Heaven (Choice #2)
Have you ever met a person who did not want to go to heaven? Heaven was designed to be the ultimate experience. Some portray heaven as a place filled with plump little cherubs, floating on clouds, playing harps. The Bible tells us that heaven is a place which will allow us to experience our fullest potential and accomplish possibilities that we never realized on earth. This life which we have been given on earth is merely preparation for eternity, either in hell or in heaven. Which place are you preparing for?
Heaven, like hell, is an actual place. The fact of heaven is supported by Jesus, who frequently referred to it as the residence of God. "Our Father who art in heaven ... " (Matthew 6:9, NASB). Paul also spoke of being caught up into heaven, which he referred to as paradise (2 Corinthians 12:1-4), and stated that heaven was a far better place than earth. "We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home [in heaven] with the Lord" (2 Corinthians 5:8).
A Wonderful Place
There are many wonderful aspects of living forever in heaven. When we get there, we will be given perfect bodies. "But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Saviour from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who ... will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body" (Philippians 3:20-21). Heaven will also be a place of rest from earthly problems (2 Corinthians 4:17; Revelations 14:13), and there will be "no more tears" there (Revelation 21:4). When we get to heaven, we will also enjoy increased knowledge (1 Corinthians 13:8-10) and holiness (Revelation 21:27). In heaven we will be gloriously fulfilled by serving and worshipping the Lord (Revelation 19:1; 22:3).
I believe in heaven because God promised it to all those who place their trust in Him. John 3:16 says "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." Jesus also tells us that He is looking forward to seeing us in heaven. "In my Father's house are many rooms...I am going there to prepare a place for you" (John 14:2).
Make A Decision!
It's hard to believe there are only two eternal destinations, heaven and hell. That view may make God seem unfair, but remember, Jesus was literally crucified to give you this choice. He decided in favour of heaven when He hung on the cross as your Saviour.
Jesus desires that none of us should perish. "The Lord...is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9). He gave His life in our place as payment for our sin, that God might receive us into heaven.
Satan, on the other hand, has decided against heaven (Isaiah 14:12-14). The Bible tells us that Satan's desire is that we do perish. He intends to harm us, deceive us, and discourage us from following God (John 17:15; Revelations 12:9).
Heaven or hell..it's up to you. You must now make the final decision for yourself. Today I urge you to consider God's love for you. He wants you to spend a joyful eternity in heaven with Him. Say "yes" to heaven today. Say "yes" to Jesus Christ.
"This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death...Now choose life, so that you and your children may live" (Deuteronomy 30:19).
If you have made your decision between heaven and hell, you can pray something like this.
Dear Jesus, I know that I deserve hell, but You have offered me heaven as a gift of Your love. I have decided to place my trust in You right now. I want to be certain that by Your power I will be with You in heaven one day. Amen.
(by Daniel Southern, President, American Tract Society)
If you have made the decision to trust Christ, please e-mail us or visit http://www.emmanuelbarrie.org/.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Eternity is a Long Time -- Choose Wisely!
Hell (Choice #1)
People's opinion of the biblical description of hell ranges from "slightly confusing" to "completely irrational." Although everyone agrees that the idea of punishment and suffering is distasteful, the Bible claims that hell is an actual place. At the crux of the matter lies a question we all must ask ourselves..."What do I believe about hell?"
What's Your Hell?
In my own life my first encounter with the idea of hell marks the beginning of my spiritual pilgrimage, I will never forget the experience of sitting on the front seat of our old Chevy, my feet not yet touching the floor, listening to a radio program with my mother. The radio preacher spoke on why we would all surely go to hell if we did not place our faith in Jesus Christ as our personal Saviour.
My parents raised me in a very safe and secure environment. We went to church regularly, and I believed in God with all of my heart. But until that moment I had never been told that hell was my certain destination unless God somehow intervened.
The next time I remember thinking about hell was in high school as we read Dante's Inferno. Dante saw hell as a place made up of levels of punishment descending into an abyss inhabited by Satan himself. Dante portrayed his personal enemies writhing in hell, suffering torments based on how they had lived.
Another concept is the "hell on earth" that we all experience while living in an imperfect world. We all seem to go through seasons of distress and trouble. My own mind flashes back to the war in Viet Nam, my parent's divorce and the terrible loneliness I sometimes felt as an adolescent.
No-one Wants To Go To Hell
By definition, hell is the worst possible place we could ever imagine. The Bible describes hell as a place filled with eternal suffering and separation from God. "Their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulphur...And the smoke of their torment rises forever and ever." (Revelation 21:8; 14:11).
Jesus and Hell
Many people have no room in their "spiritual philosophy" for a place like hell but it is interesting to note that out of thirteen references to hell in the New Testament, twelve come from the very lips of Jesus Christ Himself. Jesus describes hell as a real place, inhabited by real people -- conscious, thinking people -- eternally regretting their misspent lives. Why do you suppose that Jesus Himself would be the primary spokesman on such a distasteful subject? It's because His very mission on this earth was to help us avoid that awful place. In fact, He poured out His life so we could get into a right relationship with His heavenly Father.
The Scriptures teach that hell was not created for you and me. Neither were we created for hell. Instead, hell was designed as a place of confinement and punishment for Satan and his angels when they rebelled against God. "Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.'" (Matthew 25:41).
Avoiding Hell
Yes, we all have some concept of hell, perhaps conjured up by bad experiences or exposure to fanatical preaching. But hell really exists and is described vividly in God's revelation to us in the Bible. We can choose to reject this concept because it is distasteful or seems irrelevant to us now, or we can come to grips with its reality, based on the authority of God's word but no matter how we choose to deal with this information -- the reality of hell remains.
The Bible tells us that we are saved (from hell) by faith alone. In John 5:24, Jesus says, "I tell you the truth, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life." Whenever the Bible talks about salvation, it is always in reference to the eternal doom that awaits those who reject God. "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on him" (John 3:36).
It's Your Decision
You see, we are all created for the purpose of knowing God and enjoying a relationship with Him. When we choose to exclude God from our lives, rejecting His desire to act as our loving, heavenly Father, we have made a decision with terrible and eternal consequences.
Many of us have not refused God outright...we have simply delayed making a decision about Him but psychologists tells us that we often deal with weighty choices this way. In effect, when we put off any decision -- that act itself is a choice. Jesus Christ said "he who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters" (Matthew 12:30). Today, I invite you to make the decision to receive Jesus Christ as your Saviour and enter into the privilege of becoming a member of His eternal family.
If you have decided to trust Jesus Christ as your Saviour, please e-mail us or visit http://www.emmanuelbarrie.org/ for more information.
People's opinion of the biblical description of hell ranges from "slightly confusing" to "completely irrational." Although everyone agrees that the idea of punishment and suffering is distasteful, the Bible claims that hell is an actual place. At the crux of the matter lies a question we all must ask ourselves..."What do I believe about hell?"
What's Your Hell?
In my own life my first encounter with the idea of hell marks the beginning of my spiritual pilgrimage, I will never forget the experience of sitting on the front seat of our old Chevy, my feet not yet touching the floor, listening to a radio program with my mother. The radio preacher spoke on why we would all surely go to hell if we did not place our faith in Jesus Christ as our personal Saviour.
My parents raised me in a very safe and secure environment. We went to church regularly, and I believed in God with all of my heart. But until that moment I had never been told that hell was my certain destination unless God somehow intervened.
The next time I remember thinking about hell was in high school as we read Dante's Inferno. Dante saw hell as a place made up of levels of punishment descending into an abyss inhabited by Satan himself. Dante portrayed his personal enemies writhing in hell, suffering torments based on how they had lived.
Another concept is the "hell on earth" that we all experience while living in an imperfect world. We all seem to go through seasons of distress and trouble. My own mind flashes back to the war in Viet Nam, my parent's divorce and the terrible loneliness I sometimes felt as an adolescent.
No-one Wants To Go To Hell
By definition, hell is the worst possible place we could ever imagine. The Bible describes hell as a place filled with eternal suffering and separation from God. "Their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulphur...And the smoke of their torment rises forever and ever." (Revelation 21:8; 14:11).
Jesus and Hell
Many people have no room in their "spiritual philosophy" for a place like hell but it is interesting to note that out of thirteen references to hell in the New Testament, twelve come from the very lips of Jesus Christ Himself. Jesus describes hell as a real place, inhabited by real people -- conscious, thinking people -- eternally regretting their misspent lives. Why do you suppose that Jesus Himself would be the primary spokesman on such a distasteful subject? It's because His very mission on this earth was to help us avoid that awful place. In fact, He poured out His life so we could get into a right relationship with His heavenly Father.
The Scriptures teach that hell was not created for you and me. Neither were we created for hell. Instead, hell was designed as a place of confinement and punishment for Satan and his angels when they rebelled against God. "Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.'" (Matthew 25:41).
Avoiding Hell
Yes, we all have some concept of hell, perhaps conjured up by bad experiences or exposure to fanatical preaching. But hell really exists and is described vividly in God's revelation to us in the Bible. We can choose to reject this concept because it is distasteful or seems irrelevant to us now, or we can come to grips with its reality, based on the authority of God's word but no matter how we choose to deal with this information -- the reality of hell remains.
The Bible tells us that we are saved (from hell) by faith alone. In John 5:24, Jesus says, "I tell you the truth, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life." Whenever the Bible talks about salvation, it is always in reference to the eternal doom that awaits those who reject God. "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on him" (John 3:36).
It's Your Decision
You see, we are all created for the purpose of knowing God and enjoying a relationship with Him. When we choose to exclude God from our lives, rejecting His desire to act as our loving, heavenly Father, we have made a decision with terrible and eternal consequences.
Many of us have not refused God outright...we have simply delayed making a decision about Him but psychologists tells us that we often deal with weighty choices this way. In effect, when we put off any decision -- that act itself is a choice. Jesus Christ said "he who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters" (Matthew 12:30). Today, I invite you to make the decision to receive Jesus Christ as your Saviour and enter into the privilege of becoming a member of His eternal family.
(written by Daniel Southern)
If you have decided to trust Jesus Christ as your Saviour, please e-mail us or visit http://www.emmanuelbarrie.org/ for more information.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Why Faith Teachers Misinterpret Scriptures?
The Faith teachers misinterpret Scriptures because they view the Bible in light of an overall philosophy of "Faith" and spirituality that is not biblical. Thus, when the Bible is removed from its historical context and read through the philosophy of a foreign world view, its meaning is naturally distorted. Just as it is difficult to read a book with prescription glasses when your vision is already 20/20, it is equally difficult to see the Bible clearly when it is read through the philosophy of the Faith teachers.
Some 30 to 40 key verses form the alleged Scriptural foundation of the Faith teaching (e.g., Genesis 1; 26:12-14; Joshua 1:8; Job 3:25; Hosea 4:6; Matthew 12:37; Mark 5:28; 10:30; 11:23; Luke 6:38; John 6:63; 10:10; 14:3-4, 12; Romans 4:17; 10:10; 2 Corinthians 4:17-18; Galations 3:13; Philippians 4:13; Hebrews 1:14-2:3; 4:14; 11:1; 3 John 2). But anyone who conducts his own personal study on these verses will prove to himself that they are always misinterpreted by the Faith teachers. Nevertheless, this explains why Christians can read their Bibles and "see" the Faith philosophy. It is only because these verses have already been misinterpreted for them by the Faith teachers.
This is the same process by which the Bible can be made to teach literally anything. For example, by taking verses out of context, we can also "prove" that Jesus Christ is not God (John 14:28, "the Father is greater than I"; 1 Timothy 2:5, "the man Christ Jesus"); that salvation is by good works and not by faith alone (James 2:24, "a man is justified by works and not by faith alone"); that man is a literal god (John 10:34, "I said, You are gods"); etc.
In a similar manner we can just as easily "prove" that the Bible teaches the Faith/Prosperity doctrines.
(from Facts on the Faith Movement - John Ankerberg & John Weldon).
Some 30 to 40 key verses form the alleged Scriptural foundation of the Faith teaching (e.g., Genesis 1; 26:12-14; Joshua 1:8; Job 3:25; Hosea 4:6; Matthew 12:37; Mark 5:28; 10:30; 11:23; Luke 6:38; John 6:63; 10:10; 14:3-4, 12; Romans 4:17; 10:10; 2 Corinthians 4:17-18; Galations 3:13; Philippians 4:13; Hebrews 1:14-2:3; 4:14; 11:1; 3 John 2). But anyone who conducts his own personal study on these verses will prove to himself that they are always misinterpreted by the Faith teachers. Nevertheless, this explains why Christians can read their Bibles and "see" the Faith philosophy. It is only because these verses have already been misinterpreted for them by the Faith teachers.
This is the same process by which the Bible can be made to teach literally anything. For example, by taking verses out of context, we can also "prove" that Jesus Christ is not God (John 14:28, "the Father is greater than I"; 1 Timothy 2:5, "the man Christ Jesus"); that salvation is by good works and not by faith alone (James 2:24, "a man is justified by works and not by faith alone"); that man is a literal god (John 10:34, "I said, You are gods"); etc.
In a similar manner we can just as easily "prove" that the Bible teaches the Faith/Prosperity doctrines.
(from Facts on the Faith Movement - John Ankerberg & John Weldon).
Friday, September 19, 2008
False Claims of New Revelation from God!
Many of the leaders in this movement claim that God, Jesus, or angels appeared to them and taught them these ideas. But we must ask, "Are these revelations biblical if they condone actions that are unbiblical or foolhardy?" In fact, the supposedly divine visions, revelations, prophecies and interpretations are often so false or unbiblical that one wonders if these visions are from their own mind or, worse yet, from the devil. For example, the history of the Old Testament is not without persons claiming to be spiritual leaders who thought that the visions of their own mind originated in God. But God told them, "The prophets are prophesying lies in My name. I have not sent them or appointed them or spoken to them. They are prophesying to you false visions, divinations, idolatries, and the delusions of their own minds." (Jeremiah 14:14, NIV).
Nevertheless, almost to a man, the Faith leaders claim God as their authority. Kenneth Copeland implies many of his teachings are a result of divine revelation. For example, his Prosperity: The Choice Is Yours "has been birthed by a natural flow of revelation knowledge from my heart to yours." The Jesus Copeland spoke to told Kenneth that he must "believe that your words have power, and the things you say will come to pass. The result is that you can have whatever you say when you believe."
Kenneth Hagin teaches "The Lord Himself taught me about prosperity ... I got it directly from heaven." For example, Hagin claims, "The Lord spoke to me and said, 'Don't pray for money anymore. You have authority through My name to claim prosperity.'"
Oral Roberts claims that his "Seed Faith" principles and other materials in his books were revealed directly to him by Jesus as, "fresh revelations straight from the throne room of God." Paul Yonggi Cho also claims his "fourth dimension" ideas and other teachings were given by God.
In Jerry Savelle's prosperity series we are told, "The revelation knowledge in this set was given to Brother Savelle supernaturally by God." Savelle himself claims, "The Lord supernaturally appeared to me in my hotel room...He said this to me 'My people are in financial famine and I'm giving you the assignment to go tell them how to get out.'" Savelle claims several other of his books were received "through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit."
In God's Creative Power, Charles Capps claims that God spoke to him directly in August of 1973: "The Word of the Lord came unto me saying, 'If men would believe me, long prayers are not necessary. Just speaking the Word will bring what you desire. My creative power is given to man in Word form. I have ceased for a time from my work and have given men the book of MY CREATIVE POWER...but for my Word to be effective men must speak it.'" Thus "Jesus" told Capps "I have told my people that they can have WHAT THEY SAY..."
In God's Miracle Plan for Man, Robert Tilton claims "In this book, God directed me by His Holy Spirit to write certain things to you. I have leaned on Him for every word...Contained in these pages are special words of wisdom, words of knowledge, and prophecies from the Lord..." In Solving the Mystery of the Miracle Money, Tilton claims, "The words in this book are not my words; they are the words of ... the Holy Spirit..." In God's Laws of Success he even implies that his books are on the same level as those of the New Testament. Thus, he does not blanch when he claims, "The Spirit of the Lord has given me this prosperity message to share with you."
In summary, all these men claim direct counsel from God. But is this really true? The inspiration supposedly given by Jesus and the angels and the words they spoke to these men do not sound at all like the biblical Jesus or the angels that speak for God in the Bible. Proof of this can be seen in the consistent misinterpretation of the Bible that such inspiration has produced.
(The Facts on the Faith Movement by John Ankerberg & John Weldon)
Nevertheless, almost to a man, the Faith leaders claim God as their authority. Kenneth Copeland implies many of his teachings are a result of divine revelation. For example, his Prosperity: The Choice Is Yours "has been birthed by a natural flow of revelation knowledge from my heart to yours." The Jesus Copeland spoke to told Kenneth that he must "believe that your words have power, and the things you say will come to pass. The result is that you can have whatever you say when you believe."
Kenneth Hagin teaches "The Lord Himself taught me about prosperity ... I got it directly from heaven." For example, Hagin claims, "The Lord spoke to me and said, 'Don't pray for money anymore. You have authority through My name to claim prosperity.'"
Oral Roberts claims that his "Seed Faith" principles and other materials in his books were revealed directly to him by Jesus as, "fresh revelations straight from the throne room of God." Paul Yonggi Cho also claims his "fourth dimension" ideas and other teachings were given by God.
In Jerry Savelle's prosperity series we are told, "The revelation knowledge in this set was given to Brother Savelle supernaturally by God." Savelle himself claims, "The Lord supernaturally appeared to me in my hotel room...He said this to me 'My people are in financial famine and I'm giving you the assignment to go tell them how to get out.'" Savelle claims several other of his books were received "through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit."
In God's Creative Power, Charles Capps claims that God spoke to him directly in August of 1973: "The Word of the Lord came unto me saying, 'If men would believe me, long prayers are not necessary. Just speaking the Word will bring what you desire. My creative power is given to man in Word form. I have ceased for a time from my work and have given men the book of MY CREATIVE POWER...but for my Word to be effective men must speak it.'" Thus "Jesus" told Capps "I have told my people that they can have WHAT THEY SAY..."
In God's Miracle Plan for Man, Robert Tilton claims "In this book, God directed me by His Holy Spirit to write certain things to you. I have leaned on Him for every word...Contained in these pages are special words of wisdom, words of knowledge, and prophecies from the Lord..." In Solving the Mystery of the Miracle Money, Tilton claims, "The words in this book are not my words; they are the words of ... the Holy Spirit..." In God's Laws of Success he even implies that his books are on the same level as those of the New Testament. Thus, he does not blanch when he claims, "The Spirit of the Lord has given me this prosperity message to share with you."
In summary, all these men claim direct counsel from God. But is this really true? The inspiration supposedly given by Jesus and the angels and the words they spoke to these men do not sound at all like the biblical Jesus or the angels that speak for God in the Bible. Proof of this can be seen in the consistent misinterpretation of the Bible that such inspiration has produced.
(The Facts on the Faith Movement by John Ankerberg & John Weldon)
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
What Is Faith?
Faith, like love, is both simple and complex. Therefore, it can be difficult to explain or easily misunderstood. The irony of the Faith Movement is that the faith it stresses is not biblical faith. What is faith? In essence, faith is simply trust. We all know what trust is: a boy with his father, a patient with his/her physician, a friend with a friend, etc. Thus, we may define faith as a loving self-commitment towards and trust in God, leading to personal surrender to Him in all affairs of life and appropriate conduct inspired by this surrender.
In the New Testament the most characteristic construction of the verb pisteuein (faith) denotes "an absolute transference of trust from ourselves to another, a complete self-surrender to God."
Despite what the Faith teachers claim, however, power does not reside in faith; it resides in God who sovereignly blesses a believer's faith according to His purposes (Psalm 62:11): "Whatever the Lord pleases He does, in heaven and in earth ..." (Psalm 135:6) "But our God is in the heavens; He does whatever He pleases" (Psalm 115:3).
This is the basic problem with the Faith Movement -- not that its adherents lack faith, but that their faith is often misplaced or inaccurately applied. For example, they may stress "having faith in their faith" more than trusting in God. As Charles Spurgeon stated in All of Grace, "faith is not blind -- it begins with knowledge; it is not speculative -- it believes facts of which it is certain are true -- it is not unpractical or romantic -- faith trusts wholly and stakes its very destiny on the truth of revelation."
But obviously, one cannot trust in God if one does not know Him. Just as obviously, one cannot trust what God says if one has wrongly interpreted the Bible. In order to know God and trust Him wholly, one must have accurate knowledge of who He is and what He has said.
In essence, to trust God is to trust God in all situations; it is not to attempt to manipulate God to fulfil our own will in life or escape from life's difficulties. In fact, problems and setbacks are an inevitable result of true faith. In a sinful, unbelieving world it could hardly be any other way. This is why the Bible promises godly Christians that persecution and all sorts of difficulties will be their lot in life (e.g., 2 Timothy 3:12).
The apostle Peter tells us that "suffer grief in all kinds of trials." But He also encourages us with a specific reason these trials have come: "These have come so that your faith -- of greater worth than gold...-- may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory, and honour when Jesus Christ is revealed (1 Peter 1:6-7, NIV). Further, the Bible teaches, "Whether it is pleasant or unpleasant, we will listen to the voice of the Lord our God..." (Jeremiah 42:6). "'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,' declares the Lord. 'For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts'" (Isaiah 55:8-9). Thus, in all circumstances we are to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6). This is faith.
(from The Facts on the Faith Movement by John Ankerberg & John Weldon)
In the New Testament the most characteristic construction of the verb pisteuein (faith) denotes "an absolute transference of trust from ourselves to another, a complete self-surrender to God."
Despite what the Faith teachers claim, however, power does not reside in faith; it resides in God who sovereignly blesses a believer's faith according to His purposes (Psalm 62:11): "Whatever the Lord pleases He does, in heaven and in earth ..." (Psalm 135:6) "But our God is in the heavens; He does whatever He pleases" (Psalm 115:3).
This is the basic problem with the Faith Movement -- not that its adherents lack faith, but that their faith is often misplaced or inaccurately applied. For example, they may stress "having faith in their faith" more than trusting in God. As Charles Spurgeon stated in All of Grace, "faith is not blind -- it begins with knowledge; it is not speculative -- it believes facts of which it is certain are true -- it is not unpractical or romantic -- faith trusts wholly and stakes its very destiny on the truth of revelation."
But obviously, one cannot trust in God if one does not know Him. Just as obviously, one cannot trust what God says if one has wrongly interpreted the Bible. In order to know God and trust Him wholly, one must have accurate knowledge of who He is and what He has said.
In essence, to trust God is to trust God in all situations; it is not to attempt to manipulate God to fulfil our own will in life or escape from life's difficulties. In fact, problems and setbacks are an inevitable result of true faith. In a sinful, unbelieving world it could hardly be any other way. This is why the Bible promises godly Christians that persecution and all sorts of difficulties will be their lot in life (e.g., 2 Timothy 3:12).
The apostle Peter tells us that "suffer grief in all kinds of trials." But He also encourages us with a specific reason these trials have come: "These have come so that your faith -- of greater worth than gold...-- may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory, and honour when Jesus Christ is revealed (1 Peter 1:6-7, NIV). Further, the Bible teaches, "Whether it is pleasant or unpleasant, we will listen to the voice of the Lord our God..." (Jeremiah 42:6). "'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,' declares the Lord. 'For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts'" (Isaiah 55:8-9). Thus, in all circumstances we are to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6). This is faith.
(from The Facts on the Faith Movement by John Ankerberg & John Weldon)
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Faith Movement - 13 Reasons for Real Concern
All characteristics listed below do not necessarily apply to each individual faith ministry or teacher. Nevertheless, the following themes are representative and they are a matter of great concern to many in the Christian community;
- Cultic Origins or Influences – A theology based to a significant degree upon the writings of New Thought Christian, E.W. Kenyon and to a lesser degree on the Mind Science cults.
- Oversimplification – Quick and easy solutions are offered to complex human problems. (For example, instant success formulas replace a process of life-long sanctification.)
- Abuse of the Bible – A consistent misinterpretation of the Bible resulting from an ignorance of biblical, systematic and historical theology.
- False Teachings – A variety of false and occasionally heretical teachings, some of which are similar to the ancient gnostic heresy.
- Spiritual Pride – A continued refusal to enter into dialogue with other Christian brothers who have, out of love, attempted to correct the Faith teachers. (For example, at the John Ankerberg Show we have attempted this with Kenneth Copeland and others and the authors of The Agony of Deceit reveal they “sought out those in question” to make certain they understood their teaching properly: “We have asked them to reconsider their positions in the light of Scripture and have repeatedly attempted to settle the confusion behind closed doors. All attempts have failed …”
- Spiritual Presumption – The Faith teachers claim that their individual messages are the result of direct divine revelation and / or inspiration.
- Worldly / Humanistic Theology – A distorted philosophy of God and Christian living is presented. (God as the “magical” provider of success, health, happiness, prosperity, power, self-esteem, etc.) as opposed to knowing God as He is and serving Him according to biblical standards.
- Experientialism – A preference for feeling and emotionalism over against concerns of the mind and intellect; the hindering of sanctification, wisdom, and discernment by placing spiritual experience over consistent biblical study.
- Hedonism – An emphasis on pleasure and “heaven now” with an unrealistic approach to pain, suffering, and illness; in other words, a stress on man-centered happiness rather than God-centered holiness.
- Exclusivism – The classification of those Christians outside their camp as “carnally minded,” as those who teach “unbelief” and the false traditions of men, and even as false teachers who nullify the power of God and His Word. Some have gone so far as to imply other Christians are double-minded believers who promote “powerless defeated beliefs” inspired by Satan, calling them liars and bringers of “death.”
- Power Religion – Stressing personal power and spiritual authority as the means to command angels, control one’s environment, and gain one’s desires.
- Lack of Balance – A teaching limited almost exclusively to stress upon “faith,” and success/prosperity/healing to the exclusion of the 99 percent of the rest of Christian living.
- Lack of Spiritual Integrity – This constitutes a triple denial of a minister’s divine call because: 1) what is preached involves a wrong dividing of the Word of truth (the Scriptures are distorted); 2) what should also be preached (sound doctrine, moral living, etc.) is downplayed or ignored (the Scriptures are forsaken); and 3) under these conditions Christians will never grow spiritually (the Scriptures are made void).
In essence, what is being lost to millions of Christians by the Faith teachers’ missed opportunities is almost incalculable. Rather than being taught the Bible accurately, rather than having the whole counsel of God preached, and rather than having their priorities straight, millions of Christians are being given a distorted set of spiritual values and priorities which, if not corrected, will lead to further difficulties and perhaps tragedies.
All this is why many commentators have proceeded to classify the Faith Movement as heretical. As charismatic historian D.R. McConnell summarized:
There are many peculiar ideas and practices in the Faith theology, but what merits it the label of heresy are the following:
- its deistic view of God, who must dance to men’s attempts to manipulate the spiritual laws of the universe;
- its demonic view of Christ, who was filled with “the satanic nature” and must be “born again” in hell;
- its gnostic view of revelation, which demands denial of the physical senses and classifies Christians by their willingness to do so; and
- its metaphysical view of salvation, which deifies man and spiritualizes the atonement, locating it in hell rather than on the cross, thereby subverting the crucial biblical belief that it is Christ’s physical death and shed blood, which alone atone for sin.
All four of these heresies may be accounted for by E.W. Kenyon’s syncretism of metaphysical thought with traditional biblical doctrine.
(taken from The Facts on the Faith Movement by John Ankerberg and John Weldon)
Friday, September 12, 2008
What Respected Christian Leaders Have To Say!
Many Christian leaders are in agreement that the teachings of the Faith Movement are not biblical and are harmful to the church. If you are involved in the Faith Movement, it is very important that you undertake a personal re-evaluation of your spiritual committment.
Just before his death, the late cult authority Walter Martin warned, "The situation is extremely serious" because the faith teachers "have forged a virtually unbroken chain of serious doctrinal deviation." He further observed, "the study of the Kingdom of the Cults has taught me many profitable lessons, and this is one of them -- error begets error; heresy begets heresy and always in the name of truth, always in the name of the gospel."
Noted theologian J.I. Packer author of Knowing God and God's Words, argues that calling "some televangelists to account for their heretical teaching, their spiritual unreality, their shameless personality-cult, and the spurious dramatics of the fund-raising is unpleasant but necessary, for pastoral reasons."
Dr. Donald K. Campbell comments that the Faith Movement "is grevious and threatens to engulf the Church and sweep many professed believers into dangerous currents of false and destuctive doctrine."
Church historian Dr. Harold Lindsell, author of The Battle for the Bible and The Bible in the Balance, warns, "Historic orthodoxy is being diminished by heretical departures from the true faith...Along with some biblical truths a poisionous stream of error is to be found."
Theologian R.C. Sproule, founder of Ligonier Ministries and author of The Holiness of God and In Search of Dignity observes, "Very little evidence of any significant knowledge of either Church history or theology is displayed by Copeland, Hagin, Tilton, Crouch, and others. These men are not scholars. There is nothing wrong with that...What is alarming, however, is the attitude with which these 'teachers' assert their novelties, claiming divine authority for charting a new course...There is such a thing as heresy. The tragedy is that it pervades the electronic church."
Noted Christian counselor Dr. Jay Adams believes that for too long the Faith teachers "have been spreading falsehood unchallenged."
Dr. Dave Breese, a popular speaker and author of Know the Marks of a Cult and Satan's Ten Most Believable Lies, laments that "much on television that passes for Christianity is a new Gnosticism, a revived pantheism."
In his analysis of the Faith Movement, distinguished professor of the New Testament Dr. Henry Krabbendam comments that, "The doctrinal positions will often prove to be confused, confusing, errant, and at times, even heretical; the interpretive procedures are arbitrary, ill-advised, deficient, and at times, even damaging."
Professor of Theology and Apologetics Dr. Rod Rosenbladt observes, "...many popular media evangelists are preaching what amounts to blasphemy in their references to Christ's Person and work...In almost every point of Christology, these televangelists have deviated from orthodoxy and have promoted their own fantasy saviour..."
Michael Horton comments in the following manner: "...the obnoxiousness of offering salvation for money is itself heretical, indeed, pagan. Nevertheless, the gospel heralded by some of the television preachers is even more perverted than that...It is not only crass and ugly; it is overtly blasphemous and anti-Christian...they are preaching another Word, another God, and another Christ."
Even the Dictionary of Pentecostal and Charismatic Movements representing 65 contributors from a large variety of different denominations, many of them Pentecostal and Charismatic, comments that the Faith teachings are based on a distortion of Scripture and a distortion of the biblical concept of faith, and that, for example, their concept that believers are "little gods" presents "the greatest danger."
(from The Facts on the Faith Movement by John Ankerberg & John Weldon)
Just before his death, the late cult authority Walter Martin warned, "The situation is extremely serious" because the faith teachers "have forged a virtually unbroken chain of serious doctrinal deviation." He further observed, "the study of the Kingdom of the Cults has taught me many profitable lessons, and this is one of them -- error begets error; heresy begets heresy and always in the name of truth, always in the name of the gospel."
Noted theologian J.I. Packer author of Knowing God and God's Words, argues that calling "some televangelists to account for their heretical teaching, their spiritual unreality, their shameless personality-cult, and the spurious dramatics of the fund-raising is unpleasant but necessary, for pastoral reasons."
Dr. Donald K. Campbell comments that the Faith Movement "is grevious and threatens to engulf the Church and sweep many professed believers into dangerous currents of false and destuctive doctrine."
Church historian Dr. Harold Lindsell, author of The Battle for the Bible and The Bible in the Balance, warns, "Historic orthodoxy is being diminished by heretical departures from the true faith...Along with some biblical truths a poisionous stream of error is to be found."
Theologian R.C. Sproule, founder of Ligonier Ministries and author of The Holiness of God and In Search of Dignity observes, "Very little evidence of any significant knowledge of either Church history or theology is displayed by Copeland, Hagin, Tilton, Crouch, and others. These men are not scholars. There is nothing wrong with that...What is alarming, however, is the attitude with which these 'teachers' assert their novelties, claiming divine authority for charting a new course...There is such a thing as heresy. The tragedy is that it pervades the electronic church."
Noted Christian counselor Dr. Jay Adams believes that for too long the Faith teachers "have been spreading falsehood unchallenged."
Dr. Dave Breese, a popular speaker and author of Know the Marks of a Cult and Satan's Ten Most Believable Lies, laments that "much on television that passes for Christianity is a new Gnosticism, a revived pantheism."
In his analysis of the Faith Movement, distinguished professor of the New Testament Dr. Henry Krabbendam comments that, "The doctrinal positions will often prove to be confused, confusing, errant, and at times, even heretical; the interpretive procedures are arbitrary, ill-advised, deficient, and at times, even damaging."
Professor of Theology and Apologetics Dr. Rod Rosenbladt observes, "...many popular media evangelists are preaching what amounts to blasphemy in their references to Christ's Person and work...In almost every point of Christology, these televangelists have deviated from orthodoxy and have promoted their own fantasy saviour..."
Michael Horton comments in the following manner: "...the obnoxiousness of offering salvation for money is itself heretical, indeed, pagan. Nevertheless, the gospel heralded by some of the television preachers is even more perverted than that...It is not only crass and ugly; it is overtly blasphemous and anti-Christian...they are preaching another Word, another God, and another Christ."
Even the Dictionary of Pentecostal and Charismatic Movements representing 65 contributors from a large variety of different denominations, many of them Pentecostal and Charismatic, comments that the Faith teachings are based on a distortion of Scripture and a distortion of the biblical concept of faith, and that, for example, their concept that believers are "little gods" presents "the greatest danger."
(from The Facts on the Faith Movement by John Ankerberg & John Weldon)
Thursday, September 11, 2008
The Power and Success of the Faith Movement
Every week over one half billion viewers world-wide watch television preachers. Many of these men preach a “Faith” gospel. Thus, no one can deny the power that is currently wielded by the leaders of the Faith Movement; they have tremendous influence on Christianity.
The satellite communication systems of the Kenneth Copeland ministries broadcast Copeland’s message throughout the world.
Kenneth Hagin has a daily radio program, “Faith Seminar of the Air,” which is broadcast over some 200 stations in 40 states. Almost 15,000 students have graduated from his Rhema Bible Training Centre and almost 40 million copies of his books have been sold.
According to a 1980 Gallup Poll, Oral Robert’s name was recognized by an incredible 84 percent of the American public; historian Vinson Synan “observed that Roberts was considered the most prominent Pentecostal in the world.” His books have sold tens of millions of copies and his television programming has reached more that 100 million people.
Robert Tilton is pastor of the 10,000 – member Word of Faith Outreach Centre in Dallas, Texas. His close-circuit satellite network brings monthly seminars to more than 2,000 churches while his televised Bible school has enrolled some 4,000 students in 600 locations. His daily television “Success – N – Life” broadcasts are seen by potentially millions of people. In Seoul, Korea, former Budhist, Paul Yonggi Cho, is pastor of the world’s largest congregation and has a ministry that extends throughout the world. Charles Capps has a national radio broadcast titled, “Concepts of Faith”; his books have also reached millions. The Trinity Broadcasting Network, which televises several of the Faith Movement teachers, has a satellite outreach to millions of people across America and in many other countries. John Osteen (and now Joel Osteen) is pastor of the Lakewood Church with a membership of more than 60,000 and together they have authored more than thirty books. Through national and international ministries carried on various local and satellite networks, the Osteens’ influence extends to more 100 nations. Frederick K.C. Price is pastor of the Crenshaw Christian Center with a membership of 15,000; his national television ministry, “Ever Increasing Faith” is featured on more than 100 stations in the U.S. and around the world.
All this raises an immediate question. If the Faith Movement is unbiblical as its critics maintain, why has it been so successful? The reasons are varied, including well-liked, charismatic leaders, an outward appearance of great success, and blessing by God – and faithful followers. But the Faith message of health, success, and wealth is also what many people wish to believe. As Michael Horton, editor of The Agony of Deceit, a critique of the Faith Movement, observes, “It is appropriate that a prosperity gospel be born in the hedonistic, self-centered, get-rich-quick, milieu of modern American society. We are, by nature, pagan. Either our religion will transform us or we will transform our religion to suit our sympathies.” Nevertheless, the great influence of the Faith Movement is why Christian leaders everywhere are concerned.
(from The Facts On The Faith Movement by John Ankerberg and John Weldon)
The satellite communication systems of the Kenneth Copeland ministries broadcast Copeland’s message throughout the world.
Kenneth Hagin has a daily radio program, “Faith Seminar of the Air,” which is broadcast over some 200 stations in 40 states. Almost 15,000 students have graduated from his Rhema Bible Training Centre and almost 40 million copies of his books have been sold.
According to a 1980 Gallup Poll, Oral Robert’s name was recognized by an incredible 84 percent of the American public; historian Vinson Synan “observed that Roberts was considered the most prominent Pentecostal in the world.” His books have sold tens of millions of copies and his television programming has reached more that 100 million people.
Robert Tilton is pastor of the 10,000 – member Word of Faith Outreach Centre in Dallas, Texas. His close-circuit satellite network brings monthly seminars to more than 2,000 churches while his televised Bible school has enrolled some 4,000 students in 600 locations. His daily television “Success – N – Life” broadcasts are seen by potentially millions of people. In Seoul, Korea, former Budhist, Paul Yonggi Cho, is pastor of the world’s largest congregation and has a ministry that extends throughout the world. Charles Capps has a national radio broadcast titled, “Concepts of Faith”; his books have also reached millions. The Trinity Broadcasting Network, which televises several of the Faith Movement teachers, has a satellite outreach to millions of people across America and in many other countries. John Osteen (and now Joel Osteen) is pastor of the Lakewood Church with a membership of more than 60,000 and together they have authored more than thirty books. Through national and international ministries carried on various local and satellite networks, the Osteens’ influence extends to more 100 nations. Frederick K.C. Price is pastor of the Crenshaw Christian Center with a membership of 15,000; his national television ministry, “Ever Increasing Faith” is featured on more than 100 stations in the U.S. and around the world.
All this raises an immediate question. If the Faith Movement is unbiblical as its critics maintain, why has it been so successful? The reasons are varied, including well-liked, charismatic leaders, an outward appearance of great success, and blessing by God – and faithful followers. But the Faith message of health, success, and wealth is also what many people wish to believe. As Michael Horton, editor of The Agony of Deceit, a critique of the Faith Movement, observes, “It is appropriate that a prosperity gospel be born in the hedonistic, self-centered, get-rich-quick, milieu of modern American society. We are, by nature, pagan. Either our religion will transform us or we will transform our religion to suit our sympathies.” Nevertheless, the great influence of the Faith Movement is why Christian leaders everywhere are concerned.
(from The Facts On The Faith Movement by John Ankerberg and John Weldon)
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
The Basic Teachings of the Faith Movement
The “Faith” Movement believes that the human mind and tongue contain a supernatural ability or power. When a person speaks expressing his faith in supposedly divine laws, his positive thoughts and positive verbal expression allegedly produce a “divine force” that will heal, produce wealth, bring success, and in other ways, influence the environment. Kenneth Copeland teaches that “the powerful force of the spiritual world that creates the circumstances around us is controlled by the words of the mouth. This force comes from inside us.” Thus, “There is nothing in this earth so great or powerful…that it cannot be controlled by the tongue…You can even control Satan by learning to control your own tongue.” According to the “Faith” teachers, God automatically responds and accomplishes what we command when we positively confess our needs and desires in faith.
This is why Christians must allegedly learn to operate their inner man or “spirit man” in the power of the spirit world through supernatural laws, laws that will operate for anyone, whether believer or unbeliever.
As Charles Capps observes, “Words are the most powerful thing in the universe”; “This is not theory. It is fact. It is spiritual law”; and “These principles of faith are based on spiritual laws. They work for whoever will apply these laws. You set them in motion by the words of your mouth. Unless Christians abide by and operate such laws successfully, God Himself is hindered in His ability to act in their lives. Why? Because both God and Christians are bound by these laws. As Fred K.C. Price and others teach, just as God’s own power originates in the faith He exercises in His spoken words, so this is true for Christians. For example, “God created the universe by the methods you have just put into motion by the words of your mouth. God released His faith in words.”
What this means is that both man and God are limited in their ability to act supernaturally unless the proper Faith formulas are spoken that permit their power to operate. Only when men and women initiate God and His laws can they perform miracles.
For example, “God created the universe by speaking it into existence. He has given that same ability to you in word form.” Thus, God is a “word faith” God who created man in His image and gave him the potential to use the power that He displayed in creation. “Man is a spirit then, very capable of operating on the same level of faith as God.” As a result, “you have the power of God at your disposal.” All this explains why most Faith teachers think that man is a literal god – in the words of Copeland, a being “in the God class.” By imitating God’s use of cosmic laws, man can perform supernatural acts just as God does.
But Faith teachers also claim there is a danger in all this. These cosmic laws work indiscriminately. If Christians are not careful, Satan can deceive them because he, too, can operate by using the tongues of men in the god-class. For example, “Negative Confession” – anything spoken forth denying the principles of the Faith Movement – allows Satan to enter the lives of Christians and deceive them.
In any case, even the mission of Christ Himself is appropriated to the Faith philosophy. Why did Jesus come? According to the Faith Movement, one reason Jesus came was to make us strong “Faith Christians” who could do the things He did – and much greater things. Jesus came into this world because of the power of God’s spoken word and because of God’s “faith in his faith.” In fact, Jesus was the epitome of the true “Faith” man. He knew how to perfectly use the spiritual laws of the universe and therefore had tremendous powers and did incredible miracles. Thus, Jesus was an example of the Successful Man. Robert Tilton teaches “Jesus came to deliver humanity from failure, and to bring us into success.” And “God created man to be successful, but man failed … So God sent Jesus to recover us from failure and to restore us to that position of being successful… [Because of our failure] God came up with another plan. That plan was to send Jesus. Through Jesus, we were given the strength and power to be successful…”
In Commanding Power, Kenneth Hagen, Jr., teaches that the atonement of Christ brought Christians “commanding power” or the ability to command things around us to conform to our desires. “Our problem is that we’ve been doing a lot of praying and a lot of confessing, but we haven’t been doing any commanding. It is fun to command! … Jesus already paid the price for us to do it…”
Further, on the cross and in hell, Jesus not only defeated Satan and bore the penalty of sin, but He also bore the curse of the law (Galations 3:13) which paid the penalty for our disease, poverty, and illness so that no Christian need experience these.
What this means is that for the Faith Movement Jesus is not merely our Saviour from sin. He is the Redeemer of our faith, the perfect example of “Faith principles” in action. As “little Christs” and “little gods,” we are to be imitators of Him.
Now consider again what you have read, and ask yourself this question: If the Faith Movement has an unorthodox view of God, Jesus, faith, salvation, the Bible, sanctification, man, angels, etc., can it logically be considered orthodox Christianity? Further, if the Faith Movement is not orthodox, how can Christians logically justify their participation in it?
(from The Facts On The Faith Movement by John Ankerberg and John Weldon)
This is why Christians must allegedly learn to operate their inner man or “spirit man” in the power of the spirit world through supernatural laws, laws that will operate for anyone, whether believer or unbeliever.
As Charles Capps observes, “Words are the most powerful thing in the universe”; “This is not theory. It is fact. It is spiritual law”; and “These principles of faith are based on spiritual laws. They work for whoever will apply these laws. You set them in motion by the words of your mouth. Unless Christians abide by and operate such laws successfully, God Himself is hindered in His ability to act in their lives. Why? Because both God and Christians are bound by these laws. As Fred K.C. Price and others teach, just as God’s own power originates in the faith He exercises in His spoken words, so this is true for Christians. For example, “God created the universe by the methods you have just put into motion by the words of your mouth. God released His faith in words.”
What this means is that both man and God are limited in their ability to act supernaturally unless the proper Faith formulas are spoken that permit their power to operate. Only when men and women initiate God and His laws can they perform miracles.
For example, “God created the universe by speaking it into existence. He has given that same ability to you in word form.” Thus, God is a “word faith” God who created man in His image and gave him the potential to use the power that He displayed in creation. “Man is a spirit then, very capable of operating on the same level of faith as God.” As a result, “you have the power of God at your disposal.” All this explains why most Faith teachers think that man is a literal god – in the words of Copeland, a being “in the God class.” By imitating God’s use of cosmic laws, man can perform supernatural acts just as God does.
But Faith teachers also claim there is a danger in all this. These cosmic laws work indiscriminately. If Christians are not careful, Satan can deceive them because he, too, can operate by using the tongues of men in the god-class. For example, “Negative Confession” – anything spoken forth denying the principles of the Faith Movement – allows Satan to enter the lives of Christians and deceive them.
In any case, even the mission of Christ Himself is appropriated to the Faith philosophy. Why did Jesus come? According to the Faith Movement, one reason Jesus came was to make us strong “Faith Christians” who could do the things He did – and much greater things. Jesus came into this world because of the power of God’s spoken word and because of God’s “faith in his faith.” In fact, Jesus was the epitome of the true “Faith” man. He knew how to perfectly use the spiritual laws of the universe and therefore had tremendous powers and did incredible miracles. Thus, Jesus was an example of the Successful Man. Robert Tilton teaches “Jesus came to deliver humanity from failure, and to bring us into success.” And “God created man to be successful, but man failed … So God sent Jesus to recover us from failure and to restore us to that position of being successful… [Because of our failure] God came up with another plan. That plan was to send Jesus. Through Jesus, we were given the strength and power to be successful…”
In Commanding Power, Kenneth Hagen, Jr., teaches that the atonement of Christ brought Christians “commanding power” or the ability to command things around us to conform to our desires. “Our problem is that we’ve been doing a lot of praying and a lot of confessing, but we haven’t been doing any commanding. It is fun to command! … Jesus already paid the price for us to do it…”
Further, on the cross and in hell, Jesus not only defeated Satan and bore the penalty of sin, but He also bore the curse of the law (Galations 3:13) which paid the penalty for our disease, poverty, and illness so that no Christian need experience these.
What this means is that for the Faith Movement Jesus is not merely our Saviour from sin. He is the Redeemer of our faith, the perfect example of “Faith principles” in action. As “little Christs” and “little gods,” we are to be imitators of Him.
Now consider again what you have read, and ask yourself this question: If the Faith Movement has an unorthodox view of God, Jesus, faith, salvation, the Bible, sanctification, man, angels, etc., can it logically be considered orthodox Christianity? Further, if the Faith Movement is not orthodox, how can Christians logically justify their participation in it?
(from The Facts On The Faith Movement by John Ankerberg and John Weldon)
Monday, September 8, 2008
Christianity In Crisis CD's
When the book Christianity In Crisis was released, it instantly became a best-seller. The vast majority expressed appreciation for this landmark work -- yet some found it difficult to accept that anyone within the body of Christ could make the bizarre and blasphemous statements documented in the book. Frequently, they said, "Until I hear it with my own ears, I will not believe it!"
And that is precisely why these audio tapes were produced. Hear Kenneth Hagin, Kenneth Copeland, Benny Hinn, Frederick Price, Morris Cerullo, and others define and defend doctrines that have systematically obliterated the essentials of the Christian faith.
Listen as the faith teachers speak for themselves and then you decide.
Hank Hanegraaff -- host of the Bible Answer Man radio broadcast and President of the world-renowned Christian Research Institute International is heard daily throughout the USA and Canada.
If you are involved with the Faith Movement or any church or organization that teaches the health and wealth gospel or that Christ died for anything other than our sins, you need to listen to these CD's. The two CD set can be purchased at http://www.equip.org/.
And that is precisely why these audio tapes were produced. Hear Kenneth Hagin, Kenneth Copeland, Benny Hinn, Frederick Price, Morris Cerullo, and others define and defend doctrines that have systematically obliterated the essentials of the Christian faith.
Listen as the faith teachers speak for themselves and then you decide.
Hank Hanegraaff -- host of the Bible Answer Man radio broadcast and President of the world-renowned Christian Research Institute International is heard daily throughout the USA and Canada.
If you are involved with the Faith Movement or any church or organization that teaches the health and wealth gospel or that Christ died for anything other than our sins, you need to listen to these CD's. The two CD set can be purchased at http://www.equip.org/.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Benny Hinn and His Annointing
If you are a follower of Benny Hinn, you should view this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uk-J6-uhA8Y
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uk-J6-uhA8Y
Friday, September 5, 2008
Where Will You Spend Eternity?
"Well," you ask,
"how would I know?"
Thank God, according to the Bible, not only can you know, but you can choose where you will spend eternity.
Now we all believe -- or at least most claim to believe -- in the Bible as God's Word. We believe in eternity and know that life is short. The Bible itself asks, "What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" (James 4:14).
Many claim to believe in heaven and hell, yet, unfortunately, show little concern over their eternal destiny. We are far more concerned about this life than the next, yet we know that eternity is endless. The Word of God describes eternity as being "forever and ever" (Revelation 22:5).
Just think ... an eternity to be spent forever, either in the perfect paradise called heaven or in the terrible torments of hell.
Surely we'll agree that it is just good sense to prepare for eternity now, before it is forever too late. God says, "man is destined to die once and after that to face judgment" (Hebrews 9:27).
"Well," you say, "I believe in God, go to church, and live the best I can. What else can I do?"
Now believing in God, attending church, and doing one's best are all admirable; yet, according to the Word of God, the Holy Bible, these cannot get us to heaven. Neither, according to God, can our church membership, baptism, confirmation, nor our good deeds attain for us eternal life.
But God has provided an answer to the matter of life and death, heaven and hell. It is an answer so simple, it frequently is overlooked.
A religious leader named Nicodemus came to Jesus one night for help. Jesus told him, "You must be born again," and expanded this to include all of us by stating quite emphatically, "I tell you the truth unless a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3). Pretty dogmatic perhaps, but these are the words of Christ Himself.
Some today, like Nicodemus, will ask, "How can a man be born when he is old? Surely he cannot enter for a second time into his mother's womb to be born!" (John 3:4). But Jesus answers, "Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the spirit gives birth to spirit" (John 3:6), stating again that one must experience a spiritual rebirth in order to enter heaven -- "You must be born again" (John 3:7).
Now, have you been born again? Have you experienced this spiritual rebirth? This is the one thing, according to the Bible, that will determine your eternal destiny.
So for those who really want to know how to be born again, here is the answer from God's Word.
We must recognize that we are sinners, that we've all violated God's laws. The Bible says, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God ... There is no one righteous, not even one ... There is not a righteous man on earth who does what is right and never sins ... If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us ... If we claim we have not sinned, we make Him out to be a liar and His Word has no place in our lives" (Romans 3:23, 10; Ecclesiastes 7:20; 1 John 1:8, 10).
We must repent of our sins. The Bible says that God "commands all people everywhere to repent" (Acts 17:30). Jesus said, "unless you repent, you too will all perish" (Luke 13:3). And it is not so difficult to repent as we pause to think of what our sins have cost God. It was for our sins that God, the Creator and King of this universe, left His home in heaven and came to earth in the Person of Jesus to suffer and bleed and die -- that we might be forgiven. "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down His life for us" (1 John 3:16). Then Jesus rose from the dead, proving His victory over sin and death.
We must receive Christ into our hearts and lives as our Saviour. We read in the first chapter of John, speaking of the Lord Jesus, "He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him. He came to that which was His own, but His own did not receive Him. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God" (John 1:10-12).
The moment we open our hearts to the Lord Jesus and place our complete trust in Him -- and Him alone -- as our Saviour, God promises to forgive our sins, save our soul, and reserve for us a home in heaven. Then, on the authority of the Word of God, we can know where we'll spend eternity. God says, "I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life" (1 John 5:13). And Jesus promises, "whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life" (John 5:24).
Now, are you willing to settle the matter of your eternal destiny? Will you do it? You can, right this moment. I sincerely hope that you will.
If you are concerned about eternity and are willing to repent of your sins and receive Jesus Christ as your Saviour and if you have trusted Christ as your personal Saviour as a result of reading this, and you want further help in the decision you have made or if you have more questions about the Christian faith, please contact us by e-mail or visit http://www.emmanuelbarrie.org..
"how would I know?"
Thank God, according to the Bible, not only can you know, but you can choose where you will spend eternity.
Now we all believe -- or at least most claim to believe -- in the Bible as God's Word. We believe in eternity and know that life is short. The Bible itself asks, "What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" (James 4:14).
Many claim to believe in heaven and hell, yet, unfortunately, show little concern over their eternal destiny. We are far more concerned about this life than the next, yet we know that eternity is endless. The Word of God describes eternity as being "forever and ever" (Revelation 22:5).
Just think ... an eternity to be spent forever, either in the perfect paradise called heaven or in the terrible torments of hell.
Surely we'll agree that it is just good sense to prepare for eternity now, before it is forever too late. God says, "man is destined to die once and after that to face judgment" (Hebrews 9:27).
"Well," you say, "I believe in God, go to church, and live the best I can. What else can I do?"
Now believing in God, attending church, and doing one's best are all admirable; yet, according to the Word of God, the Holy Bible, these cannot get us to heaven. Neither, according to God, can our church membership, baptism, confirmation, nor our good deeds attain for us eternal life.
But God has provided an answer to the matter of life and death, heaven and hell. It is an answer so simple, it frequently is overlooked.
A religious leader named Nicodemus came to Jesus one night for help. Jesus told him, "You must be born again," and expanded this to include all of us by stating quite emphatically, "I tell you the truth unless a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3). Pretty dogmatic perhaps, but these are the words of Christ Himself.
Some today, like Nicodemus, will ask, "How can a man be born when he is old? Surely he cannot enter for a second time into his mother's womb to be born!" (John 3:4). But Jesus answers, "Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the spirit gives birth to spirit" (John 3:6), stating again that one must experience a spiritual rebirth in order to enter heaven -- "You must be born again" (John 3:7).
Now, have you been born again? Have you experienced this spiritual rebirth? This is the one thing, according to the Bible, that will determine your eternal destiny.
So for those who really want to know how to be born again, here is the answer from God's Word.
We must recognize that we are sinners, that we've all violated God's laws. The Bible says, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God ... There is no one righteous, not even one ... There is not a righteous man on earth who does what is right and never sins ... If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us ... If we claim we have not sinned, we make Him out to be a liar and His Word has no place in our lives" (Romans 3:23, 10; Ecclesiastes 7:20; 1 John 1:8, 10).
We must repent of our sins. The Bible says that God "commands all people everywhere to repent" (Acts 17:30). Jesus said, "unless you repent, you too will all perish" (Luke 13:3). And it is not so difficult to repent as we pause to think of what our sins have cost God. It was for our sins that God, the Creator and King of this universe, left His home in heaven and came to earth in the Person of Jesus to suffer and bleed and die -- that we might be forgiven. "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down His life for us" (1 John 3:16). Then Jesus rose from the dead, proving His victory over sin and death.
We must receive Christ into our hearts and lives as our Saviour. We read in the first chapter of John, speaking of the Lord Jesus, "He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him. He came to that which was His own, but His own did not receive Him. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God" (John 1:10-12).
The moment we open our hearts to the Lord Jesus and place our complete trust in Him -- and Him alone -- as our Saviour, God promises to forgive our sins, save our soul, and reserve for us a home in heaven. Then, on the authority of the Word of God, we can know where we'll spend eternity. God says, "I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life" (1 John 5:13). And Jesus promises, "whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life" (John 5:24).
Now, are you willing to settle the matter of your eternal destiny? Will you do it? You can, right this moment. I sincerely hope that you will.
If you are concerned about eternity and are willing to repent of your sins and receive Jesus Christ as your Saviour and if you have trusted Christ as your personal Saviour as a result of reading this, and you want further help in the decision you have made or if you have more questions about the Christian faith, please contact us by e-mail or visit http://www.emmanuelbarrie.org..
(by Arthur DeMoss)
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Labeling
Toxic Characteristic #10
The technique of labeling is used to discount a person who opposes the beliefs of the religious addict. Labeling attempts to dehumanize critics so that dismissing them or their opinions becomes much easier. The religious addict chooses not to address a critic individually but places a negative label on all who would disagree with his or her personal habits. Rather than say that John Smith has asked some questions, the addict proclaims that there are “detractors,” “traitors,” or “malcontents” who would destroy the ministry or organization. The labels become rallying points used to squelch a revolt. Once the label is in place, it becomes more difficult to see that person as a human with real needs and the potential for good judgment.
John had been with the church since the beginning, and all ran smoothly until he began to disagree with the pastor about certain interpretations and applications of Scripture. Suddenly, although John had faithfully taught Sunday School for years, he was labeled a troublemaker.
The pastor determined that John had gone too far and was trying to undermine the ministry. The pastor immediately called John at his place of work and informed him that he was no longer going to be allowed to teach. Neither was he welcome at church anymore. He was a traitor and needed to repent of his rebellious spirit.
From the pulpit the pastor preached on how a little leaven spoils the lump and how the congregation needed to expel those who would corrupt them. In an instant, John and his family were no longer friends of those with whom they had fellow shipped for years. They were “traitors” who had “betrayed” the pastor and therefore needed to be expelled. Yet what John had done was to simply disagree with authority.
This nasty turn of events devastated John and his family. Their lives had revolved around the church for so long that they had cultivated very few friends outside the church. Rejected and abandoned by those they had trusted and cared for, John’s family felt broken and in pain because the system could not tolerate difference. This toxic faith enabled the delusion that each person has a right to his or her own relationship to God – as long as it lines up with the system. By labeling John and persuading other church members to believe that label, the insecure pastor was able to avoid dealing with disagreement.
The military uses labeling to enhance the “killability” of the enemy. The last thing a military leader wants a soldier to think about is that the person in his rifle’s sights may be a father of five little girls who will starve without a daddy. The enemy is given an ethnic label in an effort to dehumanize him. The soldier is better able to kill one hundred of them than one father or husband.
Religious addicts use the technique well, and when they use rumour and innuendo to kill the reputation of a sincere critic other followers are more apt to go along if a label can dehumanize the dissenter.
The purpose of labeling is to separate and divide. In our society, someone who has conservative beliefs is labeled a fundamentalist. The label no longer describes the approach by which that person evaluates life; it now describes the person. Someone who considers fundamentalist views to be narrow focuses on the holder of those views and labels him narrow-minded. The approach is transferred to the person’s individuality. The person is shamed and demeaned for beliefs that have little to do with the person’s value or unique gifts from God. Disqualification by labeling hurts the victims and allows persecutors to continue in their toxic faith. It is sheer poison.
Because it is difficult to rally against rational-thinking people who have distinctly different views, labels must be used to polarize the opponents and energize the followers to fight those opponents. The enemy is disqualified so the difficult issue underlying the enemy can be avoided. The potential to find truth in the opposition’s argument is destroyed when labels are used. Who wants to listen to a narrow-minded bigot? Since a narrow-minded person challenging your position is of no consequence, that person is eliminated as a competent opponent.
Labeling discounts and dismisses the opposition and establishes the superiority of religious addicts. It does not invite the exploration of the beliefs of others; it reduces them to objects of scorn. Labeling becomes the perfect weapon to attack the enemy or defend the toxic-faith system, its beliefs, and addictive practices. Labeling allows religious addicts to define truth, uphold that truth as defined, and destroy anyone who would dare to question that truth.
Hope for Change
Knowing the characteristics of a toxic-faith system enables individuals to evaluate the characteristics of their church or organization. When members of toxic faith systems identify them as such there is hope that multiple generations of abuse will discontinue.
At last, followers can see and feel manipulation by religious addicts. The persecution will stop when they refuse to be victimized. When many victims move away from the system, the toxic leader may be forced to become accountable while other addicts may recognize the reality of their compulsions. This may force religious addicts back into a real relationship with God, free of ego, manipulation, and the victimizing of those outside the system.
(From Chapter Six of Toxic Faith)
The technique of labeling is used to discount a person who opposes the beliefs of the religious addict. Labeling attempts to dehumanize critics so that dismissing them or their opinions becomes much easier. The religious addict chooses not to address a critic individually but places a negative label on all who would disagree with his or her personal habits. Rather than say that John Smith has asked some questions, the addict proclaims that there are “detractors,” “traitors,” or “malcontents” who would destroy the ministry or organization. The labels become rallying points used to squelch a revolt. Once the label is in place, it becomes more difficult to see that person as a human with real needs and the potential for good judgment.
John had been with the church since the beginning, and all ran smoothly until he began to disagree with the pastor about certain interpretations and applications of Scripture. Suddenly, although John had faithfully taught Sunday School for years, he was labeled a troublemaker.
The pastor determined that John had gone too far and was trying to undermine the ministry. The pastor immediately called John at his place of work and informed him that he was no longer going to be allowed to teach. Neither was he welcome at church anymore. He was a traitor and needed to repent of his rebellious spirit.
From the pulpit the pastor preached on how a little leaven spoils the lump and how the congregation needed to expel those who would corrupt them. In an instant, John and his family were no longer friends of those with whom they had fellow shipped for years. They were “traitors” who had “betrayed” the pastor and therefore needed to be expelled. Yet what John had done was to simply disagree with authority.
This nasty turn of events devastated John and his family. Their lives had revolved around the church for so long that they had cultivated very few friends outside the church. Rejected and abandoned by those they had trusted and cared for, John’s family felt broken and in pain because the system could not tolerate difference. This toxic faith enabled the delusion that each person has a right to his or her own relationship to God – as long as it lines up with the system. By labeling John and persuading other church members to believe that label, the insecure pastor was able to avoid dealing with disagreement.
The military uses labeling to enhance the “killability” of the enemy. The last thing a military leader wants a soldier to think about is that the person in his rifle’s sights may be a father of five little girls who will starve without a daddy. The enemy is given an ethnic label in an effort to dehumanize him. The soldier is better able to kill one hundred of them than one father or husband.
Religious addicts use the technique well, and when they use rumour and innuendo to kill the reputation of a sincere critic other followers are more apt to go along if a label can dehumanize the dissenter.
The purpose of labeling is to separate and divide. In our society, someone who has conservative beliefs is labeled a fundamentalist. The label no longer describes the approach by which that person evaluates life; it now describes the person. Someone who considers fundamentalist views to be narrow focuses on the holder of those views and labels him narrow-minded. The approach is transferred to the person’s individuality. The person is shamed and demeaned for beliefs that have little to do with the person’s value or unique gifts from God. Disqualification by labeling hurts the victims and allows persecutors to continue in their toxic faith. It is sheer poison.
Because it is difficult to rally against rational-thinking people who have distinctly different views, labels must be used to polarize the opponents and energize the followers to fight those opponents. The enemy is disqualified so the difficult issue underlying the enemy can be avoided. The potential to find truth in the opposition’s argument is destroyed when labels are used. Who wants to listen to a narrow-minded bigot? Since a narrow-minded person challenging your position is of no consequence, that person is eliminated as a competent opponent.
Labeling discounts and dismisses the opposition and establishes the superiority of religious addicts. It does not invite the exploration of the beliefs of others; it reduces them to objects of scorn. Labeling becomes the perfect weapon to attack the enemy or defend the toxic-faith system, its beliefs, and addictive practices. Labeling allows religious addicts to define truth, uphold that truth as defined, and destroy anyone who would dare to question that truth.
Hope for Change
Knowing the characteristics of a toxic-faith system enables individuals to evaluate the characteristics of their church or organization. When members of toxic faith systems identify them as such there is hope that multiple generations of abuse will discontinue.
At last, followers can see and feel manipulation by religious addicts. The persecution will stop when they refuse to be victimized. When many victims move away from the system, the toxic leader may be forced to become accountable while other addicts may recognize the reality of their compulsions. This may force religious addicts back into a real relationship with God, free of ego, manipulation, and the victimizing of those outside the system.
(From Chapter Six of Toxic Faith)
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
No Objective Accountability
Toxic Characteristic #9
Religious addicts lack objective accountability. Lack of objective accountability is a central theme for all areas of toxic faith. If religious addicts entered into healthy, accountable relationships with others, toxic faith could not flourish. Anyone who claims to be so tied into God that he or she does not need to be tied into people is a religious addict guaranteed to fail in faith and in ministering to the needs of others. God never intended for anyone to be so focused on Him that they had no need to stay connected with people. No one’s faith can be free of accountability to others. Lack of accountability is a clear sign of lack of faith in God and the presence of a faith in self.
When toxic-faith practices come under scrutiny, the religious addict reacts predictably: “I am accountable only to God.” No-one is accountable only to God. We are all accountable to the government, a married person is accountable to a spouse, anyone asserting accountability to God alone either is not thinking clearly or has a terrible sin to hide. When a religious addict makes such an assertion, followers should clear out of that ministry if change is not immediately implemented. A person accountable only to God is a person out of control.
Under the reign of a toxic-faith leader operating without accountability, religious addicts also tend to avoid accountability. They become little generals in a toxic army that they claim no one outside the organization can understand. This cuts off all others and arms them with the right to do as they please. These little generals follow orders from their leader, believing they are on a mission from God, and refuse to listen to any input from outside.
Severing accountability eliminates much of the possibility of turning toxic believers away from the organization and back to a true faith in God. They continue as part of the system and at times are driven into total disbelief in God.
(from Toxic Faith, Chapter 6)
Religious addicts lack objective accountability. Lack of objective accountability is a central theme for all areas of toxic faith. If religious addicts entered into healthy, accountable relationships with others, toxic faith could not flourish. Anyone who claims to be so tied into God that he or she does not need to be tied into people is a religious addict guaranteed to fail in faith and in ministering to the needs of others. God never intended for anyone to be so focused on Him that they had no need to stay connected with people. No one’s faith can be free of accountability to others. Lack of accountability is a clear sign of lack of faith in God and the presence of a faith in self.
When toxic-faith practices come under scrutiny, the religious addict reacts predictably: “I am accountable only to God.” No-one is accountable only to God. We are all accountable to the government, a married person is accountable to a spouse, anyone asserting accountability to God alone either is not thinking clearly or has a terrible sin to hide. When a religious addict makes such an assertion, followers should clear out of that ministry if change is not immediately implemented. A person accountable only to God is a person out of control.
Under the reign of a toxic-faith leader operating without accountability, religious addicts also tend to avoid accountability. They become little generals in a toxic army that they claim no one outside the organization can understand. This cuts off all others and arms them with the right to do as they please. These little generals follow orders from their leader, believing they are on a mission from God, and refuse to listen to any input from outside.
Severing accountability eliminates much of the possibility of turning toxic believers away from the organization and back to a true faith in God. They continue as part of the system and at times are driven into total disbelief in God.
(from Toxic Faith, Chapter 6)
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