42:5-6; Isaiah 6:5;  Matthew 17:6; Luke 5:8; Revelation 1:17; Ezekiel 1:28; Daniel 10:8-9). 

The Gospel Coalition: "I mourn for the church because we seem to display so many of the characteristics that Jesus said, 'Not so among you' (Mark 10:43). Shameful arrogance and haughtiness have reached epidemic proportions among church leaders.. A direct implication of Jesus' servant stance was His obliteration of titles.. We have refused to take Jesus' words at face value. Jesus' obvious intent was to remove any basis for 'lording it over' others by dispensing with titles that give people an elevated place in the 'pecking order.' We all occupy the same level ground at the foot of the one Teacher, Jesus Christ. We are not 'great ones' or 'lords'.. Finally, do not accept the designation 'master' or 'leader.' No human can usurp the position of the head of the body, Christ. Our tendency seems always toward idolatry, to make someone larger than life. Never forget: Jesus alone is Lord.."3

The Gospel Coalition: "Unbiblical leadership structures can wreak havoc on the people of God and bring reproach on the name of Jesus Christ. A failure to honor the clear teaching of Scripture on how a church should be governed is a recipe for disaster. .. (problems) can be traced back to a singular, authoritarian pastor who largely avoided meaningful accountability.. In most instances, however, the deacons (or elders) exist only to rubber-stamp his decisions..4

The ultimate rejection of false apostles and prophets 

And on that day, declares the Lord of hosts, I will cut off the names of the idols from the land, so that they shall be remembered no more. And also I will remove from the land the prophets and the spirit of uncleanness. And if anyone again prophesies, his father and mother who bore him will say to him, ‘You shall not live, for you speak lies in the name of the Lord.’ And his father and mother who bore him shall pierce him through when he prophesies.“On that day every prophet will be ashamed of his vision when he prophesies. He will not put on a hairy cloak in order to deceive, but he will say, ‘I am no prophet, I am a worker of the soil, for a man sold me in my youth.’And if one asks him, ‘What are these wounds on your back?’ he will say, ‘The wounds I received in the house of my friends.’ (Zechariah 13:2-6 cf. Isaiah 27:12).

"that day" (בַּיּ֣וֹם הַה֔וּא) This phrase identifies the eschatological "Day of the Lord" when God will act to completely obliterate (הִכְרַתִּ֤י) the idols from the land. Note that false prophets are identified with "a spirit of uncleanness". No unclean thing will enter the millennium and nothing will defile during that period. Those who glibly claim "God told me" in the present age will face the wrath of God and blackest darkness is reserved for them. (Jude 1:12-13). This passage should instill the fear of God in the Hinds and others who falsely claim to receive "prophetic words" that do not come to pass. (Proverbs 9:10). When someone claims "God told me" they should be very sure that God has actually spoken to them! 

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 cf. Acts 20:29-30; 1 John 4:1; 1 Timothy 4:1-2; 2 Timothy 4:3-4; Romans 16:17-18).

And the LORD said to me: “The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I did not send them, nor did I command them or speak to them. They are prophesying to you a lying vision, worthless divination, and the deceit of their own minds. (Jeremiah 14:14).

Therefore thus says the Lord GOD: “Because you have uttered falsehood and seen lying visions, therefore behold, I am against you, declares the Lord GOD. (Ezekiel 13:8).

1. About | One Church Leicester

2. Matthew 23:8 But you are not to be called 'Rabbi,' for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers.

3. Church Leaders and the Use of Honorific Titles

4. Why We Need the ‘Plurality Principle’

Further Links

Podcast: The Bible's Vision for Leadership vs. Daystar TV's
Toxic Church Cultures | GRACE Live Conversation | Scot McKnight & Boz Tchividjian
Answering the Key Questions About Elders
Lessons on Leadership, Pt. 4: Plurality Vs. Singularity - The Good Book Blog - Biola University
Topical Bible: The Boaster