The Pursuit of God - Articles - Zimbio

Interesting, thoughtful and smart insight on Todd Bentley and leaders who fail

Wed, 11 Sep 2008 03:58:40 GMT

posted by r180

In respect to Todd Bentley & leaders who crumble

Fri, Sep 2008 06:33 | Permalink

September 5, 2008
……Since I wrote the book, Shifting Shadows of Supernatural Power, that focuses on discerning what is true anointing and who are true power brokers, healers and prophets, people have been asking me what I think of the Lakeland Revival and how it ended with Todd’s crumbling into his own unhealed brokenness. I took a peak at what I wrote in my book and in a previous blog about Todd (“The Glory of God at Lakeland” on http://juliascribe.blogspot.com) and, wow! I think I might have been prophetic! Or maybe its just my counselor training discerning what lies in the hearts of us all.
Here is what I think in a nutshell:
We have this all surpassing power flowing into us, little earthen vessels, and we are bound to crack and leak under prolonged pressure for all to see. We also need to become better stewards of our leaders. And God’s glory will shine through anyone’s darkness…including yours.
Here are the questions I am receiving and will address in the rest of this blog:
1) Was Todd Bentley operating in God’s power or is he a charlatan? What are the marks of God’s true power?
2) Did the “apostolic” leaders make a mistake by endorsing and commissioning Todd?
3) How should we respond?
Todd- Charlatan or the real deal?
How would you handle masses of people coming to pull on you for the healing they desperately need? I know that I, for one, couldn’t sustain that. Not without help. Not without a strong mandate and anointing from God. Not without others coming alongside of me to support me, to step onto the platform and push me aside when I got too full of myself or too tired, friends who would take over, and let the purity of God’s presence minister to the masses as well as myself. Because if there is one thing I have witnessed through the years it is this – God will meet the desperate and the hungry and the pilgrim who travels far to meet with Him regardless of who or what the man or the woman on the platform of ministry is doing. Our loving Father RUSHES to meet us!
Because God rushes to meet us and responds to our faith, many of the healings experienced in Lakeland during the revival were very, very real. And the God-encounters were genuine. Todd is not a charlatan. He is just a man. Like you or me…fully human, not divine. And God’s glory revealed and power manifested did not depend solely on Todd.
The days of the solo minister facilitating a revival are over. We need each other’s gift mix on the platform. Randy Clark understands this best and as one who has a genuine healing anointing, should probably been the one to work with Todd and ensure an ongoing revival. And in fact, I wonder if the healing anointing wasn’t just residing in Steven Strader’s church because that is where I felt God’s presence most strongly during the morning services I attended and it didn’t matter who was speaking and ministering – God was there. Here’s a thought – perhaps Steven Strader was supposed to steward this revival – not Todd.
Leaders like Todd crumble when they start thinking they are the only one who can facilitate a revival because the anointing depends on them…not on God.
Eventually, as we stumble over ourselves on the road to maturity and wholeness, we realize that there are three sources of power that we are all open to – the Holy Spirit, the demonic and our own soulish power. At some point in our lives, we have all been influenced by one of those three sources and spoken or ministered out of the wrong spirit. Todd is no exception & neither are you nor I.
Here is what I wrote in my book about those sources:
“Anyone moving in revelatory, supernatural power will become like the one they behold. The more surrendered a person becomes to the source of the power, the more purely it reveals itself. Testimonies included later in this book reveal that one given over to the demonic will receive and express increasingly destructive power resulting in personalities that fragment under the weight of oppression. One given over to the Holy Spirit will receive and express increasingly authentic power resulting in a personality and life characterized by love, peace, and joy. Soulish power is merely a mixture of shadows originating in a person’s mind.
There are specific marks that characterize the origins or source of supernatural power expressed through individuals. Richard Foster, details seven marks of God’s authentic power in his book The Challenge of the Disciplined Life. They include: love, humility, restraint, joy, vulnerability, submission, and freedom from control.
If that is to be our guide for discerning the source of God’s power, then the marks of power that proceed from the occult and demonic realm would involve the exact opposite characteristics. They would include: hate, pride, unbridled displays of power, depression, jealousy, inability to relate to others or allow others to speak into their lives, and a desire to control others.
Soulish power—that which originates from a person’s state of mind and heart—expresses itself with a variety of mixed markers. Unhealed, unaffirmed people tend to exercise their soulish power to manipulate people and events to compensate for an overwhelming sense of their own powerlessness. Because they have no strong sense of identity or core self rooted in relationship with Jesus Christ, they attempt to acquire an external derivation of significance. As a result, when they express the spiritual gifts, the recipients may feel tainted by the residue of soulish imprints. One receiving a prophetic word originating in another’s soul power may feel more like the word is mere manipulation or flattery, a put down or a power trip. The laying on of hands for healing may also feel like a power trip drawing attention not to the healing power and presence of Jesus Christ and His atonement, but to the presence of the one praying.
For some, expressing soulish power is part of the process of normal spiritual growth and personal healing. A healthy process leads them to become secure in setting boundaries with others rather than attempting to control others and involves repeated encounters with the healing presence of Jesus Christ. An unhealthy process drives them into the occult realm and their minds become playgrounds for the antics of the demonic.
Attempts to harness and express power that originate in the soul are but one extreme. The other extreme involves those who seek power based on narcissistic desire. To obtain spiritual power for the glorification of self is to align oneself with the demonic. Lucifer is the ultimate narcissist.
The marks of power that come from God are the marks of a healthy personality as well as a mature Christian who is secure in God’s love. When authentic power works deeply in the lives of individuals releasing healing into their wounds, they can release it more purely to others through words of knowledge, prophesies, miracles, and healings that relate the heart of a loving God. Since most of us need progressive healing and sanctification and are not free from expressions of hate, pride, jealousy, and depression how can we determine the origins of power that flow through mere humans?
First, we need to recognize that soul power is not entirely bad. Our life experiences (good and bad), personalities and giftedness are given to us for a reason—to co-labor with God as we enter into our destinies. God gives us a vision but we have a role to play in working that out. Soul power rooted in God’s love and understanding of the particular destiny and vision given to each individual, tempers our human nature on any given bad day. Soul power, working under submission to God’s power, also gets the work done. We release the power of God through our soul, or mindful action, and the marks of power will correspondingly bear the marks of our personality. God, having given you a unique personality, loves the way you express Him.
Second, no matter what our state of heart and mind, our level of maturity or brokenness, the imprint of soulish origins fades when overshadowed by the anointing of the Holy Spirit. God’s loving presence can move through the youngest child or most immature and unhealed adult to accomplish His will. His power is made perfect in our weakness.”
We all minister in God’s anointing and fall back into our soulish state of mind. Think about it – one minute you’re ministering to someone at work and the next minute you are cussing out your computer. Oooooh…yech…. I believe that Todd has exhibited a genuine anointing at times and that he has not yet come into the fullness of the measure of Christ that will be given him – after he takes some time to submit to a healing process & realizes that he should always partner with other ministers.
__________
How can leaders become influenced by the wrong spirit?
It is quite possible that the weight of glory and demands of people brought Todd to the brink of burnout. It is also quite possible that we all failed Todd – it wasn’t Todd that failed us.
I watched as leaders, one by one, sat on the platform enjoying the visibility afforded them by international television broadcasts. Were any speaking into his life or ministering to Todd? Or were they all needing Todd to minister to them; to infuse them with a fresh jolt of the Holy Ghost? Are all the older, more seasoned, current ministry leaders who have some degree of visibility so busy or tired and burned out that they failed Todd? Or was Todd becoming so enamored with the limelight that he failed to listen and receive them? I venture a guess that it was a little of both. And by the way, where were your prayers for Todd?
How can leaders come under the influence of the demonic or start moving out of their own soulish power? When you are tired, you trip over your own feet. Couple that exhaustion with undealt with emotions, memories and traumas; not taking time to heal from the fragmented and unhealthy family upbringing; and not having mothers and fathers in the faith come alongside of you BEFORE you burnout…and you’re in trouble. It doesn’t mean that you are a charlatan – it means that you are human…and perhaps just a little cracked pot in the midst of a pressure cooker. It doesn’t mean that you are an imposter – it means that you are a little boy or girl clomping around in your daddy’s shoes not quite all grown up, or healed up. But our Father in heaven’s intensely, loving eyes hold our gaze and we come to understand that He delights in us still. Just because you need healing doesn’t mean that you are a false prophet or healer; or an illigitimate son or daughter of the King. It means that you are growing from healing to wholeness; from glory to glory.
Some of the most famous revivalists and church leaders in the past and in the present have struggled with wandering off sexually, depression, insomnia born of anxiety that led them to take drugs, bi-polar episodes, rage issues, and other mental illnesses that often went undiagnosed. The presence and power of God flowed through them and resulted in undeniable miracles. Some of these leaders ended badly or died early because there was no team approach to ministry and no one wanted to “touch the anointing” when that leader desperately needed to be touched by the hand of reason, step aside, rest and get restored until they were grounded enough to continue the work of the ministry. They moved in God’s anointing, tripped over their brokenness and ended up moving in soulish power or demonic power. I an not saying that Todd struggles with mental illness. I am saying that we need to recognize when we are headed for disaster and take time out & the church needs to value the leaders enough to let them rest. No matter how grounded and stable we are, we all need others to speak into our lives and listen to them when they call, “Time out!”
Let’s look at what one seasoned prophet had to say in my book about getting into a mess in public ministry:
“The problem with power that originates in the soul—tainted with undealt with emotions, memories, and traumas—is that it gets in the way of hearing the true voice of the Lord. John Sandford speaks about this jamming of our wavelengths in the Elijah Task: “God will never speak falsely but because of who we are we will hear wrongly…both flesh and satan attack one who draws near to God. Few of us enjoy the honeymoon of God’s love long before the flesh and the enemy begins to jam our wavelengths.”
Sandford knows from personal experience that no one will graduate from the Lord’s school of listening with his pride intact. Most budding prophets and revelatory people will end up looking like a fool but it does not make them a false prophet. The pressures on Sandford as a young pastor at the beginning of his prophetic ministry, coupled with exhaustion, resulted in a strong spiritual delusion. During a progressive series of visions he became completely convinced that God had revealed the exact time of the rapture. It was to occur the afternoon of the day he was preaching at a ministry school involving Agnes Sandford. Agnes, a true mother in the prophetic, promptly urged him to stop talking and sent him to bed. He woke the next day feeling more refreshed and more than a little bit embarrassed. He explained what happened:
“I became caught up in over-serious mysticism, confusing that with true faith…I became overburdened, overtired, carried away with visions and insights, and finally deluded. Satan’s delight is to come to someone who is enjoying a true spiritual experience and then help him go too far.
“I needed that strong spiritual delusion because my confidence had been in my ability to hear God, not in God’s ability to overcome my sinful heart to speak to me.
“And as I saw my idolatry more clearly, I had to die to all such seeing, and be careful not to cherish insight more than the Lord.”
________________
The psychological health of the prophet [or one in healing ministry] determines the impact of his or her state of mind or soul about the gift. A true prophet [or one in healing ministry] will bear the marks of the power of God, the nature of God, and the fruit of the Spirit over time. They will work collaboratively and in accountability to others, learning from their mistakes and growing in humility. Unhealed prophets, will bear the marks of his or her own brokenness. If the church fails to reach out to them, leaving them to smolder in despair, unrepentant sin, and brokenness, they may succumb to the influence of occult power.”
The difference between what John experienced and what Todd experienced is very different in many ways. However, John had the good fortune to be ministering with someone who had authority to speak into his life and boot him off the platform when he needed to step aside. It’s called mentoring. And the church is sadly lacking in mentors who welcome up and coming ministers onto their platforms and offer the platform as sacred training grounds where all have the freedom to fail and succeed.
Did the “apostolic” leaders make a mistake by endorsing and commissioning Todd?
I watched all these ministry leaders on television making apostolic blessings and statements that seemed to want to offer Todd some support and covering but I do not feel like I should comment on the motivations of some or the authority of others. What I did see, to my delight, was that they were finally taking time out from their lives and ministries to stand with Todd. But the gesture was too little, too late.
What we have been seeing throughout the last few decades, is the death of the “Man-of-the-Hour” ministry. The shift to networks and relationships has resulted in platform sharing of itinerant prophets and apostolic leaders and that seems really healthy on the surface. At least they are platform sharing. However, each one is still consumed with their message and ministry and mandate and apparently failing one another. They will criticize one another rather than embrace one another behind the scenes. I’ve heard them. You have, too.
When I hear people criticize others, it makes me feel like that person is not safe…regardless of the fact that they call themselves apostles or prophetic…they are not exhibiting the character of Jesus when they criticize and condemn. When I hear them say that their words are always right and its “my way or the highway”, I can see that they are headed straight into delusion and perpetuating a form of division born of grandious-delusion. None of us are immune from being critical but we must recognize that the God the Father is really, really grieved when we trash his sons and daughters.
I used to criticize and openly mock Todd’s style years ago when I was burned out and living mainly outside of the church. Then God spoke to my heart one day saying, “What if I called you to work for Todd. Would you criticize my son then?” Gulp. My attitude instantly changed from one of critic to prayer warrior – for Todd. I am praying still.
When will we learn that true brothers are ones who lay their lives (and ministries) down for one another? When one starts to burn out, we need to extend the hand of healing and the finances to support the others’ ministry while that person takes time out for rest or time out in a hospital. Whatever happened to releasing gestures of “unconditional love” that include calling someone to step aside for a rest to deal with the sin in their lives? It takes a high degree of humility and the ability to honor one another’s gifts to give and receive in that way. Several of the “apostolic leaders” who stood on the platform exhibit that humility, have called Todd to accunt in a loving, not critical or punishing way, and are ushering Todd right into the healing arms of Jesus. I have no doubt that they will cover him more completely from now on.
What Causes Burnout
It takes a higher degree of humility for a leader with significant momentum and international visability to step aside from the work of the ministry and rest before they crumble under burnout. No leader is there yet. Neither are you or me. I’d rather see the whole body of Christ allow leaders take time out for rest before they end up in a hospital. A month or two off the road and into their prayer chamber will only strengthen their gifts and increase their anointing. Yet it is not the pressures of the ministry that causes burnout. The lack of connectedness with family and others & the undermining critical, lack of support is the main cause of burnout.
Research shows that a perceived lack of support will cause someone to burnout more quickly; and if one is already fragmented by early childhood upbringing and bad daddies and distant mommies [as was the case in Todd’s upbringing] that lack of support will result in rebellion. Rebellion can be an act of crying loudly for help when you think no one cares…or an act of trying to get control over someone or something or just flat out losing control. And how did Jesus talk about a rebellious son? He told a story about a dad who ran to greet the rebel boy and that story led me to believe that the dad realized his part in his son’s rebellion and repented long before the son did. True spiritual fathers and mothers will embrace sons and daughters like Todd and run to meet them, having repented of their own lack of love and support.
Apparently, Todd has some true spiritual dads and moms stepping up to help him. And whatever is going on with Todd’s personal life is really none of my business…nor is it yours. All I know is that every one of us – no matter how mature and whole we are – cannot sustain prolonged ministry on our own. Just because someone went through a season of healing doesn’t mean they are not vulnerable. The more fragmented the upbringing, the more vulnerable you are…and most in need of having healthy people walk alongside you constantly – not intermittently.
Not one of us can go long in work or ministry without support. Rest involves reconnecting and being loved. Not one of us can go the distance without strengthening that deep, intimate connection with the Lord from time to time during a prolonged period of a Sabbath rest and restoring intimate connections with others. I know this personally. I’ve burned out before.
Research shows that once you have burned out, you are more vulnerable to burn out in the future and must learn to recognize the signs and symtoms and redirect yourself – rather than wait until its too late and have someone else embarrasingly, have to step in and redirect you.
The True Marks of God’s Power
As for the marks of true power and anointing, here is what I look for in a person and I believe that Todd, as young as he is, has exhibited some of those marks of power as well and will likely carry them all some day as he matures in life & ministry. I also believe that several people who endorsed Todd’s ministry carry those marks of true power and anointing. These are straight from Richard Foster, who details seven marks of God’s authentic power in his book The Challenge of the Disciplined Life. Read them and think about which leaders exhibit those marks on an ongoing basis. And also consider if you bear those marks as well. Jesus calls us all to take the mote out of our own eye before we try to poke someone else’s eye out…or something like that…
· Power motivated by love and compassion to release salvation, deliverance and healing;
· Power expressed with humility, deferring to one another’s gifts, willing to learn from others, aware that the gifts flow from God as He wills;
· Power expressed with restraint, not under compulsion to the needs and distractions of men or the desire to express flashy revelation or miracles that draw attention to them;
· Power expressed with joy, operating from a basis of rest rather than exhaustion which can lead to delusion, filled with the presence of the Lord;
· Power that does not dominate or control but is revealed in vulnerability rather than bravado;
· Power that is submitted in right relationship to the Lord Jesus Christ and to others;
· Power that freely gives and sets people free rather than binding them in some obligation (financial or emotional) to the minister or ministry.
How should we respond?
As a psychotherapist who has dealt with men in the military and in the ministry and many individuals in my former counseling practice, the answer is clear to me. Love and time heals all wounds – Todd’s wounds as well as your own. You may be disappointed, angry, or confused but know this - we heal more quickly if we stop looking to others and start looking up. God has not abandoned you. He has no illusions about you or Todd or anyone in ministry. His true work will survive – the rest will burn up at the end of the day. And Christ in you is the hope of glory – to be revealed both to you and through you.
This issue about the Lakeland Revival ending badly is not about your feelings about Todd. It is now about you and God.
Here is how I try to respond…and it too is straight from my book Shifting Shadows of Supernatural Power:
“The more the light of God’s love consumes us the more effortless we extend that light, that atmosphere of Heaven, to the dark lord’s kingdom. Do you bask in the light of God’s presence? Do you adore intimacy with God? Do you only hear the commands of God or can you see His smile? Does the radiance of God shine through your life? There is so much more of His presence to experience, as well as His power.
The challenge of increasing in supernatural power is not to seek to move in power but to move in the presence of God. Rather than praying, “More Power!” cry out, “More of you, Lord!” That prayer enlarges your spirit and increases your spiritual sensitivity to hear the voice of God and act on the revelation that He releases to you. The overflow of His presence is supernatural power. The overflow of your presence is merely an expression of soulish power that is most likely tapping into second heaven revelation…the realm of demonic revelation. Do you want God’s power or do you want Him? You can release the gifts of the Spirit; however, God cannot and will not be used. God desires intimate relationship with you, not overt manipulation.
The more we abandon ourselves to Him, the less we stumble around in the shifting shadows of loyalty and the more we release the manifest presence of God wherever we go. Then, what the world will witness is the power of God being expressed through the hearts of men and women who know their anointing comes from a deep intimate relationship with the Lord. As more individuals and groups of believers grow in faith, we will see a convergence of supernatural power and intimacy. Believers will release not only a sense of God’s presence in their homes, workplaces and in the world, but will discover that they have become super-Natural power brokers as well, imbued with gifts of healing, prophetic and revelatory insights, and miracles.”
_____________________
God is as near to you as your own heartbeat, what does it matter who rises and falls from platforms of ministry? And if it does matter to you, are you throwing stones or tomatoes? Calling for his head on a platter? Or are you going to choose to be like Christ and gaze into his eyes and call him “friend” and “brother” and “son”? Are you going to use your resources and prayer time to bless him into wholeness? Because that is what Christ would do for you.
The more the light of God’s love consumes us the more effortless we extend that light, that atmosphere of Heaven, wherever we go. Let His light consume you – not bitterness. Become the one you wished Todd had been for others.
And if you are still hot and bothered about it all, I encourage you to listen to the sermons on “Grace” where Bill Johnson talks about Todd and Lakeland. He talks about this stuff way mo’bettah than I do. You can download them on the sermon of the week page at www.ibethel.org.
God’s love and presence is always with you.
Julia Loren
www.julialoren.net
http://juliascribe.blogspot.com

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Todd Bentley Files For Separation From His Wife

Mon, 12 Aug 2008 18:55:00 GMT

posted by dezmoor
The Canadian preacher Todd Bentley, a pastor claiming to have been bless with the power and ability given by God/Jesus to heal the sick. However, This blessed pastor seem to lack the power and ability to heal and save his own marriage.
According to news realises: Source - www.theledger.com

Todd Bentley, the evangelist who has led the Florida Outpouring revival here in Lakeland since April 2, has filed for separation from his wife and might not return to the revival, according to his former local spokesperson, Lynne Breidenbach. She said Bentley made the announcement to his staff this afternoon. Bentley and his wife, Shonnah, have two daughters and a son and are Canadian citizens.

Pastor Todd Bentley

Under Canadian law, separation is a first step in divorce proceedings and takes nine months. Bentley and his wife have been in marriage counseling for several months, Breidenbach said. She called the situation “very sad” but insisted it “doesn’t invalidate what Todd did” at the revival.

"God uses fallen, flawed people. ... This doesn't invalidate what Todd did," she said.

What is interesting is, when it comes to marriage, the followers of God/Jesus make the argument that the institution of marriage is the most holly institution among humans. Marriage, they teach is not just a relationship between human beings. It was, they claim, established by their Creator God/Jesus, with its own nature, essential properties and purpose.
Marriage is a very sacred institution, and I think that every human being will agree with that. However, If the Christian's God/Jesus are the one responsible for establishing marriage institution, then why didn't he give his "man" Todd Bentley the ability to save his marriage, or better, not let pastor Todd Bentley's marriage fall apart.
God/Jesus must have known that Bentley and his wife Shonnah, have two daughters and a son. That's three children that will be growing up without their father's presents in the home. A father that will not be in their immediate life, especially a father that is suppose to be that close to "God/Jesus".
It have been shown, that to grow up and become a mentally healthy functional adult in society, one must, as children grow up in a stable home where both parent are almost always present.
Another point I must make that God should have known if he is all knowing, is that children become emotionally shaken when parents they love and adore all of a sudden separate from each other. However, caring about children feelings and emotion is not God's/Jesus' business. God have shown his incompetence when it come to children. He refuse to heal sick children, even if their parent pray and ask from him that one small did all day. However, this God/Jesus spent supposedly countless of time healing christian adults and supposedly giving some of them the ability to heal other Christians.

Infant dies after parents reject aid [and pray to God/Jesus for help]

11-Year-Old Girl Dies When Parents Choose Prayer Instead of Medical Care

It's funny how can God give Pastor Todd Bentley the power to heal perfect strangers but unable to give him the power to save his own marriage. Also Todd's so called personal Angel name Emma who always carry him messages from God/Jesus haven't even showed up ether. Pastor Todd Bentley sorry, but your are on your own. This is how God/Jesus works, he doesn't show up when you really need him.

Todd Bentley is just another Christian pimp

Todd Bentley: Exposed on ABC Nightline: 1

Todd Bentley: Exposed on ABC Nightline: 2

New Todd Bentley article

Fri, 12 Jul 2008 14:14:00 GMT

posted by TimWirth

The Rick Warren, Todd Bentley connection is through the mentor they share in false apostle C. Peter Wagner.
Here is a new article on Todd sent to me by my friend and brother in the Lord John Baker.
Tim

Todd Bentley, Fresh Fire Ministries and Lakeland Revival

Compiled By S. E. Ray

Canadian Todd Bentley doesn't look like a minister as some would expect. The 32-year-old openly sports body piercings and tattoos on his arms and neck, which has caused many to question his purpose and motivations.

On April 2, 2008, Bentley was invited by Stephen Strader, pastor of Ignited Church, Lakeland, Florida, to lead a one-week revival. The revival quickly became a religious and media phenomenon, attracting up to 10,000 attendees nightly. It continued after the first week. In addition to showcasing Bentley's evangelism, the revival features colorful light shows and power-chord Christian rock music.

The Ignited Church quickly hired A New York public relations firm to send out press releases claiming "documented healings." Information and webcasts were made available via their website and the revival is streamed live via stream - which received over 1 million hits in the first five weeks of transmissions. After the initial weeks, GOD TV, a religious satellite channel, decided to pre-empt its primetime programming and broadcast the Lakeland meetings nightly.

Stepping back to 1998, the FreshFire Ministry Group asked Bentley to give his testimony at one of their weekly meetings. Soon after, Bentley took over the leadership of the group, which became more of a revival movement. He works with and/or otherwise promotes Patricia King of Extreme Prophetic, and he is also very close to aberrant Kansas City prophet Bob Jones, supports Rick Joyner, as well as such churches as the Toronto Airport Christian Fellowship. Todd Bentley’s neo-Pentecostalism is Latter Rain influenced and Bentley now claims to have William Branham’s ministry angels helping him.

To understanding Todd Bentley's origin of power, one must understand the geneaology from which it sprang. William Branham was born in Berksville, Kentucky, in dire poverty. At the age of 5, he heard "A Voice" who directed him to abstain from coffee, smoking and alcohol. This disembodied Voice was later given credit for his unusual healing powers by William himself. William Branham was fascinated with the Zodiac and Egyptian occultism as his mentor was occultist Franklin Hall. Branham’s obsession with the occult is evident even in his death: his grave is marked by a Masonic occult pyramid atop his grave.

He taught his "Serpent Seed" doctrines in the 1950's, of how Eve had intercourse with the Serpent, and all the seed from Cain are predestined for hell. He even called the handsome serpent the missing link between man and monkey. Branham later declared himself the angel of Rev. 3:13 and 10:7 and prophesied that in 1977, all denominations would be consumed by the Roman Catholics, the rapture would take place and the world would end. Before his death in 1965, his occult healing spirit was transferred to hundreds by the laying on of hands. These people include almost all the major names who operated as "healing" evangelists during that time, and who are still at work today. They took Branham’s mantle through the period known as the Latter Rain, endued by the power of his demonic occult entity. William lived his life in fear and acted under a compulsive-type behavior associated with his life-long demonic oppression.

William Branham is an important figure in modern day charismatic, Pentecostal, and emerging church circles. The reason is that not just his latter rain theology, but also his ’spirit’, and (allegedly) his ministering ’angels’ have been passed onto a new generation of prophets. A ‘badge’ of elitism and favor in the new prophetic movement are those who can boast of having met with Branham’s angel or having a vision of it. Testimonies to these angelic encounters are included on Todd Bentley’s website. Paul Cain, closely linked with William Branham, as well as claiming he works directly with Branham’s angels in a similar manner to Branham. It is he who passed the power onto John Wimber and his Vineyard with the prophetic spirit which in turn infected the multi denominational wider church through the Toronto Blessing. The fruit of this has been the elevation and increase of the ‘tent’ of the Kansas City Prophets, whose role call includes Paul Cain, Marilyn Hickey, Earl Paulk, Oral Roberts, Kenneth Hagin, Kenneth and Gloria Copeland, Benny Hinn and now Todd Bentley to name a few.

The Latter Rain is where the so-called ‘Toronto Blessing’ began. The movement is characterized by a plethora of unorthodox teachings and questionable practices — encouraged and promoted by alleged ‘words,’ ‘prophecies’ and ‘visions’ from God, and accompanied by anything from outbreaks of uncontrollable laughter, people acting as if they were drunk, and claims of having received gold dust (calling card of Emma-O?) or other ’supernatural signs’ from God. Bentley’s teachings and practices place his ministry squarely among the controversial renewal and revival movements.

Michael Horton, who wrote “The Agony of Deceit,” which documents fraud among televangelists, said at an interview, “I have not yet encountered a 'faith healer' who failed to preach a different gospel than the one that we find clearly presented in the New Testament." Many of the faithful are understandably grieved by this bold resurfacing of Apostolic/Third Wave/Latter Rain teaching, which is a mix of New Age teachings and altered Pentecostal methodologies.

Charles Haddon Spurgeon "Prince of Preachers", a British Reformed Baptist preacher who died in 1892 said “Discernment is not a matter of simply telling the difference between what is right and wrong; rather, it is the difference between right and almost right."

Even those sympathetic to Pentecostal theology are apprehensive. Mark Balmer, pastor of the 8,000-person Calvary Church in nearby Melbourne, FL, received so many questions about Bentley that he finally spoke regarding his position. He said he believes "in all the gifts for today, including healing." He also asserted: "We are not heresy hunters." He nonetheless told his congregation "not to attend this counterfeit revival." Lee Grady of Charisma magazine said "Charismatic and Pentecostal leaders are divided over its legitimacy."

As background information, Todd Bentley is relatively a new Christian with no formal training or experience in the exposition of scripture. Bentley openly acknowledges the rougher parts of his juvenile past, including his near-fatal drug overdoses, criminal burglaries, assault, physical abuse of his mother and several stints in prison. In 2001, an article in a secular, conservative political magazine called The Report, prompted a mother to reveal about his molesting her 7 year old boy when Todd was 14. Bentley admitted to The Report “I was involved in a sexual-assault ring." Lieutenant Jeff Johnston, a Salvation Army pastor in Port Alberni, B.C said “It’s one thing to be forgiving, it’s another thing to be stupid,” Lieut. Johnston says. “If you, as a pastor, had someone in your church ministry who had been involved in these things and they ever re-offended, the fact that you knew and didn’t disclose it to parents, take every precaution, would be a huge liability issue.” Christians realize that a soul can be saved by grace from any sin, however he personally claims that he was demon possessed after having been born-again, which poses a problem considering his self-acclaimed position.

A visit to one of Bentley's services suggests that he knows how to turn the big crowds into big money. ATM machines were set up alongside food booths, providing attendees with readily available cash for the offering plate and book purchases. At Todd’s revivals, he sells “anointed” handkerchiefs, and takes money from people so that he may pray over them. This is normal with the people on the Elijah list, who believe God condones taking money from people so that they can prophesy over them.

Todd wrote on the etpv.org website in 2003 “Now let me talk about an angelic experience with Emma. Twice Bob Jones asked me about this angel that was in Kansas City in 1980: “Todd, have you ever seen the angel by the name of Emma?” He asked me as if he expected that this angel was appearing to me. Surprised, I said, “Bob, who is Emma?” He told me that Emma was the angel that helped birth and start the whole prophetic movement in Kansas City in the 1980s. She was a mothering-type angel that helped nurture the prophetic as it broke out. Within a few weeks of Bob asking me about Emma, I was in a service in Beulah, North Dakota. In the middle of the service I was in conversation with Ivan and another person when in walks Emma. As I stared at the angel with open eyes, the Lord said, “Here’s Emma.” I’m not kidding. She floated a couple of inches off the floor. It was almost like Kathryn Khulman in those old videos when she wore a white dress and looked like she was gliding across the platform. Emma appeared beautiful and young-about 22 years old-but she was old at the same time. She seemed to carry the wisdom, virtue and grace of Proverbs 31 on her life.”

Without any exception that I have found, every questionable spiritual movement is marked by intervening Angels giving guidance, not necessarily God’s Word or the Holy Spirit of Truth. Muhammad, Joseph Smith, Jose Luis De Jesus Miranda, Jerry and Esther Hicks, Rhonda Byrne, Helen Schucman, JZ Knight… the list is long for those who are popular and have spirit guides from the fallen realm. Bob Jones and Todd Bentley and their spirit guide “Emma” are no different. Todd attributes his "miracles" according to his own testimony, is from an angel that he says is called "Emma". It should be interesting to note, in the book of angels, Emma (Imma Ila'ah, feminine, in the Kabbalah) means “Embrace Everything.” Also closely related, another name used is “Emma-O“, which in Japanese mythology means “King of Hell” or Satan.

Todd's progressive "body suit," which is a term for a complete body tattoo, is covered with Japanese symbols, occultism and Christian depictions. Shown in this photo is the warrior Apollo, who in mythology and alchemy, his spiritual and symbolic significance is identical with that of the sun. The spreading golden hairs which crown the god's head have the same meaning as the bow and arrow (sun rays). The Greek name for Apollo is Apollon, which means 'from the depths of the lion". Apollon was the great Olympian god of prophecy, oracles, healing, and the aversion of plague and general harm. He is also call Apollyon in scripture, or Hebrew "Abaddon" (Rev. 9:11) also identified as the king of the demonic "locusts" described in Rev. 9:3-10. The locust was a delivery method of this god, who poisoned his victims. Why would Todd choose to embellish a fierce god of destruction on his body?

One of the tattoos that have puzzled people are the three large Japanese Kanji symbols on his left arm. Eternal Path turned to expert Takanori Tomita, a native speaker of Japanese and fluent in English, who translates Kanji, Hiragana, and Katakana Symbols. Kanji are ideographic characters. Each Kanji character represents an entire object, idea, or meaning in a visual character(s). Many Kanji characters are similar to each other, and some can have different meanings depending on context. The first letter on Todd's arm means DAI=Big or Great, the middle one EI=Protect or Defend, the last one OU=King or Monarch. In Japanese, DAIOU is often added to provide honor to the subject of mention. In proper order, it would seem to read "Protect Great King," however not only is the order wrong, but the character in the middle is incorrectly rendered. Furthermore, even if the middle character is used at the top, there's no such word combination like "Protect the Great King". It doesn't make any sense in Japanese even if the order of the characters are corrected and the middle character is properly written. It is not unusual for Western tattoo translations to be in error. The middle symbol does not represent the Chinese character "David" in this context, as is widely speculated.

Alex Mizuno, another individual versed in Japanese tradition and writing styles, who produces Japanese documentaries, revealed that there is a Japanese word "Emma Daioh" which means "Emma, the Great King", which is used very commonly in his culture. This God is sometimes simply called "Emma-sama (sama is added for respect)" or "Emma." Buddhists recognize Emma-sama as Yama, who rules the spirits of the dead in Naraku (hell). He said Todd's erred tattoo was in favor of the latter translation. The tongues of flame accenting the Kanji symbols also support his position depicting the god of Naraku.

After Todd's alleged conversion, he had tattooed under his arm a depiction of Jesus’ crucified upside-down face with a subliminal monkey in the beard. Above the tip of the head, is a tattoo of what is said to be Oni, a “Buddhist guardian devil” of Hell. An argument is lifted up against Todd’s ongoing tattoo additions. Under the old law, it was written:"You shall not make any cuts in your body for the dead nor make any tattoo marks on yourselves: I am the LORD." Leviticus 19:28. Even though Christian's are not under the law to fulfill righteousness, as they are saved by grace, they are to uphold it (Romans 3:31). The question has been asked, why does Todd continue to add graffiti to his body in opposition to the Biblical standard?

The leaders of this revival in question have fruits that should be examined. For example, Bob Jones “was removed from the Vineyard Anaheim because of sexual improprieties, which consisted of encouraging women to undress in his office so they could stand ‘naked before the Lord’ in order to receive a ‘word.’” I am sure as a man; he was moved by pure motivations. Todd “Bam” Bentley runs and kicks people in the stomach with metastatic stage IV colon cancer while ignoring children lined up in wheelchairs, who hope in vain that the revival is real and they might get healed. Instead people leave in a hypnotic state from the charismatic frenzy. Similar events are plaguing Asia, thanks to the West's influence (video - video).

Some attendees speak of new oppressions and those who purported to be healed from a malignant condition die shortly thereafter anyway. It has been questioned by some critics of Todd's ministry, all Biblical divine healings lasted for the rest of the person's natural life, why doesn't his? Todd and those serving with him claim documentation to support numerious healings, 50,000 in 90 days, however when pressed by Geraldo Rivera on FoxNews (video) and ABC Nightline (P1 - P2), nothing has been provided to date, despite Todd's promise to reveal proof.

In Jesus' time, healings were not debated over as if they were legitimate. It was undeniable and plainly evident to all, skeptics and believers alike. In Matthew 11:5, Jesus was recording as responding to John the Baptists question "Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?" Christ responded, "The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor." No regenerative miracles are evident at Todd's revival, despite his claims, however some non-regenerative type healings are reported.

Author's Note: We would have added ministry videos to this article, but the Spirit was clear about not doing so. I have also read in other places, people receiving the same word. Even though video is not live, the essence of the hypnotic and ethereal power is relayed in these videos. I do not encourage anyone to seek these out to investigate less the news reports.

How does one explain minor healings if there is in fact a question regarding the authenticity of Todd's manifestations? We are warned explicitly in Scripture that the devil transforms himself into an angel of light", and that in the last days will come 'Lying signs and wonders' that will "deceive if possible the very elect." Paranormal healing has been in existence in the world since the creation, performed by shaman and faith healers. It is the oldest healing art. But the problem with this type of healing is that it is a lying wonder and opens the door to demonic influence, demonization, even possession. A lying wonder is not necessarily a false wonder or false miracle, but it is, more importantly, a miracle claimed to be from God but whose source is really from the realm of darkness. This type of healing leads the person into bondage to the enemy, symptoms that some recipients have reporting under Todd's revival.

Rev. Jeff White, a pastor at a local Missionary church in Lakeland, heard so much talk about Todd Bentley and the revival tent that he wanted to see it for himself. He struggled with what he saw. “I’ve had to fight skepticism and cynicism because I truly believe that God heals. I really believe his powers are real and it is for today,” White said. “I can’t say that my spirit enters in and joins in with some of the things we’ve seen here tonight.”

Attaining a trance-like state as many do at these revivals, doesn't immediately reveal anything about the origin of the manifestation. Every spiritual manifestation can have one of three different origins (divine, demonic or human). The discerning of spirits is necessary to identify the origin. Because the same manifestation, like falling down and shaking violently or tongues for example, can be caused either by God's Spirit, by a demonic influence or merely by the person's own propagations. Trances, prophetic ecstasy and manifestations are expounded from both the Old and New Testament. Interesting occurrences of ecstasy can be found in the biblical stories of Adam, Abraham, David and Saul, Daniel, Peter, and Paul.

Undisputedly, there have been revivals in Europe and other parts of the world since the Early Church. A very long time before John Wesley, Jonathan Edwards, Smith Wigglesworth or the Pentecostal awakening, Europe has experienced the gifts of the Holy Spirit, healing, deliverance, manifestations of the Holy Spirit. The gifts and manifestations of the Holy Spirit have been present non-stop since the Apostles. Church history clearly reveals this fact. However, a believer must be wise as a serpent, but gentle as a dove regarding the testimony of the leaders of such movements, comparing their words and actions to the Word of God. We are to test all things and hold fast to what is good.

Much of what is touted as Spiritual anointing by the charismatics is merely the awakening of the Kundalini by means of ancient occult methods. Kundalini is a well known occult practice, deriving its origin from India. It involves bodily manifestations as a consequence to the ‘Awakening of the Kundalini.’ This is not a mystical fabrication or belief system, but a practice that is strongly promoted by the New Age Movement (2006 Article Here). The Kundalini awakening does contain the most unbelievable expanded states of reality, enlightenment, and absolute ecstasy and it is extremely contagious. However, like crack stimulates dopamine, a Kundalini awakening opens wide a person's spiritual core, removing safeguards placed by the Creator. The end results can traumatize the spiritual essence and leave a soul scarred for life.

At the beginning of the Florida Outpouring, Todd claimed that God had requested that he lay hands on everyone present for ten nights of special transfer or impartation. This power in the occult is called the shaktipat. “Shakti” means power or energy, and “pat” means transfer. Kundalini awakening or (shaktipat) is the infusion of energy from the spiritual master to the seeker, bringing about the awakening of the seeker’s own inherent spiritual power, called “Kundalini.” Todd described this transferable “anointing” as the most contagious he had ever experienced. He said "I used to feel the anointing in my hand; now I feel it in my spine." It is true that the occult Kundalini awakening does indeed start in the lower spine.

The meetings which mystic Hindu gurus hold are called ‘Darshan’. At these meetings devotees go forward to receive spiritual experience from a touch by the open palm of the hand, often to the forehead, by the guru in what is known as the Shakti Pat or divine touch. In a group setting, the transfer of this power will spread like fire to all in attendance who are mentally open and receive the touch which results in all manner of physical manifestations. Involuntary bodily movements; jerking, tremors, shaking; spontaneous vocalizations; burning sensation; sounds in the head; confusion and stupor; gyrating and pulsating; or when slain, unable to move. These manifestations are called 'Kriyas' by the Hindus. Often devotees move on to higher states of spiritual consciousness and become inert physically and appear to slip into unconscious stupor. This state is called 'Samadhi' and it leads to a deeper spiritual experience. The Buddhist suttas mention that samadhi practitioners may develop supernormal powers that can lead to very uncomfortable occult manifestations.

The late John Murray, Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, who died in 1975 said “the difference between truth and error is not a chasm but a razor’s edge.”

There will be many false workers, or many “Who are called by His name”, but very few will be genuinely authentic, this is just the facts (Matthew 7:22). The anointed servant are those who work without seeking recognition or fanfare as Christ and the Apostles humbly served. The Holy Spirit filled doesn’t seek fame, recognition, money and may never be known, such is the humble and contrite of heart. Those of the Pharisee spirit, egocentric and endued by principalities and powers, seek an exuberant audience, accolades, affirmation, financial gain and make a spectacle of the precious gifts of God like a side show circus. Those given to the extreme charismatic (emotional or fleshly) bent are susceptible prey to these types of leaders, whereas such is the power of hypnotic manipulation through the drone of their voice.

Let us stop for a moment and ponder, least we forget, "God is not the author of confusion, but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints." 1 Cor. 14:33. The Lord told Elijah to stand on the mountain "Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face..." 1 Kings 19:11-13. God's spirit is NOT present in chaos or the shaking of the physical, His Spirit is found in the quiet, gentle, calm, and peaceful place.

A. W. Tozer sums it up perfectly in his normal etiquette and precision: "Many tender-minded Christians fear to sin against love by daring to inquire into anything that comes wearing the cloak of Christianity and breathing the name of Jesus. They dare not examine the credentials of the latest prophet to hit their town lest they be guilty of rejecting something which may be of God. They timidly remember how the Pharisees refused to accept Christ when He came, and they do not want to be caught in the same snare, so they either reserve judgment or shut their eyes and accept everything without question. This is supposed to indicate a high degree of spirituality. But in sober fact it indicates no such thing. It may indeed be evidence of the absence of the Holy Spirit. Gullibility is not synonymous with spirituality. Faith is not a mental habit leading its possessor to open his mouth and swallow everything that has about it the color of the supernatural. Faith keeps its heart open to whatever is of God, and rejects everything that is not of God, however wonderful it may be. Try the spirits is a command of the Holy Spirit to the Church. We may sin as certainly by approving the spurious as by rejecting the genuine. And the current habit of refusing to take sides is not the way to avoid the question. To appraise things with a heart of love and then to act on the results is an obligation resting upon every Christian in the world. And the more as we see the day approaching."

"I actually live about 45 minutes away from Lakeland, FL where Todd Bentley has set up his camp. Though I did not see him personally, I went just yesterday to Ignited Church that he is connected with. I visited a 10 am service that occurs daily, and there were probably 1,000 people there. Keep in mind that I am a worship leader/young adult pastor at a large non-denominational church, and consider myself a charismatic with a seatbelt on. I do believe in the spiritual gifts, including tongues, prophecy (which I have), and miracles or healing. I prayed to God to let me have an open mind, and for His Holy Spirit to guide me in worship and also in discernment. As I entered the lobby/ cafe area I noticed something right away: No one greeted me and there were no crosses or anything that made me feel like I was at a Christian church. As I walked into the main worship area (that had no hint of anything Christian) the music had just begun and was very hypnotic, building up with chants in tongues by the worship leader and his other vocalists. Right away I felt like I was at a Hindu, Buddhist, or New Age meeting. It was creepy to say the least. Again I prayed to God to help me have an open mind, but I was very distracted by people speaking in a deluge of tongues, and dancing around through the rows of seats. The music went on for about an hour, with the worship leader laughing and jerking uncontrollably, and chanting in tongues between singing and playing a piano. A man then came on stage to introduce a prophetess who was to bring a message from God, a prophecy that she had been given for the church. She immediately began by speaking in tongues, and calling down the glory of God into the room. By this time the congregation had been worked into a frenzy from an hour of hypnotic music and babbling tongues, and was crying out and shaking, and laughing, and crying, and screaming, and dancing, it was all going crazy at once. Again I tried to pray and ask God to help me have an open mind and discernment. It was tough to hear God, to feel God through all the chaos…but then the Spirit quickened a word to me. He reminded me of what Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 14 about orderly worship. It was then that I left that “church” building as quickly as possible…"
Pastor Mike Kendall ~ The Gathering Quote used by permission for eternalpath.com.

Another firsthand account worth reading is written by Pastor Jon Speed found HERE.

Scriptures for Reference

“Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.” Psalm 119:104

“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1

“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” Matthew 7:15

"At that time if anyone says to you, 'Look, here is the Christ!' or, 'There he is!' do not believe it. For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect—if that were possible. See, I have told you ahead of time." Matthew 24:23-25

"For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.” Jude 1:4

“But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons.” 1 Timothy 4:1

"But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them bringing swift destruction upon themselves. Many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of the truth will be maligned; and in their greed they will exploit you with false words; their judgment from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep." 2 Peter 2:1-3

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

“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you for the prize. Such a person goes into great detail about what he has seen, and his unspiritual mind puffs him up with idle notions. He has lost connection with the Head, from whom the whole body, supported and held together by its ligaments and sinews, grows as God causes it to grow.” Colossians 2:8, 18-19

http://www.eternalpath.com/lakeland.htmlTim Wirth or the Simply Agape Project does not endorse all comments made on this Blog.

Lakeland Revival Explodes- Todd Bentley Announces Separation for Divorce

Wed, 14 Aug 2008 15:50:51 GMT

posted by artsidirector

There are a lot of Christians sad, angry and confused right now. Canadian evangelist Todd Bentley, leader of the Lakeland Florida Revival, announced that he and his wife Shonnah are divorcing.

“It is with considerable sadness then, that we must temper the jubilation we know you all feel with the sobering news that Todd and Shonnah Bentley are presently experiencing significant friction in their relationship and are currently separated,” the statement read.

“We want to affirm that there has been no sexual immorality on the part of either Todd or Shonnah, nor has there ever been. Undoubtedly the pressures and the burden of the Outpouring, which approaches 144 days on August 23rd, have helped to create an atmosphere of fatigue and stress that has exacerbated existing issues in their relationship,” the statement continued.

“We wish to stress however, that the Outpouring is not “to blame” for the current chain of events and that in effect we have no interest in blaming anyone, but rather we deeply covet your prayers for Todd and Shonnah and for Fresh Fire Ministries during this time,” the statement said.

When I first read the news I felt sad and prayed for the Bentley’s and their children. Then I got angry because this didn’t have to happen. There were plenty of danger signs along the way. Even Dr. George Wood of the Assembly of God offered some wise guidance on scriptural revival for people to read. We posted it on this web site, “AG Statement on Revival.” We also posted our concerns “Thoughtful Concerns about the Lakeland Revival.” Unfortunately those that questioned anything were told they were attacking Todd Bentley, a mighty move of God and were quickly labeled as judgmental. People need to remember not every caution is an attack from the devil and can save lives and even marriages.

It’s obvious now the danger signs were ignored by mostly everybody anywhere near the Bentleys and the enemy has more ammo to discredit Christianity. With help from God TV and the Internet the revival was marketed as the hottest thing since sliced bread and people by the thousands came to Lakeland from Europe and America. Were the Bentley’s ready for this level of ministry? What about the people around them?

When cautions of concern regarding scriptural error, the angel Emma and exaggerated testimonies of healing, miracles and people raised from the dead were offered it appeared that Bentley was finally receiving some counsel, guidance and possible positive advice on his edginess. (Physical aggressiveness on international television, for example, can get you and others sued.) Some thought this might stabilize the revival before it got even crazier.

In June well known leaders C. Peter Wagner, Canadian pastor John Arnott and California pastors’ Che Ahn and Bill Johnson ordained Todd and offered apostolic oversight to the Lakeland Revival. Many wondered what that apostolic oversight would entail. This televised ordination (spiritual covering) through the laying on of hands with personal prophecy over Bentley’s life opens up a lot of questions such as:

Did these men have a personal relationship with Todd Bentley? (1 Timothy 5:22)
Did they know he was having marriage problems? (Somebody sure did.)
Were those prophetic words judged?
Did they think the Bentleys were able to handle the spiritual warfare on that level?
What about the other ministers on the platform?
Were they taking an active role in the revival?
Did they provide wise counsel regarding the questionable esoteric messages being taught?
Did they stick around?
What is the role of spiritual fathers?
What are they going to do now?
Who helps clean up the mess?

We should all remember that revival is not about Todd Bentley or any other preacher, it’s about Jesus. It’s not about being on TV, big crowds under a tent, or selling tapes, videos or air time either. It’s about turning the hearts of men, it’s about repentance from sin and it’s about reaching the world for Christ. It looks like a lot of people used this revival to advance their ministries. Now the Bentleys need some serious help to restore their marriage. I wonder how many will come to their aid without the television cameras and big crowds.

I know there are lots of people as frustrated as me that have something to say about this but let’s remember the thousands of people who are hurt that need to know that Jesus is still Savior. He is still the one that shed His blood for their sins. We also need to pray for the Bentley family and all those who worked with them in the Lakeland meetings. Again, this could have been avoided with wise counsel. The warning signs were there and few saw them.

The Lakeland explosion is a classic example of what not to do. I think we should all repent because this didn’t have to happen.

Your partner,

Jonas Clark

Publisher

The Voice magazine

Todd Bentley’s Opponents : Irresponsibility : Correction

Wed, 11 Sep 2008 20:53:51 GMT

posted by r180

We’ve been hearing people say that God is cleansing the church, and I absolutely agree. We have seen God act quickly in recent years and I’m sure this will continue when men and women of God continue in their failure.

However, I also believe God is going to deal with those who are operating in presumption and arrogance with cold love disguised as discernment. Those who are slow to cover, love and intercede and who are quick to smirk, point and expose will feel God’s severe touch as well.

The following blog post is from Bill Johnson and Bethel Church in Redding, California. My favorite quote from the article is:

While I will never blame Todd’s opponents for Todd’s bad choices (Todd alone is responsible for them) their opposition had a greater effect than any of his critics will likely own up to in this lifetime.

I so wish Todd’s critics would have prayed, served and loved. There is no reward in shouting one’s personal disagreement on a non-essential of scripture with another brother or sister in Christ. No reward in exposing someone whom God has not finished working on. No reward in presuming our interpretation of scripture is greater than another’s in regard to the many non-absolutes that we can have differing opinions on. There is great reward in covering, loving and serving. God has biblical government well established, and it’s doubtful that one who is not in relationship with someone like Todd would be tapped out of nowhere to participate in his correction. Yet, we see many irresponsibly sharing their opinion in public forums like the internet.

Mature believers will always be more impressed with someone who loves, serves, covers and is full of mercy and grace… full of intercession and commitment to undergird someone than they are with someone’s opinions and insights on a matter. Todd’s critics are not impressive, but his friends very much are.

Here’s the post (found originally at http://www.ibethel.org/regarding-todd-bentley/):

Recent Sermon of the Week in regards to Todd Bentley THE BATTLE FOR GRACE PART 2 8:30AM

A great tragedy has come to light this past week. Todd Bentley, the revivalist who has been leading the Lakeland Outpouring meetings, has had a major meltdown and has filed for divorce. This comes at the worst possible time both for the revival and for those who have stood with him.

Back in June, Che Ahn , John Arnott, and I went to Lakeland, Florida, to do a commissioning service for Todd. We felt the need to stand with him. Opposition against him was great, and we could be a great strength to Todd in that time. John and Che especially could be a great asset as they had endured incredible opposition during the Toronto outpouring. Peter Wagner helped to oversee and lead that part of the meeting. Although he had not personally endorsed the revival, he felt it important enough to risk personal criticism from his peers to bring Todd into an apostolic alignment for his own safety.

I did not go to Lakeland and stand on the platform with Todd Bentley because he was perfect in character or because we agreed on everything he was doing in Lakeland. I went to Lakeland because of his enemies. The relentless criticism and opposition, coupled with the grueling and sometimes unwise schedule, were bound to take their toll on this young man—emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. It happened two years ago, and it could happen again. It was my intention to bring a deflection into the mix so that he wouldn’t take all the heat by himself. Little did I realize it was too late. He was at the place of burnout again, abandoning his marriage and pulling out of all public ministry. While I will never blame Todd’s opponents for Todd’s bad choices (Todd alone is responsible for them) their opposition had a greater effect than any of his critics will likely own up to in this lifetime.

Now what? Pray for Todd and Shonnah for complete healing in their marriage and personal lives. Pray for those giving counsel to them that they would use great wisdom.

Please know that while we may not give details of our efforts, we are doing everything possible to help bring healing and order to this tragedy.

Blessings!

Bill Johnson

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