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Thursday 21 March 2019

TREASURE HUNTING ~ BETHEL'S PSEUDO EVANGELISM LEICESTER 30TH MARCH 2019

Beware: ANCL Treasure Hunting & Outreach on the Streets 

All Nations Church in Leicester (ANCL) have announced that a team of Bethel Students will be joining them on Saturday, the 30th March in the city centre between 1:00pm - 4:00pm for the dubious activity of "Treasure Hunting" in the city centre. {1}

Treasure Hunting is a form of pseudo evangelism known as "prophetic evangelism" that appears to have originated at Bethel Church in Redding CA in 2005. {2}

Treasure Hunting is also associated with Healing on the Streets (HOTS) in the UK under the Vineyard banner. I warned about this practice back in 2012 when ANCL and Holy Trinity Church in Leicester joined forces to practice this particular form of pseudo evangelism. {3}

Typically, Treasure Hunting involves small teams of three or four people who decide on a place to conduct their "hunt", such as a park or a shopping centre. Prior to the Treasure Hunt, team members ask God to give them prophetic “words of knowledge” called “clues” about the specific people they will find at the chosen location. These clues may include a person’s name, descriptions of that person’s dress or appearance, and any ailments they may be suffering from etc. Team members mark these clues on a treasure map, which they then use to guide them to the person, called a “treasure”, who matches their clues.

Treasure Hunting is not supported by the scriptures and is problematic on a number of critical levels. Prophetic words of knowledge are not viewed as 100% accurate even by their proponents. A major concern is that these "words of knowledge" are a figment of the imagination of those seeking "clues", or even worse, that they are a form of occult divination. (Jeremiah 23:16, 35-26; 27:9; Ezekiel 13:2). Should the unsuspecting public be subjected to these dubious practices?

In 2012 the ASA upheld complaints about a leaflet that stated: "NEED HEALING? GOD CAN HEAL TODAY!” listing various diseases.

"While the ASA acknowledged that the advertiser believed that prayer could treat illness, it concluded that the ad made unsubstantiated claims and could discourage people, particularly the vulnerable or those suffering from undiagnosed symptoms, from seeking essential treatment. It ruled the ad could encourage false hope in those suffering from the named conditions and was therefore irresponsible (Healing on the Streets – Bath, 13 June 2013). To date CAP has not seen evidence that religious healing can treat or cure illness, dysfunction or malformations. Marketers should be aware that testimonials alone are unlikely to suffice as adequate substantiation."
{4}

The biblical definition of evangelism is: Zealous preaching (promulgation dissemination) of the gospel; spreading the word, spreading the gospel, telling the gospel message. There is no indication in the scriptures that we should get "creative" and do things in another way according to man made methodologies. Seeking signs for their own sake is wicked according to Jesus Christ. (Matthew 12:39). 

The primary mission of the church is to preach the gospel. And he said to them, "Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation. (Mark 16/15). Problematically, the clear message of the gospel is missing from this kind of "outreach".

Both Jesus Christ and Paul gave priority to the gospel message. But he said to them, "I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other cities also; for I was sent for this purpose." (Luke 4/43).

If I proclaim the gospel, this gives me no ground for boasting, for an obligation is laid on me, and woe to me if I do not proclaim the gospel! (1 Corinthians 9/16).

Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people. (Matthew 4/23).

And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. (Matthew 9:35) .

As you go, proclaim the good news, "The kingdom of heaven has come near. 'Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers,cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment. (Matthew 10/7-8).

"Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation. The one who believes and is baptized will be saved; but the one who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: by using my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues;they will pick up snakes in their hands,and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover." (Mark 16/15-18).

And they went out and proclaimed the good news everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by the signs that accompanied it. (Mark 16/20).
Notice that the signs were a confirmation of the gospel message and not an end in themselves!

..and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. (Luke 9/2).

They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere. (Luke 9/6).


But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles performed, he was amazed. (Acts 8).

You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ—he is Lord of all. That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. (Acts 10/36-38).

And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. ( James 5/15).
In this instance James was addressing believers, not those outside the church.

There are instances of people coming to Jesus for healing e.g. the leper Matthew 8/2); the centurion (for his servant) (Matthew 8/5; Luke 7/2) Jairus (for his daughter) (Mark 5/22; Luke 8/41); the ten lepers Luke 17/11-19) These people had all clearly heard of Jesus’ teachings and healings and they recognised his authority, they came to Jesus –he did not go them (Peter’s mother in law being the exception). Jesus did not promote his healings or miracles, in fact he sometimes told those he healed not to tell anyone. (Matthew 8/4; Mark 1/44; 5/43;7/36) Jesus’ ministry was hindered by the leper's disobedience in telling about his healing (Mark 1/45).

In the instance of the demoniacs - it was the demons, not the men themselves who recognised Jesus – this was not a physical healing but an exorcism:

When he came to the other side, to the country of the Gadarenes, two demoniacs coming out of the tombs met him. They were so fierce that no one could pass that way. Suddenly they shouted, "What have you to do with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?" (Matthew 8/28-29) Jesus told the healed demoniac to go home and declare how much God has done for you. (Luke 8/39; Matthew 8/28). 

So they remained for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who testified to the word of his grace by granting signs and wonders to be done through them. (Acts 14/3).

Very sadly, Bethel students are extremely vulnerable young people who have been brainwashed by the Bethel cult of Bill Johnson. Johnson personally brought a group of Bethel Students to England in 2012? where they practiced necromancy in the form of grave sucking/soaking. The numerous bizarre practices of Bethel are a matter of great concern to many discernment ministries.




1. https://ancl.churchsuite.co.uk/events/3w12zbpd
2. https://www.bethel.com/testimonies/gods-treasure-hunt/
3. https://hubpages.com/religion-philosophy/HEALING-ON-THE-STREETS-PSEUDO-EVANGELISM
4. https://www.asa.org.uk/advice-online/religious-and-spiritual-healing.html

Thursday 14 March 2019

ALL NATIONS CHURCH LEICESTER: KINGDOM CONNECTIONS

I have warned previously that the New Apostolic Reformation is a counterfeit form of Christianity that is taking many churches by stealth worldwide. The NAR is not an organisation per se, but rather it is an aberrant movement that is spreading like gangrene, just like the false teaching of Hymenaeus and Philetus. (2 Timothy 2:17). All Nations Church in Leicester has participated in the diabolical NAR agenda for many years.

The false premise that present-day apostles and prophets must hold formal offices of governance in the church, ahead of pastors and elders, is antithetical to the scriptures. NAR leaders claim that their apostles and prophets have extraordinary authority, on a par with New Testament apostles and Old Testament prophets. However, they will not be held to the same accountability, in that they allow for their prophecies to be inaccurate. (Deuteronomy 18:20-22; Jeremiah 28:9; Ezekiel 33:33). NAR "Apostle" Mike Bickle freely admits that 80% of the manifestations that occur in charismatic meetings are not real! {1} He is quite prepared to overlook the false in favour of the 20% of manifestations that are supposedly real! Bickle's irresponsible attitude just about sums up the credibility of the NAR. (Jeremiah 5:31).

The NT makes no mention of the formal office of Apostle or Prophet, rather, an apostle is simply a missionary or a church planter, and the gift of prophecy is one of various gifts Paul listed for the common good. (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). The insistence that local pastors and elders must submit to the authority of NAR apostles and prophets is very concerning. Within the NAR, individual apostles acting on behalf of the "global church", have authority over their own network of churches and ministries, sometimes numbering into the hundreds. This contradicts the biblical model of church structure as laid down in the NT. Paul instructed Titus to ..appoint elders in every town as I directed you. (Titus 1:5; cf. Acts 14:23). In the New Testament, individual churches are autonomous congregations with their own local overseers directing their specific affairs. In fact NAR apostles and prophets literally hijack churches and overrule pastors/elders because of their presumptuous claims to receive direct revelation from God.

NAR apostles and prophets claim to have peculiar authority equal to and even above that of the foundational New Testament apostles. (1 Corinthians 3:10-12). They claim that they are bringing new and crucial revelations that are essential for the church. These claims fly in the face of the scriptures and the orthodox assertion that appears in many doctrinal statements affirming the sufficiency of scripture as the only infallible source of doctrine and practice. (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Since NAR leaders deny the fact that the canon of scripture is closed, they give themselves free reign to pronounce ongoing extra biblical revelations by their own authority. In doing so, they usurp the authority of the scriptures and leave believers with no point of reference by which to test the spirits and determine truth. (1 John 4:1). In alleging the restoration of apostles and prophets, the very foundation laid by the NT is destroyed. (Ephesians 2:20). ..if the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do? (Psalm 11:3).

The credentials for an apostle are clearly laid out in the NT. When choosing a replacement for Judas Iscariot, Peter specified that he must be - "..one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these men must become with us a witness to his resurrection.” (Acts 1:21-22; (John 15:27;1 Corinthians 9:1; Acts 22:14-15). The apostles were personally chosen by Jesus Christ Himself (Matthew 10:5; Mark 3:13-14; Luke 6:13; Acts 1:24-26; Acts 9:15; Acts 22:14-15,21; Acts 26:16). Jesus was seen alive by the apostles after his resurrection (Acts 1:17, 22, 25). Obviously, none of the above criteria apply to NAR "apostles". (Revelation 2:2).

Dominion theology is a very dangerous form of unbiblical eschatology followed by NAR networks. NAR dominionists take Genesis 1:28 out of context as a divine mandate to claim dominion over the earth. They claim that Jesus Christ cannot and will not return until dominion of the earth is achieved by the church physically, spiritually and politically through their seven mountain mandate. According to the NAR this mandate involves a great revival and transference of wealth to NAR leaders. However the scriptures state the precise opposite of these false teachers. Jesus Christ stated unequivocally that at the end of the age many will fall away from the faith (Matthew 24:10), there will be massive deception (Matthew 24: 4,5,11,24), betrayal (Matthew 24:10), and great tribulation (Matthew 24:21). The apostle Paul corroborated Jesus' words and also prophesied a falling away (apostasy) (2 Thessalonians 2:3 cf. 1 Timothy 4:1).

Kingdom Connections will be holding sessions on Friday and Saturday 15th and 16th of March at No 10 Meyer Hall and Wycliffe Hall in Leicestershire. This is yet another local push for the one world religion aka the New World Order of the Antichrist.

About Kingdom Connections
Kingdom Connections evolved relationally in an apostolic context across the UK and in Europe. Tim and Sue Eldridge (Harrogate) have standing relationships with Ian and Marj Rossol (Leicester) and John and Chris Larkin (Southampton), all of whom are working in itinerant ministry to serve, bless, encourage and equip others in the body of Christ. As their relationship across the UK developed they became more intentional in working together as a team, connecting the connectors in their wider spheres of involvement with networks, denominations, streams, churches and individuals.

We celebrate the diverse expression of church and our desire is to serve within and across as many as God connects us to. Our aim is not to create a formal organisation, but to provide opportunities for strategic partnership and sharing and so give God glory by honouring one another in this way. Our desire is to dialogue with local and regional leaders. (Malachi 3:16) {2} 

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’ “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, for he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes.(Matthew 7:21-29).

And the angel said to me, “The waters that you saw, where the prostitute is seated, are peoples and multitudes and nations and languages. And the ten horns that you saw, they and the beast will hate the prostitute. They will make her desolate and naked, and devour her flesh and burn her up with fire, for God has put it into their hearts to carry out his purpose by being of one mind and handing over their royal power to the beast, until the words of God are fulfilled. And the woman that you saw is the great city that has dominion over the kings of the earth.” (Revelation 17:15-18). 


Then those who feared the Lord spoke with one another. The Lord paid attention and heard them, and a book of remembrance was written before him of those who feared the Lord and esteemed his name. “They shall be mine, says the Lord of hosts, in the day when I make up my treasured possession, and I will spare them as a man spares his son who serves him. Then once more you shall see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve him. (Malachi 3:16-18).



Blasphemous Charismatic & Pentecostal Mayhem #6: "The New Apostolic Reformation" of False Prophets

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=511_SiErw0U&feature=youtu.be
2. http://www.ancl.co.uk/whats-on/calendar/

Further Links:

http://www.deceptioninthechurch.com/TB_2.html
https://churchwatchcentral.com/2018/04/06/nar-apostle-randy-his-apostolic-network-his-voice-of-the-apostles-conference/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxItfu_gM8w
http://www.spiritoferror.org/

Monday 4 March 2019

HOLY TRINITY CHURCH LEICESTER: RANDY CLARK HEALING & MINISTRY CONFERENCE

BEWARE: APRIL 25TH RANDY CLARK HEALING & MINISTRY CONFERENCE
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/randy-clark-healing-ministry-conference-tickets-53005180923

Randy Clark founded the organisation Global Awakening as a direct result of launching the so called "Toronto Blessing", a supposed outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the Toronto Airport Vineyard Church (TAVC) (now Catch The Fire Church Toronto) in January 1994. At the initial "revival" meeting, the entire church was overwhelmed by ecstatic phenomena following Clark's address. The Senior Pastor of TAVC, John Arnott, reported that most members fell on the floor "laughing, rolling, and carrying on". {1} These bizarre events occurred as a consequence of Randy Clark's "transferable anointing" in 1993, administered by Rodney Howard-Browne, the earliest known proponent of the "holy laughter" revival phenomenon. Clark continued as the primary speaker at TAVC for a few months, and the so called "blessing" began to spread worldwide. However, as time went on, concerns began to emerge about the authenticity of the "blessing", and some began to question whether the manifestations were truly an outpouring of the Holy Spirit or whether in fact a different spirit was at work. (2 Corinthians 11:4).

I advise extreme caution to anyone considering attending the above event, and especially those who are open to receiving "healing" or an "anointing" by the laying on of hands. The whole concept of "transferrable anointing" is highly questionable, and involvement with so called "manifestations of the Spirit" can be extremely dangerous. The aim of these meetings is to suspend critical judgement, usually by lulling the congregation into a false sense of security through emotive mantra type "praise and worship" songs. Typically these revival/healing meetings are accompanied by heterodoxy (heretical teaching) that is incompatible with scripture. The bible instructs us in no uncertain terms to avoid such people. (2 John 1:10-11; Romans 16:17). Those Christians who attend Holy Trinity (or any church associated with them), should consider that the early church were exhorted to be self-controlled and sober-minded. (1 Peter 4:7; Titus 2:2; 1 Timothy 3:2; 1 Corinthians 14:33; Titus 2:6). We should note that when Jesus Christ healed Legion the demoniac, he was restored to his right mind. (Mark 5:15). Jesus healed those who were sick, the demonically possessed and those having seizures etc. (Matthew 4:24). In all cases, those who were healed by Jesus were restored to normality! 

Biblically, signs are a confirmation that follow the preaching of the true gospel of Jesus Christ: And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by accompanying signs. (Mark 16:20). When Jesus sent out the twelve there were no bizarre manifestations. Those afflicted by demons and the sick were simply delivered and healed: ..they went out and proclaimed that people should repent. And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them. (Mark 6:12-13; Matthew 10:7-8; Acts 5:12). There is no possibility that God would ever confirm the message of false teachers, but Satan manifests himself as an angel of light. (2 Corinthians 11:14; 2 Thessalonians 2:9; Matthew 24:24). 

Actually the behaviours manifested at these supposed revival events are comparable to those exhibited by people who suffered from demonic oppression/possession prior to being delivered by Jesus. I refer to various manifestations described by NAR "Apostle" Mike Bickle: "..shaking, jerking, loss of bodily strength, heavy breathing, eyes fluttering, lips trembling, oil on the body, changes in skin color, weeping, laughing, drunkenness, staggering, travailing, dancing, falling, visions, hearing audibly into the spirit realm, inspired utterances - prophecy, tongues, interpretation - angelic visitations and manifestations, jumping, violent rolling, screaming, wind, heat, electricity, coldness, nausea as discernment of evil, smelling or tasting good or evil presences, tingling, pain in the body as discernment of illnesses, feeling heavy weight or lightness, trances -altered physical state while seeing into the spirit world, inability to speak normally, disruption of natural realm - electrical circuits blown." {2}

Christian author and speaker Andrew Strom has traced the mass invasion of false spirits precisely back to the Toronto Blessing of 1994. He has identified these manifestations as being identical to the Kundalini Spirits of Hinduism.

In his review of Strom's book 'Kundalini Warning', Greg Gordon, SermonIndex writes: "The church of Jesus Christ does not realize that it has been infiltrated by demonic forces. Discernment has been lost." {3}

New Apostolic Reformation Concerns

The New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) is very concerning on a number of critical levels:

Randy Clark is the founder of The Apostolic Network of Global Awakening (ANGA). ANGA is an NAR network. As its name implies, Global Awakening are pursuing a future revival on a global level which they describe as "A global great awakening". {4} Global Awakening is an ecumenical organisation that participates in the unbiblical eschatological position widely known as Dominion Theology.

Very briefly, NAR dominionists take Genesis 1:28 out of context as a divine mandate to claim dominion over the earth. They claim that Jesus Christ cannot and will not return until dominion of the earth is achieved by the church physically, spiritually and politically through their seven mountain mandate. {5} According to the NAR this mandate involves a great revival and transference of wealth to NAR leaders. However the scriptures state the precise opposite of these false teachers. Jesus Christ stated unequivocally that at the end of the age many will fall away from the faith (Matthew 24:10), there will be massive deception (Matthew 24: 4,5,11,24), betrayal (Matthew 24:10), and great tribulation (Matthew 24:21). The apostle Paul corroborated Jesus' words and also prophesied a falling away (apostasy) (2 Thessalonians 2:3 cf. 1 Timothy 4:1).

Randy Clark is a self confessed "Apostle" of the NAR which is sometimes referred to as "the Third Wave of the Holy Spirit" within charismatic/Pentecostal circles. The NAR was described by its founder, C Peter Wagner, as "..a gradual opening of straight-line evangelical churches to the supernatural ministry of the Holy Spirit without the participants becoming either Pentecostals or Charismatics." {6}

NAR apostles and prophets claim to have extraordinary authority above that of the original New Testament apostles. They claim that they are bringing new and crucial revelations that are essential for the church. These claims fly in the face of the scriptures and the orthodox assertion that appears in many doctrinal statements affirming the sufficiency of scripture as the only infallible source of doctrine and practice. (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Since NAR leaders deny the fact that the canon of scripture is closed, they give themselves free reign to pronounce ongoing extra biblical revelations by their own authority. In doing so, they usurp the authority of the scriptures and leave believers with no point of reference by which to test the spirits and determine truth. (1 John 4:1). In alleging the restoration of apostles and prophets, the very foundation laid by the NT is destroyed. (Ephesians 2:20). ..if the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do? (Psalm 11:3).

The credentials for an apostle are clearly laid out in the NT. When choosing a replacement for Judas Iscariot, Peter specified that he must be - "..one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these men must become with us a witness to his resurrection.” (Acts 1:21-22; (John 15:27;1 Corinthians 9:1; Acts 22:14-15). The apostles were personally chosen by Jesus Christ Himself (Matthew 10:5; Mark 3:13-14; Luke 6:13; Acts 1:24-26; Acts 9:15; Acts 22:14-15,21; Acts 26:16). Jesus was seen alive by the apostles after his resurrection (Acts 1:17, 22, 25). Obviously, none of the above criteria apply to NAR "apostles". (Revelation 2:2).

NAR "Prophet" Simon Braker (Legacy Ministries International), founder of School of the Spirit and Associate Minister at Holy Trinity Church in Leicester will be sharing the platform with Randy Clark at this conference. The office of "Prophet" is also a bogus title. The New Testament refers specifically to the offices of elder and deacon (Titus 1:5; Acts 14:23; Philippians 1:1), but there is no evidence to suggest that prophets held a formal governing office in the church. Furthermore, the gift of prophecy is not the authoritative domain of one certain exalted individual within a congregation. The gifts of the Holy Spirit are distributed according to God's will. (Hebrews 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:11). In the NT, whatever was spoken by a prophet was to be tested by the others. Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh what is said. (1 Corinthians 14:29; 1 John 4:1). Braker is a mentor of other so called "prophets" and is a self confessed "experience addict", claiming to have been "drunk" for two weeks prior to his antics at Revival Night Ministry on the 14th October 2017 at Living Waters Foursquare Church in London. {7} My assessment of Braker's "performance" at this meeting can be read on the following link:
Beware Of Channeler Simon Braker: School Of The Spirit Leicester.

Simon Braker further advances aberrant NAR teachings at "Revival now (prophetic prayer)". This is a monthly interdenominational event that includes the dubious practices  of "..personal prophetic ministry and impartation". {8}

Holy Trinity Church in Leicester (CofE) is at the epicentre of the false doctrine being promoted in the city. John McGinley, Vicar of Holy Trinity, is New Wine Regional Director for the Midlands and East and is also an "Apostle".

In fact Randy Clark, Simon Braker and their associates perfectly meet the criteria of the false prophets/teachers described by Jesus Christ and His apostles in the New Testament. The scriptures are replete with warnings about false teachers:

Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. (Matthew 7:15).


I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them. (Acts 20:20-30).

Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons.. (1 Timothy 4:1).

For if someone comes and proclaims another Jesus than the one we proclaimed, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or if you accept a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it readily enough. (2 Corinthians 11:4)

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 2:3-4).








1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toronto_Blessing
2. http://fliphtml5.com/lnym/wvfu/basic/201-250
3. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004WDZSX0/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch
_vapi_taft_p1_i0
4. https://globalawakening.com/
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Apostolic_Reformation
6. https://www.christianitytoday.com/edstetzer/2013/october/third-wave.html
7. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQxeq42b-34&t=879s

Further Links:

http://www.deceptioninthechurch.com/TB_2.html
https://churchwatchcentral.com/2018/04/06/nar-apostle-randy-his-apostolic-network-his-voice-of-the-apostles-conference/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxItfu_gM8w
http://www.spiritoferror.org/

Friday 22 February 2019

CLOSINGSTAGES: PART TWO FACT CHECKING JACOB PRASCH - "THUS SAITH THE LORD", ON TBN

“Of all bad men religious bad men are the worst.” C.S. Lewis

In part one we showed Jacob scheduled to speak at a church that has TBN connections; and a video of Jacob’s teaching against affiliating with anyone that links to TBN. This clearly shows that Jacob teaches one thing and does another. In Jacob’s video on TBN Christian television; he says we should not appear on, or affiliate with those that do.

Jacob uses a “thus saith the Lord” to reinforce how God forbids us to associate with TBN and that it is equal to embracing and approving the error and false teachings of TBN. We then discovered that Jacob himself was doing the same thing he preaches against. He is speaking at a Church that associates with TBN, hyper-charismatic and is very much about the Hebrew roots; which is yet another topic Jacob preaches against. Jacob and Moriel decided to “clarify” that this church has removed any mention of TBN off of their website and also stated that the congregation and the rabbi were very much in line with Jacob and Moriel’s beliefs and doctrines. Hence part two, let’s take a closer look at who Jacob and Moriel embraces and are aligning themselves with.

Jacob Prasch teaches against a lot of ministers, ministries, prophets, teachers etc.. Some of what he teaches is true, mostly concerning the hyper charismatic, Word of Faith preachers, TBN etc. However; some of what he teaches is just as false and full of error; as those he teaches against.

Remember Jacob Prasch himself, says that even false teachers will at times speak the truth, they lay truth alongside of error, that’s part of the deception, he knows this well.

Jacob is scheduled to speak at Sar Shalom Messianic Congregation in Mansfield Ohio in March of this year.


There is a lot of information given here and in the video, we just want to encourage everyone to really take the time to listen and look at it all, it really is critical not to be deceived. The most current bit of information that has come to light is that Sar Shalom Messianic Congregation is hosting an event scheduled for February 23, 2019. They are having Rabbi Kirt Schneider speak. He has his own show “Discovering the Jewish Jesus” https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/

Additionally Sar Shalom Messianic Congregation fb page_ event also listed all Rabbi Schneider’s media affiliations which is an entire brood of heretical Christian TV stations including of course TBN.









It’s obscene to watch how Jacob excuses and absolves Sar Shalom church and Rabbi Hallbrook by their removal of the mention of TBN on their website and yet the entire group is a den of hyper charismania, hebrew roots and more. All the while Jacob and Moriel justifies and attempts to nullify the connection. And yet it is certain that, Jacob with his self deluded, hypocritical self righteousness, will be roasting someone else over the open flames of hell with his “righteous” wrath, over some perceived spiritual infraction that he deems to heretical.


Jacob teaches against the Hebrew root’s movement and women preachers. Below are just a few links of Jacob addressing the subjects of women in ministry and Hebrew Roots. The last video link is a snippet of what Sar Shalom Messianic Congregation church believes and teaches on Hebrew Roots and yet Jacob and Moriel say that both the Rabbi and the Congregation are in agreement on doctrinal issues.

That well may be because both are preaching, and teaching error and it seems they’ve gotten to the point where they aren’t even able to discern their own deception. The topic of TBN is also included in the part two video of this article. (NOTE: the part two video also includes Sar Shalom church and Rabbi Hallbrook’s embrace and support of women in ministry, another one of Jacob’s topic he teaches against.)

There is a plethora of information on Prasch’s teachings against Hebrew Roots, hyper charismatic, TBN and women in ministry. When one compares his teachings to those of Sar Shalom’s church and their Rabbi it’s crystal clear that all three of Prasch’s teachings are diametrically opposed to Sar Shalom Messianic church and their Rabbi and leadership teachings, doctrines and affiliations. This is a warning to all about Prasch and Moriel.

2Ti 3:13 But wicked men and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and leading astray others and being deceived and led astray themselves.1Co 15:33 Do not be so deceived and misled! Evil companionships (communion, associations) corrupt and deprave good manners and morals and character. 

1Co 15:34 Awake [from your drunken stupor and return] to sober sense and your right minds, and sin no more. For some of you have not the knowledge of God [you are utterly and willfully and disgracefully ignorant, and continue to be so, lacking the sense of God’s presence and all true knowledge of Him]. I say this to your shame.

https://youtu.be/qHAiwIE5EVI

“Jacob Prasch why Every Christian Woman Needs A Mordecai”

8:50- 9:52 mark "when my daughter married her husband, a nice Jewish boy, who she met in church….I said to them…..I said to him in front of her before I left, I have given you, before the Lord spiritual charge of my daughter. I am no longer her primary covering in the Lord. I will no longer give account, primarily, from what she does from now on; for her spiritual guardianship and protection. Now that is in your hands as a believer and a husband, the responsibility it something that God has taken from my hands and now put into yours. The husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church and I said it to him in front of her, just before I left where the wedding was. That’s how I did it, other people may do it differently. …”

Other people may do it differently? That’s an understatement…. It’s clear in this clip Jacob is literally saying that all believing males/fathers of daughters should fall under his teaching, which is certainly not scriptural but falls under old testament and or man-made laws. Daughter’s are something to be handed off to another male and now her husband is responsible for what she does and doesn’t do spiritually. Notice in this video he makes no allowances for the Gentile culture but places everyone under his own legalistic bent on Jewish culture. Isn’t this living under two covenants, Jacob? This is what he teaches concerning the Hebrew Roots movement, they’re not to force non-Jews to conform to Jewish culture or traditions etc. This quote from Prasch’s video certainly shows how he vacillates between his own doctrines and beliefs, it shows his error and his hypocrisy.

https://youtu.be/5e5fu5xXMSU titled “Christians and the Old Testament Law” by Jacob Prasch

https://youtu.be/XWslBJrfpnE “Days of Deception-The Messianic Movement” Jacob teaching in this video Jacob rolls the hyper charismatics and the Hebrew root’s movement together.

https://youtu.be/tStya5CQ128 “Witchcraft – Hyper Messianic Legalism” – Jacob Prasch

https://youtu.be/wFh9SYuy4PM Sar Shalom Messianic Congregation bible study lead and taught by Steve McElhatten “Clarifying Paidagogos-Is the law a guardian?

Pictures worth a thousand words! One of Jacob’s excuses is that Hallbrook clearly agrees with Jacob and Moriel on TBN and its false teachers/teachings and Sar Shalom Church and Hallbrook have removed any mention of TBN off their website, yet they still sing the praises of TBN and the men that appear on TBN and they allow them in their pulpit.

If you’re a follower of Jacob Prasch, Moriel and affiliates, we would advise you to run, find and vet someone else to listen to that doesn’t speak out of both sides of their mouth, someone who doesn’t manipulate the scriptures or circumstances to their advantage which leads to deceiving others.







https://closingstages.net/2019/02/22/part-two-fact-checking-jacob-prasch-thus-saith-the-lord-on-tbn/

Monday 18 February 2019

THE MARK OF THE BEAST - THE TWO WITNESSES

This post investigates the timing of the mark of the beast in terms of a futurist, premillennial, pre-wrath rapture perspective.

And I will grant authority to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth. These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of the earth. (Revelation 11:3-4).

The primary texts concerning the two witnesses are Revelation 11 and Zechariah 4. Their description as fire-breathing olive trees and lampstands suggests two awesome individuals endowed by God with superhuman power:


And if anyone would harm them, fire pours from their mouth and consumes their foes. If anyone would harm them, this is how he is doomed to be killed. 6They have the power to shut the sky, that no rain may fall during the days of their prophesying, and they have power over the waters to turn them into blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague, as often as they desire. (Revelation 11:5-6 cf. Exodus 7:17; 1 Kings 17:11; Luke 4:25).

The two witnesses are described as both prophets and witnesses. The definition of "prophet" is: "A person regarded as an interpreter or spokesperson for God; one through whom God speaks." In the New Testament: "..especially future events, and in p*articular such as relate to the cause and kingdom of God and to human salvation."{1} Jesus says to his disciples: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8). Both Elijah and John the Baptist wore sackcloth.. Biblically sackcloth is a sign of woe or mourning and it is also a sign of repentance. (Matthew 3:4; 11:21) The two witnesses will therefore proclaim the gospel from Jerusalem for a period of 3.5 years, or 1,260 days. Although local to Jerusalem, their ministry will be worldwide, due, in all probability, to the internet and/or other technological advances. (Revelation 11:9-10).

The identity of the two witnesses is something of a mystery. Zechariah was intrigued by this question, and he enquired of the angel: "What are these",
three times without receiving a clear answer. (Zechariah 4:4, 11,12). The strange explanation: "These are the two anointed ones who stand by the Lord of the whole earth.”(Zechariah 4:14). Some speculate that the two witnesses are Elijah and some other OT prophet, and others speculate that they are cherubim or other angelic beings. Since their identity is obscure in the scriptures, I will not attempt to identify them. 

The time frame of the ministry of the two witnesses is a key factor. The Book of Revelation gives us precise information regarding both the time of their death and the period they will minister. They die and are resurrected before the seventh trumpet is blown, towards the end of the second woe. (Revelation 11:3, 7-15). This places them decisively in the second half of the 70th week, during the great tribulation and during the first six trumpet judgements. With such detailed information, it is very difficult to come to a different conclusion, although inexplicably, some teachers do give alternative time frames for their ministry.

Notably, the ministry of the two witnesses coincides with the great signs done by the false prophet, even making fire come down from heaven to earth in front of people. (Revelation 13:13-14). I don't rule out the possibility of other agents of Satan also performing signs during this period: For false christs and false prophets (plural) will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect. (Matthew 24:24). The battle between God and Satan is graphically played out on the earth during the 1260 days, with agents from both opposing parties performing great signs. The signs performed by the false prophet are greatly welcomed by those who have come under the influence of the strong delusion. (2 Thessalonians 2:11). Conversely, the two witnesses will be universally hated. Their message will be abhorrent and the signs they perform will torment the earth dwellers. Ultimately they will be killed by the beast that rises from the bottomless pit. (Revelation 11:7). From the perspective of the true church, the two witnesses will undoubtedly provide much needed encouragement and motivation to stand firm during great tribulation when there will be unprecedented persecution and martyrdom. (Matthew 10:22; 24:13). After the tribulation is cut short, the two witnesses will continue to testify up until the end of the second woe. (Revelation 11:14).

Following the resurrection of the two witnesses, seven thousand people will be killed in the great earthquake of Revelation 11:13, ..and the rest were terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven. This phrase implies conversion. (Joshua 7:19; Revelation 14:7; 16:9). If this interpretation is correct, then the remainder of the people in the city of Jerusalem who give glory to God, are the very last people on earth to be saved immediately before the third woe begins. (Revelation 11:13).

There will also be proclamations/warnings from three angels, beginning with the declaration of the "everlasting gospel" (Matthew 24:14). This will be followed by warnings of impending judgements and will conclude with a strong warning not to worship the beast and its image or to take the mark. (Revelation 14:6-11). Since the judgements to come are imminent, it seems logical that the mark is also imminent, particularly as the warnings are preceded by the declaration of the "everlasting gospel". No Christian witness remains on the earth after the two witnesses are resurrected and after the proclamations of the three angels are delivered. It is difficult to place a precise time frame on the three angels, but I now begin to think that their proclamations may occur after the tribulation, possibly after the two witnesses are killed at the end of the second woe. (Revelation 11:14).

The pre-wrath view places the rapture between the sixth and seventh seal of Revelation. Following the rapture, the seventh seal reveals seven angels and seven trumpet judgements. (Revelation 8 to 11). The first four angels/trumpets wreak devastation upon the earth and the sea rather than directly upon people. (Revelation 8:6-13).

The fifth trumpet is the first of three woes and concerns the release of the locust/scorpion/demonic entities that will torment unbelievers for five months. Interestingly, there is no mention of the mark of the beast in this passage. The torment inflicted by these entities will only apply to those who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads:

1And the fifth angel blew his trumpet, and I saw a star fallen from heaven to earth, and he was given the key to the shaft of the bottomless pit. 2He opened the shaft of the bottomless pit, and from the shaft rose smoke like the smoke of a great furnace, and the sun and the air were darkened with the smoke from the shaft. 3Then from the smoke came locusts on the earth, and they were given power like the power of scorpions of the earth. 4They were told not to harm the grass of the earth or any green plant or any tree, but only those people who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads. 5They were allowed to torment them for five months, but not to kill them, and their torment was like the torment of a scorpion when it stings someone. 6And in those days people will seek death and will not find it. They will long to die, but death will flee from them. (Revelation 9:4-6).


The sixth trumpet judgement involves the four angels bound at the Euphrates river who are released in order to kill one third of mankind. (Revelation 9:13-19). Here again we find no reference to the mark of the beast. Unbelieving humanity refuse to repent even at this late stage, though it appears that the option to do so is available:


The rest of mankind, who were not killed by these plagues, did not repent of the works of their hands nor give up worshipping demons and idols of gold and silver and bronze and stone and wood, which cannot see or hear or walk, nor did they repent of their murders or their sorceries or their sexual immorality or their thefts. (Revelation 9:20-21).


Revelation 13 is a parenthetical chapter outlining the two beasts activities during the 42 months. (Revelation 13:5). The mark of the beast occupies final two verses of this chapter. (Revelation 13:16-18). According to the pre-wrath view, the tribulation is cut short by the rapture for the sake of the elect. (Matthew 24:22; Mark 13:20). However, the activities of the beast and the false prophet continue for the remainder of the 1260/1290 days beyond the rapture. Despite the devastation that has occurred on the earth, the two beasts and their followers continue in their rebellion until the appearance of Jesus Christ:

And I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies gathered to make war against him who was sitting on the horse and against his army. (Revelation 19:19).


The false prophet applies intense pressure in order to coerce people into worshipping the beast and its image and to take the mark. Once the mark is taken, repentance becomes an impossibility and the final fate of unbelievers is sealed. (Revelation 13:16-17;14:9). Theoretically, it appears that people are free to repent right up until the seventh trumpet is sounded and the third woe begins, although the scriptures indicate that they will not repent. (2 Thessalonians 2:11). If these people had already taken the mark of the beast, then the ministry of the two witnesses and the proclamations of the three angels would be superfluous since we are told that the mark is irrevocable. (Revelation 14:9-10). This indicates that the mark is not fully enforced until after the resurrection of the two witnesses and the proclamations of the three angels. The shift occurs when the seventh trumpet is sounded and the first bowl of wrath is released. The first bowl of God's wrath, administered by an angel, is the first reference in the scriptures to anyone actually having received the mark:


So the first angel went and poured out his bowl on the earth, and harmful and painful sores came upon the people who bore the mark of the beast and worshipped its image. (Revelation 16:2). 

Many teachers falsely identify the 14400 sealed from every tribe of Israel as evangelists. (Revelation 7:1-8). I will address this question in a further post.

Undoubtedly we are moving towards a cashless society and mark of the beast technology. This indicates that we are not too far off from the great tribulation and the return of Jesus Christ in my view. As such, it is important for believers to search the scriptures for their source of information rather than accepting other views, particularly those associated with the popular pre-trib "Left Behind" perspective which is erroneous in so many respects. 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prewrath

1. https://biblehub.com/greek/4396.htm

Monday 11 February 2019

A WARNING: BEN FITZGERALD 10TH MARCH CHROMA CHURCH LEICESTER

I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them. (Acts 20:29-30).

Chroma Church in Leicester was formerly Leicester City Vineyard Church, an affiliate of the Vineyard movement led by apostate John Wimber from the early 1980s. Chroma Church left the Vineyard Movement in 2017 after a period of ten years. Whatever the reasons for their departure from Vineyard, sadly it was not due to doctrinal issues. Chroma Church state unequivocally that their mission remains the same. {1}

Chroma Church are deeply influenced by the present apostasy that has swept over the major Christian denominations. On the 10th of March, Chroma Church will be hosting Ben Fitzgerald at their "Finding God Event". {2}  Ben Fitzgerald was formerly a pastor at Bethel Church in Redding, California. He is currently the leader of Awakening Europe and GODfest Ministries.

The main issue affecting many charismatic and Pentecostal churches is the de-emphasis of scripture in favour of the false claims of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR). 

The NAR can be briefly summed up as follows:

Ecumenism is the ultimate betrayal of Jesus Christ involving the de-emphasis of doctrine for the sake of bringing all Christian denominations together under one tent. In particular the NAR aligns itself with the false system of Roman Catholicism.

Dominionism is the false assertion that God is restoring the so called "lost offices of church governance", namely the offices of Prophet and Apostle. NAR leaders de-emphasise doctrine and usurp the authority of the scriptures via claims of new revelations and greater authority than Jesus' original apostles. (Revelation 2:2). Dominion theology/Kingdom Now/Third Wave is the false assertion that focuses on believers taking literal dominion of the earth. (John 18:36). Bethel Church attempts to achieve this by their infamous Seven Mountain Mandate.

The NAR is known for its overemphasis on signs and wonders at the expense of scriptural authority. (Matthew 16:4).

Below is some information about Ben Fitzgerald from the Bethel website:

"Originally from Australia, Ben Fitzgerald was on staff at Bethel in Redding for several years when in 2014, Jesus showed him a vision at a field to take back Europe. After many confirmations, Bethel sent Ben to Germany where he and his team now live and host city wide events across the continent called Awakening Europe. These events, funded primarily by giving, serve three primary functions: to equip believers to share Jesus with no fear, to unify the church for God’s plan for their nation, and to win many new people to God through mass outreaches." {3}

Ben Fitzgerald fully supports his parents, Jen and Ken Hodges, who lead the pseudo Christian ministry Christalighnment. This supposed ministry promotes "..accurate, personal destiny reading bookings, dream interpretation, spiritual cleansing, relationship counselling or healing..", via their Destiny Reading Cards, or more accurately, Christian tarot cards, as their critics contend. {4} Christalignment is anything but biblical and is based on New Age occultism.

"Christalignment thinks it's a good idea to take and then post photos of the naked people who visit their booth for 'Destiny Card' readings"
{5} 



Ben Fitzgerald promotes the bizarre practice of "Grave Sucking " aka "Grave Soaking", which in reality is necromancy. (Isaiah 8:19). Bill and Beni Johnson of Bethel Church Redding appear to have initiated this wicked practice a few years ago. The many detestable practices at Bethel go from the sublime to the ridiculous and are too numerous to mention here. Bethel claim that the “glory cloud” of God’s shekinah presence often manifests in their worship services and that the appearance angel feathers is also a regular occurrence. Bethel's obsession with false signs and wonders at the expense of the scriptures is truly astounding!

Below is a short video of Ben Fitzgerald promoting the practice of grave sucking:

Friday 1 February 2019

JACOB PRASCH HAS RAISED THE BAR TO AN ALTOGETHER DIFFERENT LEVEL!!!

Evil Speaking
Arthur Pink, 1935

"He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin" (Proverbs 13:3). "A guard upon the lips is a guard to the soul—he who is careful, who thinks twice before he speaks once, that, if he has thought evil, lays his hand upon his mouth to suppress it; he who keeps a strong bridle on his tongue, and a strict hand on the bridle—he keeps his soul from a great deal of guilt and grief, and saves himself the trouble of many bitter reflections on himself, and others upon him" (Matthew Henry). Alas, how many are now saying—by their very attitude and actions "our lips are our own—who is Lord over us?" (Psalm 12:4).

"Brothers, do not speak evil of one another" (James 4:11). Is not this a word which is much needed by some of us today? Alas, in some quarters the habit of discrediting others behind their backs has become so common that it is regarded almost as a matter of course; the mentioning to others of a brother's faults or a sister's failures, the repeating of unfavorable reports which have come to our ears—is so general that few appear to make any conscience thereof. Nevertheless, God still says "Brothers, do not speak evil of one another." Yes, this is an exhortation which requires to be prayerfully taken to heart, by not a few. Personally, the writer has to acknowledge with shame that this Divine injunction has not had the restraining influence upon his unruly tongue which it ought, and in what follows he desires to preach unto himself as well as to others. How solemn it is to observe that one of the sins mentioned in that awful catalogue enumerated in Romans 1:29-31, is that of detraction or injuring the reputation of others, "whisperers, backbiters". Herein does the corruption of man's vitiated nature evidence itself. To stain the good reputation of another is highly reprehensible.

God commanded us to love our neighbor as our self, and this requires that I am to be concerned not only about his person and property—but to protect his good name. "A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches" (Proverbs 22:1), and therefore to rob a man of his good name—is worse than stealing his property. A citizen of Zion is thus described, "One who has no slander on his tongue, who does his neighbor no wrong and casts no slur on his fellowman" (Psalm 15:3).

"Don't speak evil against each other, brethren" (James 4:11). That which is here forbidden, is the saying of anything, be it true or false, to the harm of another. God requires that our words should be governed by "the law of kindness" (Proverbs 31:26), and anything which would hurt or injure the reputation of another is to be rigidly shunned. Whenever I cannot speak well of my brother or sister, I must say nothing at all. It is devilish to take delight in exposing the faults of fellow-Christians, and stirring up prejudice and bitter feelings against them (Rev. 12:10). God requires that our words should agree with love—as well as with truth. Since Christians are brethren, the last thing they should be guilty of is defaming one another.

"Do not pay attention to every word people say" (Eccl. 7:21). "Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causes to err from the words of knowledge" (Proverbs 19:27). Beware of evil listening! Those who receive tales about others, who delight to hear of the failings of their brethren, encourage evil speakers in their sin and are partakers of their guilt. "The north wind drives away rain—so does an angry countenance a backbiting tongue" (Proverbs 25:23). The Christian is not only bidden to abstain from all evil speaking himself—but is required to discourage this sin in others by frowning on it and endeavoring to disapprove it. Slanders would not be so readily spoken as they are—if they were not so readily heard. "Many abuse those spoken evil of, only in hopes to curry favor with those they speak to" (Matthew Henry). Disappoint them by showing your disapproval.

Since it be a grievous sin to speak evil of a brother in Christ, how much greater is the offence when it is committed against one of His ministering servants! True, they are not faultless, yet their blemishes are not to be blazed abroad—but should be covered with the mantle of love. "Why were you not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?" (Num. 12:8)—observe the emphasis—you should be afraid to speak evil against any one, much more against My honored servant. It is written, "Against an elder, receive not an accusation—but before two or three witnesses" (1 Tim. 5:19). It is at our peril that we say or do anything against the servants of God, for He reckons those who touch them as touching "the apple of His eye" (Zech. 2:8). "Touch not My anointed, and do My prophets no harm" (Psalm 105:15) is His express command.

To speak evil of others, proceeds from ill will or malice, either desiring that they should be made odious in the esteem of others, or being quite indifferent if that effect be produced. To say that no harm is intended, is to talk foolishly, "Just as damaging as a mad man shooting a lethal weapon, is someone who deceives his friend and then says—I was only joking." (Proverbs 26:18, 19). Much repeating of the ill reports about others, issues from an uncharitable readiness to believe the worst, "For I heard the defaming of many, fear on every side. Report, say they, and we will report it" (Jer. 20:10). But the chief cause of this evil is an unruly tongue, nor are we likely to seek grace for bridling that member, until we really make conscience of this sin.

It is both striking and searching to note how often the Holy Spirit addresses Himself to God's children on this subject. Many are the verses in the Book of Proverbs which contain beneficial instruction for the right use of our tongues. So also in the New Testament, exhortations are frequently given against the wrong use of our tongues. "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice" (Eph. 4:31). "Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt" (Col. 4:6).

"Therefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, as newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that you may grow thereby" (1 Peter 2:1, 2). There must be the definite and daily "laying aside" of these bad habits if we are to preserve a healthy appetite for spiritual things. "For he who will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no deceit" (1 Peter 3:10). Here is one of the Divine rules of longevity, "evil speaking" has more ill effect upon the health than many imagine!

But is all speaking evil of another unlawful? No, though even here it is hard to keep clear of sinning. There are times when it is a duty to caution our friends against those who might prove a harm to them. If I know one is about to buy an article that has been misrepresented, or trust some money to a dishonest person, then I must faithfully raise my voice in warning. If I should be summoned as a witness in court, then I am bound to tell what I know. Yet, where the glory of God and the honour of His Gospel is at stake, or where there is danger of a brother being imposed upon or wronged, and my duty to speak out is plain, nevertheless, the following cautions need to be heeded.

First, take pains to fully verify what you have heard, and make sure that what you relate is true.

Second, do it in a right spirit—not censoriously, nor with delight—but with godly sorrow.

Third, be impartial, and if occasion requires you to mention another's faults, be careful not to conceal his virtues.

Except where the glory of God plainly requires it, and the good of our neighbor or brother demands it—we must refrain from all evil speaking of others. If we are duly occupied with and humbled over our own many faults, we shall have neither time nor inclination to dwell upon or publish those of others. If we properly heed the exhortation of Philippians 4:8, we shall cultivate the habit of admiring the graces in our brethren—instead of like filthy flies settling on their sores. Certain it is, that if we are not tender of the reputation of others, God will make us taste of the bitterness of this affliction for ourselves, "Be not deceived; God is not mocked—for whatever a man sows, that shall he also reap" (Gal. 6:7). "For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you" (Matt. 7:2).

How solemn is that word, "They speak evil of you. But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead" (1 Peter 4:4, 5). Well may we pray, "Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord! Keep watch over the door of my lips!" (Psalm 141:3)

gracegems.org/Pink/evil_speaking.htm