Apsotle Leaves ICA Over Lakeland Revvial

Last week I wrote about an ICA (a C. Peter Wagner organization) apostle by the name of Robert Ricciardelli. He has apparently left the organization and has seen through the lies and lack of integrity of those involved in the Lakeland Healing Revival. I applaud this man for his courage and for his integrity, and he will likely be one to hear "Well done, thou good and faithful servant". *I do not know of him and his ministry personally, but all can see this man has made a choice for God over the opinion of his peers. That took guts. Refreshing. The real prophets and apostles will come out of this deal. Keep in mind some of these can be genuinely deceived, and genuinely repent. Here is what came in from Andrew Storm today:

Are WAGNER's APOSTLES LEAVING??
-Andrew Strom.

Last week we published a number of strong statements against Lakeland by one of Peter Wagner's 'apostles' named Robert Ricciardelli. For those who are not aware, Peter Wagner heads up an organization devoted to setting in place "apostles" over the church. This is known as the 'New Apostolic Reformation' (NAR), and it has been very controversial. I myself have never seen it as any kind of true "Reformation" - because all it seems to do is set up another level of hierarchy over the existing ones. I also question whether many of the "apostles" are true apostles - but that is another story. Suffice it to say, that Wagner runs one of the most powerful and far-reaching global networks in the Charismatic world.

I don't know if Peter Wagner fully realized what he was doing when he went down to Lakeland and publicly endorsed Todd Bentley and the 'revival' there. But clearly he started a rift in his own movement that may very well almost tear it apart.

However, before we discuss this further, it is also important to note that even some "pro-Lakeland" churches are beginning to have second thoughts about supporting that movement - as more factual information begins to emerge about what is really going on.

The following was written by the leader of a "pro-Lakeland" church - and forwarded to me this week. (I have removed the identity of both the leader and the church). This really is an amazing admission for such a "pro-Lakeland" leader to make:

"Hi staff, We need to talk, probably as a staff, and go through what I've found out. I had a long talk with Robert Ricciardelli. He's no revival critic... He loves revival, believes in healing, prophecy and all the rest and is delighted to hear about the healings we've had here. He's a close friend of Stephen Strader... He's in an accountability relationship with Lee Grady (editor of Charisma Magazine) and is a writer for Charisma on occasion. He's part of C. Peter Wagner's apostolic network, recognized by Peter as an apostle. I've seen the man's website and he's legit, not a heresy hunter.

"The reports he has given me are firsthand, not hearsay. I am deeply troubled, grieved and tormented at what I'm hearing. He attributes most of the anointing at Lakeland to Roy Fields (worship leader). I agree. Roy is nothing but clean and God shows up hugely when he leads worship. I can go into detail later about what is surfacing, but there are huge lapses of integrity going on... Much embellishment. Many claims have been made that simply are not true. The Charisma crew has researched it. I want to weep. My heart is breaking. For now, to be safe and for the sake of integrity, we need to stop speaking about the claimed resurrections. Three of them have been checked out with the doctors and EMTs involved and found never to have happened at all. Todd has been confronted with this and has not adjusted the numbers in his claims. Not a single one of the other claimed resurrections can be substantiated despite diligent effort to do so. Even after Stephen Strader brought it down to 13 (and even those couldn't be substantiated) Todd ran it back up to 27 and more. Misrepresentation and embellishment!

"On the financial front, Todd recently told the crowd that God had told him that there were 1,000 people who would give $1,000 and that they would be blessed 1,000-fold. Robert called Stephen Strader to confront the unbiblical nature of that appeal. It came out that Todd admitted he hadn't heard that from God, that it was just an idea he had so that they could raise money to build a big stadium. Robert challenged them to issue an apology the following night based on that false claim of being told by God and they refused to do it on the excuse that it's a different crowd every night.

"That's the flavor of what I'm finding. There's a lot more. I'm so grieved I can hardly think. I'm not saying the Lakeland Outpouring is not of God (God is bigger than the men involved), although good men whom I have respected all my life are saying just that (that it's not of God), based on what they know and have seen...

"What I am saying is that we need to back up and not identify ourselves closely with Lakeland and that we need to stop repeating claims being made on the air lest we end up getting splattered with the collateral damage when certain issues of false claims, embellishments and lapses of integrity begin to come out more publicly. By the way, no one is saying that some healings have not happened - only that many false, embellished or unsubstantiated claims have been made. A number of really good men, champions of revival through the years, are actually saying that the whole thing is of the devil and that even the healings are demonically inspired. I want to be clear that I'm not going there..." [-end quote].


So here we have a 'pro-Lakeland' church checking out these facts for the first time and now deciding that they "need to back up and not identify ourselves closely with Lakeland." Pretty amazing!

Meanwhile - back to the topic of "apostles" and what is now happening in Peter Wagner's main 'ICA' organization:

One of Wagner's apostles, Robert Ricciardelli, put out an email this week saying that he has received a great deal of support for his stand against Lakeland - the majority of it from pastors. And he also made the following very significant statement:

"As a member of ICA, Peter Wagner actually caused many questions to come my way because of my membership there. I will no longer be involved with that organization and actually have not tracked well with them and some of their agendas since I have been involved with them. However, I have enjoyed the many relationships I have developed from going to the annual meetings. Most all of those relationships are also disengaging from their affiliation with ICA, because of many issues beyond Lakeland."

So clearly Robert is now leaving the ICA - as are other 'apostles' that he knows of also. I asked him to clarify this last point.

Robert wrote to me: "The ICA leadership continues to adopt belief systems without seeking the advice and counsel of members. Many of the members do not, and will not support these beliefs, including the support of anti-biblical behavior and doctrine currently being expressed through Todd Bentley and Freshfire Ministries. In fact as ICA embraces this, they now have taken a stance that will indirectly have to embrace many of the same ministries, including "New Mystic" John Crowder and others. This escalating focus on angels, experiences, trances, etc is far from the focus of Jesus, His Kingdom, and His righteousness... Many of us who really enjoyed the ICA annual conferences are now forced to make a decision as to whether to continue our involvement with them."

Robert has also stated that he personally was never into "Dominionist" beliefs or the "hierarchical NAR agenda." His last statement to me was: "I think that there is a chance that many may disassociate with the ICA depending on Todd continuing to reveal his deceptive doctrine and Peter continuing to support such doctrine."

I wonder if Peter Wagner ever imagined that by endorsing Todd Bentley he may be sowing huge seeds of destruction in his own movement? -Perhaps only time will tell.

*This article by Andrew Storm (of RevivalSchool.com) may be reprinted or blogged

The Disarming Of The Church

Prepared For The Slaughter: The Disarming Of The Church
© 1998 by John Green

"Before a standing army can rule, the people must be disarmed; as they are in almost every kingdom in Europe. The supreme power in America cannot enforce unjust laws by the sword; because the whole body of the people are armed…" -- Noah Webster of Pennsylvania An Examination of The Leading Principles of the Federal Constitution, Philadelphia, 1787

"[W]hen the resolution of enslaving America was formed in Great Britain, the British Parliament was advised by an artful man, who was governor of Pennsylvania, to disarm the people; that it was the best and most effectual way to enslave them; but that they should not do it openly, but weaken them, and let them sink gradually." -- George Mason of Virginia: Virginia's U.S. Constitution ratification convention, 1788

As history has shown, it is a common tactic for the oppressing force to gain control of a nation by seizing the means by which individuals might defend themselves. Once the citizenry are disarmed, it is a relatively easy matter to exert complete tyrannical control. It seems to me that the same principal holds true in the spiritual realm.

The New Testament is replete with warnings of false teachers and teachings, of lying signs and wonders, and of corrupt men who would seek to draw followers after themselves. God has not left His people defenseless. He has indwelt us with His Spirit of Truth, provided us with the example of Christ, His teachings, the teachings of the apostles, and all the other writings found in the Bible. There is a gift of the discerning of spirits given to some, but more importantly, there the ability to test all things and to be discerning, which is the responsibility of all believers. If the believer is to be armed against the deceptions of the enemy, and to remain free from his oppressive regime, then he must exercise discernment with continual vigilance. If this defensive weapon is seized and taken from you, then you are easy prey for any who would desire to take you captive.

Because of these things, it is very disturbing to me to observe a trend in the Body of Christ today. This trend is to scorn and belittle those who would exercise their God-given self-defense weapon of discernment. Those who would obey scripture and "test all things" are mocked and ridiculed from the pulpit, and labeled ‘Pharisees.’ It seems that the Church has fallen prey to the pluralistic, non-judgmental mindset of our present age. The one unpardonable sin is to question someone’s belief, or dare to say that it might be wrong. These new leaders demand you climb on the bandwagon, and if you cannot agree, then you must remain silent at all costs. They call for us to experience now, and evaluate later. Adam and Eve had no experiential knowledge of good and evil. The Serpent called their attention to the attractiveness and desirability of the fruit, and enticed them to experience for themselves. In their later evaluation, they knew that they had been wrong to ignore what God had said on the matter, but by then the damage had been done.

Those who would remove the defensive weapon of discernment are binding the hands of the Church. They are preparing God’s people for the slaughter. Why are they doing this? Why would they want to expose millions to the myriad deceptions of the enemy with no protection. Why do they take away what the Father has given? The Church is becoming a slaughterhouse slick with the spilled blood of saints who have been seduced by false teachers. The faithful plod forward to the killing floor, their trusting eyes fixed on their leaders. Error and deception runs rampant. Charlatans rule the bestseller list. Pseudo-knowledge is dispersed around the world, speeding through electrical synapses. Make no mistake. It is a battle, and much is at stake.

Let us examine the logic (or lack of it) behind what some of these leaders are saying:

"You have to experience it yourself before you judge it." This is pure nonsense. It is the method the Mormons use to get people hooked in (pray about the Book of Mormon and see if you get a ‘burning in your bosom’). You don’t have to experience suicide to know that it is bad for you. Christians are never commanded to authenticate a questionable spiritual experience by submitting themselves to it.

"If you don’t jump in the River, then you may miss out on the move of God." If you don’t exercise your duty to test everything and hold on to what is good, then you may be deceived. God is not in a hurry. If you are walking with Him, seeking to please Him, then He will guide you into all He desires for you. Just because someone proclaims something is a move of God, doesn’t make it so. Beware of the salesman who pushes you to make a decision on the spot. He may have something to hide.

"God offends the mind to reveal the heart." I don’t know what this is, but it is not Scripture. It is true that God’s ways may be offensive to human wisdom. Often though, this quote is used to say that if you are offended by something going on in the Church, then your heart isn’t right. The real issue is, are you offended because what is going on is unscriptural? If so, then stand fast.

"Don’t oppose what is going on, in case it turns out to be a move of God." This is the argument used by Gamaliel in Acts chapter 5. Although this argument worked in favor of the apostles, it must be pointed out that Gamaliel was a Pharisee making a pragmatic argument. His was not a directive from the Lord on how believers should conduct their discernment. If something is not from God, ultimately, it is true that it will not succeed. In the time that it takes for a false movement to runs its course however, many lives will be damaged, and many souls deceived and damned. Look at the phenomenal growth and apparent success of Mormonism. Christians rightly oppose Mormonism on a basis that it twists and deviates from Scripture. Things which occur within Christianity should receive no less scrutiny. Or consider the works of Satan. We know that he will not succeed, but we certainly do not sit back and allow him to do his work unhindered. When souls are at stake, we cannot afford to sit back and do nothing.

"Don’t you want more of God in your life?" This is a sneaky one. Of course, any sincere Christian realizes that they need to grow closer to God, and they desire to do so. This should not lead us to embrace everything that comes down the pike however. Part of growing closer to God includes obeying His commands to test and be discerning. The desperation of some Christians reminds me of King Saul turning to the witch of Endor. He wanted an answer at any price. The price he ended up paying was his own destruction.

Look for yourself. See how many times the New Testament references false teachers, false teaching. Using your concordance, look up the commands to discern and test, to not be deceived. Shake off the chains of those who would seek to bind you. Exercise your "Right to bear arms" as a believer.

The healthy soul, like the healthy blood system, has it's proper proportion of white and red blood cells. The red corpuscles are like faith: they carry the life giving oxygen to every part of the body. The white cells are like discernment: they pounce upon dead and toxic matter and carry it out to the drain. In the healthy heart there must be provision for keeping dead and poisonous matter out of the life stream. A.W. Tozer

This article may be reproduced in it’s entirety for non-commercial purpose as long as it contains this notice.

Not Perfect... Just Forgiven

My sister was with me recently as I went about doing errands, and I was telling her about a particular t-shirt I was wearing. I told her before we went into a Walmart how every time I wear this shirt, people stop and inquire about it. On this shirt is a form of a cross, and letters which state “NOT PERFECT… JUST FORGIVEN”. We went into Walmart and before we could walk five paces with our carts, a person approached me and inquired about it. Nearing the housewares department, another person inquires of it. My sister said “Wow, you’re not kidding. People really do notice this shirt.” I have had many people inquire about it in different places. I never realized how t-shirts can be such a great witnessing tool, and some more so than others. People often think “I have to change myself to come to God”, and that is ‘backwards’ as to how God works out salvation. It is His goodness, His righteousness which saves us, and not our “goodness”.

Romans 3:
22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:
23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

Ephesians 2:8-9
8 For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Come Out From Among Them

The Lakeland Florida Revival has been "good" for the church in several ways:

1. It is exposing gross doctrinal error.
2. It is exposing false teachers, prophets and apostles.
3.It is shedding light on the New Apostolic Reformation and its constituents
4. It is exposing greedy idolatrous people in leadership
5. And for those who will not dunk their heads in the sand and exalt human philosophies over the Word of God, it is shedding light on the new age methods being taught in the Church.

Upon turning the television on a few days ago, I heard two psychics discussing how they can hear God all the time through their spirit guides. The lady on the show affirmed that God belongs to no religious denomination, and how angels play pivotal roles in their lives, such as finances, health, and not only protection. She then affirmed she knew she was going to Heaven, and how we all can have spirit guides who will direct us. I was waiting for Todd Bentley or Patricia King to appear… who knows, maybe next week. The two psychics could had easily gotten up, and two false prophets could had taken their chairs and toss out the cue cards.

The sad fact is a little “doo doo” on the shoe is too much. We need to come out from among these false apostles and prophets, and stop supporting ungodly and error-ridden ministries with our finances, time, and services. I said this previously, and will say so again, I do not like throwing out the names of people, yet I am doing so now because we are called in scripture to warn others.

EZEKIEL 33:2-6
2 Son of man, speak to the children of thy people, and say unto them, When I bring the sword upon a land, if the people of the land take a man of their coasts, and set him for their watchman:
3 If when he seeth the sword come upon the land, he blow the trumpet, and warn the people;
4 Then whosoever heareth the sound of the trumpet, and taketh not warning; if the sword come, and take him away, his blood shall be upon his own head.
5 He heard the sound of the trumpet, and took not warning; his blood shall be upon him. But he that taketh warning shall deliver his soul.
6 But if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman's hand.

You see, because we might like a “piece” of a particular ministry (and some are so perverted we must use such words with caution, lest they think you want “some”), yet you cannot untangle yourself from the error from it to make it clean enough. The Lord says to come out from among them in His Word, that is, we are not to be partakers with both Him and the devil, but ONLY the Most High God. I am not talking about minor issues of interpretation pertaining to scripture. I am talking about withdrawing from “Christian ministers and ministries partaking in occultic new age practices and philosophies, sexually perverted and other ways perverted ministers who utilize their power to manipulate people, and those who want to make a name for themselves and acquire wealth through the gospel. These traits do not just occur in apostolic prophetic circles, but can also be found in the church at large. But keep in mind, these apostolic and prophetic leaders want to instruct churches and the minions on righteous living and being useful vessels unto the Lord, when too many are meditating the aura around a light bulb sitting unclothed transferring false anointings over the telephone to some young gal somewhere.

2 CORINTHIANS 6
14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?
16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them ; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing ; and I will receive you.
18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

Paul admonished believers, including Peter to his face, and other people by name in the epistles. These twisting false prophets believe they have found a rickety raft in their muddy waters, and are now claiming “doth negative and hurtful, and not operating in love”. Of course, in calling people “negative, critical, religious, and judgmental”, they contradict themselves, as they claim “they don’t call people 'names'”. Notice how they have a standard all to their own. However, this is not an issue of exchanging surface level "pleasantries". It is an issue of life and death, Heaven and Hell, Truth versus apostasy.

I suggest doing a studious look at the ministers/ministries you support. I am still uncovering things I had not notice before with ministries I use to associate with, and will likely be surprised about some I still associate with. And I can say for me, any ministry endorsing Todd Bentley, Patricia King, Bob Jones, C Peter Wagner, and so forth, I will separate myself from. I am disgusted with these microwaveable prophets and apostles. Many are mercenaries for sale. This is not to say there may be some true apostles and prophets aligned with Wagner, but if they are real and not false, they should see through the gross error taking place in new apostolic prophetic movement. We will never be in the position to hand over “The Kingdom” to Jesus, so that He may then return to newly subdued governments and territories on this earth won over by men. This is totally twisted theology. We are however to go out and win the lost; but scripture does not back up dominion theology. And dominionist advocates have varying prospectives. Google it up and see what “dominion theology” is about. It is twisting scripture so to fill the ambitions of power hungry and/or deceived false apostles and prophets. I do think someone can believe this theology in sincerity and be sincerely wrong. We should find honest, God-fearing non-manipulating teachers, apostles, and prophets, and learn from them. Let their ministries be the object of your financial support and let the Word of God be the ultimate and absolute basis of your understanding.

Apostle No Longer Endorses Lakeland Revival

My hat is off to Robert Ricciardelli, an ICA apostle, (International Coalition of Apostles) who has come out publicly against the error seen in the Lakeland Revival. The ICA is a component organization of C. Peter Wagner, head cheese of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR). I have said this before, I believe a TRUE APOSTLE or a TRUE PROPHET will see the error in this movement and come out from it. I am not endorsing Robert Ricciardelli's ministry, but I think he has made a courageous move to publicly denounce the falsities of the revival in Lakeland, and I pray he continues to see the error in this movement. He certainly saw the GROSS ERROR coming from this revival and the people running it and those behind the scenes. Would not true prophets and apostles see it? Yes.

Robert Ricciardelli comments on a blog on July 16:
"Truth is there are very few people being healed in Lakeland. I have worked with Charisma Magazine editor Lee Grady in discovering how many false reports have been released as facts. These are our brothers and sisters involved in this, but this move of God has been a move of men with God still touching some who come to seek Him."

On another blog he wrote:

"Charisma reporters and a few others like myself have tried to get these verified and cannot... We actually had offered to help, because any news of a resurrection in my opinion is world news if it can be validated. But then when the totals continued to mount which led to hype and embellishment, they began to ask us to stop asking questions. Hmmmm?

"Friday night, Todd said that God said there were 1000 people that were to give $1000, and they were to receive a 1000 fold blessing. The one hour drama on this giving subject was so deceptively evident that it was embarrasing to watch. On top of that, those that would give that money were able to come to the platform to be recognized."

He further comments on Bentley and Lakeland:
"The biggest thing about Lakeland is the lack of the fear of our Awesome God, lack of repentance and humility. Many have exchanged the truth for a lie and chosen experience over content. Angels, trances, and 3rd heaven focus has replaced the gospel is a focus... Lord do what only you can do to bring your divine alignment to all of us in Jesus name.."

"God is about nameless and faceless people who are operating without any agenda but the Lord's. Preaching about the King and His Kingdom, and moving supernaturally after Him, and as they do, signs and wonders follow. The problem in Charismania is that they seek the sign, they seek the thrill, they seek the craft supply quality gold dust, feathers and gems. They may get the chills and frills, but leave with nothing more than goose bumps and really little spiritual change. When they seek the King, the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, you begin to see transformation take place at the heart level. This is God's way and always has been... Bentley is just a product of the Charismatic/apostolic/ prophetic trending away from Plumb line truth. At the same time the fact is, none of us amount to much, no not one. But in Him and dying to self and living His agenda, we can move mountains... The church is getting there, I wrote an article for Charisma that everything that can be shaken is being shaken, and this is what is happening in a great way right now..."

I pray the Lord will continue to open the eyes of our brothers and sisters, and let us be encouraged that more will come out of the deception and have the guts to stand against greed and falsehood.

The Homeless In America

This has been on my heart for a very long time. It’s about the way many people view the homeless in the United States, and how people often treat them as non-persons. There are people working in social services and Christian ministries helping the homeless; yet harboring contempt for them and entertaining stereotypes. I wonder if such people help the indigent just to make themselves feel better, more so than caring about the plights of these people. My own experiences in dealing with the destitute in ministry can attest to such attitudes and stereotypes from co-laborers. I believe some people think they are “more valuable” then the homeless person, but not in God’s eyes.

There are people who will travel around the world to save a whale beached off the Pacific coast, but how many of us pass by these people daily--sleeping on sidewalks, walking the streets, and digging in garbage dumpsters for food. I know of many Christians and non-secular folks who assume the homeless are lazy, looking for handouts, looking for the easy way, etc., yet I believe with all my heart there could be no harder, dirtier “job” as being homeless. It is not a life of ease. It is demeaning, humiliating, difficult and perilous. And they see the contempt in people’s eyes for them; even from some who say they “care”.

Do we even know their stories before making presumptions about them? How many served our country faithfully during wartime, only to come back here and be living on the streets? I find this unconscionable. Many are families, headed by single women, and even still, a great deal are mentally ill. Here are a few statistics from a couple of sources.

On the National Coalition For Homeless Veterans Website:
“The U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) says the nation's homeless veterans are mostly males (4 % are females). The vast majority are single, most come from poor, disadvantaged communities, 45% suffer from mental illness, and half have substance abuse problems. America’s homeless veterans have served in World War II, Korean War, Cold War, Vietnam War, Grenada, Panama, Lebanon, Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan), Operation Iraqi Freedom, or the military’s anti-drug cultivation efforts in South America. Forty-seven percent of homeless veterans served during the Vietnam Era. More than 67% served our country for at least three years and 33% were stationed in a war zone.”
Reference: http://www.nchv.org/background.cfm

“On any given night in America, anywhere from 700,000 to 2 million people are homeless, according to estimates of the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty.

According to a December, 2000 report of the US Conference of Mayors:

*single men comprise 44 percent of the homeless, single women 13 percent, families with children 36 percent, and unaccompanied minors seven percent.
*the homeless population is about 50 percent African-American, 35 percent white, 12 percent Hispanic, 2 percent Native American and 1 percent Asian.
Reference: http://www.policyalmanac.org/social_welfare/homeless.shtml

Most Christians can see the injustice of the plight of unborn children concerning abortion, but we have limited sympathy for someone dying because of lack of medical care, roaming the streets, or starving to death in America. Without knowing anything about a homeless person--- not knowing one thing, many people immediately surmise the fault lies with the individual in such a predicament. Yet how do we know what has happened to a particular person who ends up living on the street? Do we ever take the time to even smile or say hello to the homeless, let alone engage them in conversation? People should not make a blanket assertion about the homeless based on past experiences with certain individuals and cultural stereotypes.

Many people assert that homeless people are dangerous; well, so might be the man selling ice cream to kids playing in a neighborhood. Anyone can be dangerous: cops can be dangerous, teachers can be dangerous, husbands and wives can be dangerous. Yet, it is true, there is a street culture more prone to higher crime, however in any major metropolitan area, people walk pass unknown dangerous people all the time. Yet we continue to live our lives, we don’t let fear dictate our lives. Certainly, as in all matters of security, one should be cautious, but should we stereotype everything unfamiliar to us? A group of black men approaching you on the sidewalk? A homeless woman pushing a cart? Ah, here comes a business man in a suit, rest easy on this one.

I think our culture has come to dehumanize homeless people to a large extent. Their plight has become “common” to the public eye. Of course, around Thanksgiving and Christmas, we count our blessings in Christ and in America, and our hearts reach out to them. But what about the other 363 days of the year? Granted, we cannot help every person we meet on the street financially, but what about just treating them like any other human being? That costs us nothing.

I was reading an account from a homeless woman, which broke my heart. She said people look upon her “as trash”. People would avoid looking at her. It is bad enough to roam endlessly around looking for shelter, possibly in physical pain, hungry, but to know people think of you as trash is so unnecessarily hurtful. There was so much emotional pain in her testimony.

It costs us nothing to say “hello” to someone. Or even a simple smile to acknowledge you are a human being and you have value despite your circumstances. And is it fair to assume things about a person we do not even know their name or a single thing about them? From war heroes to lawyers, to mothers and their children, we should treat them as human beings, with feelings, and with the hope God has for them, that they will know Him and come out of the messes they are in. Homeless people can discern what a person really thinks of them. Being fair costs us nothing, and is it not the right thing to do? Jesus warned in the last days people hearts will wax cold, and we must all be on guard not to become so desensitize to the plights of the homeless around us.

Matthew 25:32-40
32 And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:
33 And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.
34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
35 For I was hungry, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:
36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee hungry, and fed thee ? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?
38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee ?
39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

Going To Third Heaven On Steroids

Ran across this article last night, and from all indications, the author is likely associated (not sure however) with the new prophetic movement. However, he appears very grounded on many issues regarding third heaven experiences. Nor does he discount the supernatural power of God. It did my heart good to see it, as I wonder how many of the apostolic prophetic sort question anything. I do not know his ministry personally nor may necessarily agree with everything, but the article below offers much to consider.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Visiting The Third Heaven
Deception or Reality?

Terry Somerville
Total Change Ministires

I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. 2 I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. 3 And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) 4 How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.
2 Cor. 12:1-4

Real Third Heaven Experiences Are in Scripture

"Third Heaven' experiences are biblical and real. Paul and others in the Old and New Testament speak about being caught up to heaven in a trance like state, of being in the throne room of God, and having revelations of things in the spiritual realms. Paul called it the "third heaven" as well as "Paradise" (vs 4) . Paradise is placed in the third heaven by the book of Enoch. It means "a park, Eden, the place of future happiness." The idea is that the first heaven is natural, the stars, sun and moon. The second heaven is the local spiritual atmosphere, where demonic powers reside and angels intervene. The third heaven is thought to be the abode of God. Some rabbis say there are two, three or even seven heavens.

Modern Third Heaven Visits

But is the "third heaven" approach taught today by a number of prophets a deception or truth? They say a Christian can leave their body and go into heaven or other places on earth. The belief is anyone can do it who has faith. Even a conference room full of Christians can go together. While in this state they may experience the glory and throne room presence of God. They may seek out and encounter the dead, such as the Apostle Paul.

I've read one such revelation where Paul the apostle tells the third heaven traveler that was Abraham was the actual source of the book of Hebrews. To a new ager, that would be called channeling. ie: Paul channeled Abraham to write the book of Hebrews, and this would mean, of course, the book was not inspired by the Holy Spirit. The traveler may also encounter angels who tell them their role in bringing various moves and anointings to the body of Christ, like revival, healing or prophecy. Sometimes these angels are female. (though Jesus indicated angels are neither male nor female Matt.22:30) The traveler then accepts the ministry of these angels and may receive an impartation from them which they later transmit to others.

Is this the third heaven of Paul? Christians today are hungry for supernatural experiences, and readily accept these experiences without testing. But just because we receive a spiritual impartation does not mean it is authentic, even in a Christian setting, and even from a sincere leader. It could be dangerous to your soul. Paul said this could happen.

However, I am afraid that just as the serpent deceived Eve by its tricks, so your minds may somehow be lured away from sincere and pure devotion to Christ. 4 For if someone comes along and preaches another Jesus than the one we preached, or should you receive a different spirit from the one you received or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you are all too willing to listen.
2 Cor.11:3,4

I was involved in the occult before I was saved. We sang Christian songs, had teaching about Jesus and the Holy Spirit, and experienced the supernatural. But the gospel was missing, we believed in reincarnation, and thought we were speaking to the spirits of the dead. If I had known what the scriptures said about what I was doing I would have stopped immediately. The "third heaven" teaching today has many similarities to occult practices and many differences from the biblical experience described by Paul. We should use extreme caution. We have been warned about this ahead of time.

The Word Of God Is The Plumb line

And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.
2 Cor. 11:14,15

We can have all kinds of experiences, even of an angel of light. But the word of God is ALWAYS the first line of inquiry, not experience. It provides doctrine, correction and instruction in righteousness. (2 Timothy 3:16) The word of God flows with life and separates what is of human soulish origination from what is truly of the spirit of the Lord. The word reveals the intent of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12) How does "visiting the third heaven" teaching and practice stack up to the word of God? Not very well. Lets look at some issues.

Third Heaven Teaching and the Bible

1. Visiting The Third Heaven By Faith Is Not A Biblical Practice

Heaven is defined as "the sky" and "the abode of God". Paul did sovereignly experience the third heaven, and so did others like Daniel. In every case in the bible these visitations were initiated by the Lord and they were rare. But the modern practice of visiting the third heaven by faith is unknown in the scriptures. Silence does not authenticate a practice. It most likely indicates the practice was unknown. In no place are we told to seek it. Instead we are told to seek the Kingdom of God, the gifts of the Spirit and to pray in the Spirit. The Spirit of Glory is already living in us!

2. Man Never Initiates Third Heaven Experiences
Proponents of the current third heaven experience say they initiate it "by faith".
In the bible there are a number of times when prophets are caught up to heaven, or "the third heaven". But Pauls choice of words tell us this is quite a different experience from the modern one.

- The word "revelation" in Greek In 2 Cor 12:1 (I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.) Paul calls the third heaven experience a "vision and revelation". The word revelation in Greek is "optanomai" - to gaze at an apparition with eyes wide open. It is not the Greek word "blepo" that would be used if it were voluntary. Jesus made it clear the Holy Spirit will lead us, speak to us and show us things to come. (John 16:13) We can ask for wisdom and expect revelations. But we are not told we can voluntarily "go and get" such a revelation.

- The word "caught up" in Greek. In 2 Cor 12:2 Paul was clear that he was "caught up" into the heavenlies. It was so abrupt and overwhelming he couldn't tell if it was "in the body or out of the body". In other words he couldn't tell if he was physically being snatched away. "Caught up" is the greek word harpazo, which means to seize (in various applications):--catch (away, up), pluck, pull, take (by force). Clearly Paul was not initiating this, and neither was Daniel, Ezekiel, or John when he they had their visions. It was sudden, intense, even violent experience. Paul and the others did not "yank themselves up", God did.

3. Third Heaven Is A Rare Experience - Once in Fourteen Years.

Given the modern third heaven teaching you would think a man as spiritual as Paul would have experienced this more often! Instead he says 'more than fourteen years ago. (vs 2) In other words, it was sovereign and rare. Modern third heaven teachers would have us believe we can experience this daily. So what exactly are they experiencing?

4. Elements Missing From Modern Experience
In most biblical instances of "third heaven" encounters there are clear consequences to the person, even Christians.

- Daniel and other prophets were sick. "And I Daniel fainted, and was sick certain days; afterward I rose up" Daniel 8:27

- The Apostles were overcome, as dead. "And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead " Rev 1:17

- Paul sent a "thorn in the flesh" And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure 2 Cor. 12:7

- Missing Unspeakable Things Paul was not allowed to speak of what he saw in the third heaven. Daniel and others said things were hidden until the time of the end.

- Missing Awe and Reverence The bible experiences of the third heaven are overwhelming, reverent and awe inspiring. The third heaven descriptions we are hearing today sound like a travelogue. These are very similar to the descriptions given by new age channelers.

- Missing Fear Of God In the bible some of the prophets are protected by God. Isaiah feared his unclean lips would doom him but was cleansed at the altar. Today conferences full people, including sinners, believe they can enter the third heaven without consequence, and enjoy the ride.

My Own Encounter With Jesus

A number of years ago I had the experience of Jesus appearing while I was preaching. He was at the back of the church, perhaps 60 feet away. I lost my strength and fell against the pulpit. I could barely speak. People said I turned white as a sheet. After ten seconds or so he turned and walked away and disappeared. I was shaken for a long time afterwards, but also repentance and the power of God sovereignly fell upon the meeting.

5. Consulting the Dead - An Abomination Unto The Lord!
There are a few places in the bible where God's people encounter the dead, but these meetings are far different from the modern 'third heaven" encounters we hear about. The Apostles witnessed Moses and Elijah with Jesus. But as soon as the apostles tried to engage them, the Father rebuked the apostles saying "This is my beloved Son: hear him." John saw the dead under the altar in his vision. He did not engage them. King Saul sought out dead Samuel through the woman with a familiar spirit and was condemned for it (1 Samuel 28).

Consulting with the dead is NEVER a good thing in scripture. Why do we think it is a good thing in the context of third heaven encounters? It is being spiritualized with Christian ideas, but is far from the truth. Personally, I accepted this deception before I was a Christian. But the Lord graciously drew me to Him. Here is the bible verse that brought me to repentance.

Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, 11 or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead.12 For all that do these things are an abomination unto the Lord
Duet 18:10,11

There are various scriptures where we see these practices condemned.

-pass through fire - dedicate or sacrifice to a god
-divination - read signs in objects, such as entrails, drawing lots, tea leafs etc.
-observer of times - reveal hidden omens in events
-enchanter - tell future and cast spells
-witch - send spells, power, incantations
-charmer - join together, link in the spirit by use of charms.
- consult with familiar spirits - a channeler - who speaks by a familiar spirit
-medium or wizard - wise one conjuring up a ghost
- consults the dead- a necromancer - one who inquires of the dead

Israel was commanded to put anyone who did this to death, (Lev 20:27) The instruction in scripture is definite. We should not consult with any spirit. but seek God instead.

And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? 20 To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.
Isaiah 8:9,10

Lev 19:31 do not Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them: I am the Lord your God.

Lev 20:6 cut off6 And the soul that turneth after such as have familiar spirits, and after wizards, to go a whoring after them, I will even set my face against that soul, and will cut him off from among his people

6. Similarity to The Occult
Third heaven experiences have many similarities to the occult. It should give us great alarm. The third heaven experiences seems to be the same as astral travel (astral means the heavens), but in a Christian setting. Here are some similarities drawn from my own experience before I was a Christian.

*Note: Btelife Musings could not paste the author's chart in, so this has been modified in structure

ASTRAL TRAVEL: Sincerity is faith
THIRD HEAVEN: Receiving anointing is faith

ASTRAL TRAVEL: Sin is irrelevant
THIRD HEAVEN: Sin is not usually mentioned

ASTRAL TRAVEL: Impartation of a spirit from leaders
THIRD HEAVEN: Impartation of anointings from leader

ASTRAL TRAVEL: Presence of spiritual realm is felt
THIRD HEAVEN: Spiritual presence of is felt.

ASTRAL TRAVEL: Focus on "light" and break through to spirit realm
THIRD HEAVEN: Focus on light of God and break through to 3rd heaven

ASTRAL TRAVEL: Soul Travels - leaving body into spirit realm and other locations
THIRD HEAVEN: Third heaven journey - leaving body into spirit realm and other locations

ASTRAL TRAVEL: Channeling - communication with good spirits for help
THIRD HEAVEN: Communication with angels and saints for help.

ASTRAL TRAVEL: Communication with the dead
THIRD HEAVEN: Communication with the dead

ASTRAL TRAVEL: A Spirit guide - a spirit who stays with you to guide you
THIRD HEAVEN: Angels & Anointing to guide ministry, taking the role of the Holy Spirit

7. Sensationalism

Recently there has been a great increase in what I can only call sensationalism. All kinds of signs are reported. Gold dust, oil, glory, angels, feathers, jewels, miracle water, anointed objects , etc. God may do any of these things, but it sounds like a new age of "icons" has entered the church. We must focus on Jesus! It seems that the "third heaven" experience is another one of these sensational experiences, and many are enthralled.

Paul, Daniel and the others in scripture seemed to keep their third heaven experiences to themselves most of the time. We need Jesus! It is faith in Him alone! He is the very center, and we are to look to him not an experience.

For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. Romans 11:36

Completeness In Him

The word of God says that we have completeness in Christ, and doesn't say anything about needing third heaven experiences. In fact, we have been given supernatural reality in Christ on earth, NOW! That is His plan. Look at these wonderful scriptures.

We have His presence in us. (We are not going somewhere to find Him)
Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. 1 Cor.3:16, 6:19

We have His Glory (We don't travel into the glory)
And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one. John 17:22

We Have The Ultimate Spirit Guide - The Holy Spirit
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. 15 All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you. John 16:13-15

We Partake of Heaven NOW (We don't travel to get there)
And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: Ephesians 2:6

But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, 23 To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, 24 And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel. Hebrews 12:22-24

Jesus Himself Intercedes For Us - (We don't need dead saints!)
Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. (Hebrews 7:25)

There is much more that I could say. We can have a full, powerful, anointed, spiritual life now. Most Christians are looking for something else and not living in what they have. The ultimate purpose for us is not going up to heaven through third heaven experiences, but His Holy life coming through us here on earth!


His ultimate purpose for us is not going to the third heaven , but His life coming through us here on earth!

Conclusion

Our look at the "visiting the third heaven by faith" idea is by no means thorough or complete. But when it is compared with the bible it leaves no doubt that the practice does not fit the scriptures. In fact there may be a familiar spirit at work, a deception. There is no reason for any Christian to pursue third heaven experiences. We already have "all we need for life and godliness". I close with the following verses that warn the church.

Seducing Spirits
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; latter times, attention to spirits and doctrines of demons.
1 Tim 4:1,2

Strange Doctrines
Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace;
Heb 13:9,10

Test The Spirits of The Prophets
1 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

Know His Voice
sheep follow him: for they know his voice. 5 And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.
John 10:4

Hold Fast To The Word You Received
hold fast to word preached to you at first
1 Cor 15:2

Believing God While In Pain

I have been believing God for the past year and a half, for healing of a terrible condition known as "Trigeminal neuralgia". I do not write this for sympathy, but to be of encouragement.

Pain will drive people to do things they otherwise would not do. It also deeply influences how a person interacts with other people. It can be hard to believe for healing when pain is racking your body, because the circumstances are not only in your face, you feel it. Nevertheless, do not give up, He is God, He still heals, and He can do the impossible. Believe on Jesus Christ for your healing, and if you do not know Him, I encourage you to go to btelife.com or any other website on salvation through Jesus Christ. Yes, God heals. He has healed me before.

Wikipedia defines Trigeminal neuralgia (TN), or Tic Douloureux, (also known as prosopalgia) is a neuropathic disorder of the trigeminal nerve that causes episodes of intense pain in the eyes, lips, nose, scalp, forehead, and jaw.[1] It is estimated that 1 in 15,000 people suffer from trigeminal neuralgia, although those numbers may be significantly higher due to frequent misdiagnosis. TN usually develops after the age of 50, although there have been cases with patients being as young as three years of age [2].

The condition can bring about stabbing, mind-numbing, electric shock-like pain from just a finger's glance of the cheek. Believed to be the most severe type of pain known to humanity[citation needed], the most common forms of TN affect 1 in 15,000 to 20,000, but 1 in 5,000 are thought to suffer from some type of facial pain.

I write this to encourage those out there with this not to give up, to believe on Jesus Christ, and wait on God. It is a debilitating disease, and there are really no words to describe the kind of pain one goes through. The pain can drive you to your knees, staggering around, unable to walk or lift your head up. Yet, stay encourage, and call out to Him, and believe on Him.

I believe God has given doctors knowledge, and medicine to treat us (that is some medicines). However, I do not take to any kind of medicine well, so I have had great difficulty in finding something which will work for this kind of pain. Tegretol makes me feel like I am part of a video game, I cannot function on it. I also took Indomathecin, but it can cause a hole in the gut (lay person's terms) leading to death...what a choice. And then lately, I noticed side effects from Neurontin which I have been on for over a year now.

I found a rather neat site this morning to pass on, Facial Neuralgia Resources, and pray it will be of assistance to anyone going through something similar. Also for people facing cancer, consider The Cancer Forums, which has a wealth of information on treatments, and people going through the disease. Cancer can also present great pain to its victims, but remember, Jesus Christ is bigger than any of these things. Stand on Him and His Word. Miracles happen all the time actually, but one must believe in these things.

Isaiah 53:5
5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

Matthew 8:17
17 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.

James 5:14-15
14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:
15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.

In A Twink Of The Eye

Bentley has now taken a rest from the Lakeland revival, and God TV which was foremost in announcing how important it was to carry live coverage; expressing how they would just have to wave all programs and sacrifice etc, and etc, ...are going about a new song and dance today.

The ABC Nightline Website now states:

UPDATE: After this story aired on "Nightline," Fresh Fire Ministries released a statement announcing that preacher Todd Bentley would be taking time off "to refresh and to rest" after having spent four months in Lakeland, Fla., leading revival meetings. In the meantime their Lakeland broadcasts on GOD TV are put on hold.

If this cataclysmic revival was of God, and not man, would they not continue to broadcast based on their inital assertion this "move" is of God? But because a man leaves needing rest (or for whatever reason it may be); the live television broadcasts will cease; unitl Bentley returns or God TV decides? CLICK HERE The man takes an extended break, so no need to broadcast, only God there now.

Mr. Prophet: Perhaps its major strategy time. After all Nightline, and other news media are demanding proof. Wonder if witnesses can be bought off, if they're trustworthy enough? All the others seem to blow it.

Oddly, I was just reading these verses from Isaiah 31 early this morning.

ISAIAH 31:1-3
1 Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because they are many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD!
2 Yet he also is wise, and will bring evil, and will not call back his words: but will arise against the house of the evildoers, and against the help of them that work iniquity.
3 Now the Egyptians are men, and not God; and their horses flesh, and not spirit. When the LORD shall stretch out his hand, both he that helpeth shall fall, and he that is helped shall fall down, and they all shall fail together.

Don't Miss God

You know, going through comments on blogs and other sites, I notice something about the people supporting Bentley and this revival. They protest opposition to the apostate with mental reasoning and new church buzzwords, like "open your mind", "you gonna miss God", "this is a move of God ("jihad"), "mighty miracles are being performed"--stuff you hear from people who are not even of the Christian faith. Muslims, even certain psychics, and other new agers say some of these things. The Lakeland revival prophets, apostles, and groupies point to what you can feel, and what one may hope to see, thought they saw, and not sure of what they saw...They talk of fire, of the awesome worship music, of a "major shift in the spirit realm" (the "new" prophets and apostles say this almost every day for some years now), revelation, and on and on...

But where is the Word of God in Spirit and in Truth?

Sure, He said in My name we will cast out devils...speak in new tongues...lay hands on the sick and they will recover. Problem is this does not work with counterfeits, and with new age masqueraders. Working miracles with signs following should be of God, not of the devil. And what is of the devil is of the sensual realm most of the time, except for the many apparitions he sends to the undiscerning.

Folks, keep away from the new apostles and prophets, the new apostolic prophetic types. Like I said yesterday, God has called forth apostles and prophets, but those following Wagner of Global Harvest Ministries I will steer clear from. Do you really think mankind can subdue the governments and political systems of the world and present them to God; so that Jesus may return? Some offshoots of this movement do not believe in the rapture for this reason, such as the Manifest Sons of God also known as Joel's Army. Look into the Word, the dominionist theology is not supported in anyway. There has been a gross twisting derived from taking a few scriptures to make a name for oneself! This movement is based in the root of pride and deception.

I am just tapping into this mess, and will be writing more on their theology in the future. For now, consider this from Zechariah, as when Jesus returns to Jerusalem, hostile nations will be on this earth:


ZECHARIAH 14:1-9
1 Behold, the day of the LORD cometh, and thy spoil shall be divided in the midst of thee.
2 For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city.
3 Then shall the LORD go forth, and fight against those nations, as when he fought in the day of battle.
4 And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south.
5 And ye shall flee to the valley of the mountains; for the valley of the mountains shall reach unto Azal: yea, ye shall flee, like as ye fled from before the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah: and the LORD my God shall come, and all the saints with thee.
6 And it shall come to pass in that day, that the light shall not be clear, nor dark:
7 But it shall be one day which shall be known to the LORD, not day, nor night: but it shall come to pass, that at evening time it shall be light.
8 And it shall be in that day, that living waters shall go out from Jerusalem; half of them toward the former sea, and half of them toward the hinder sea: in summer and in winter shall it be.
9 And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one.

Video--NAR and Lakeland

Another video. Ties the New Apostolic Prophetic Movement to the "revival" in Lakeland Florida.



I know at times my words seem rather harsh against the new apostles and prophets. The healing revival at Lakeland Florida has brought about a discussion of a possible "civil war" in the church. However, looking in the New Testament, conflict between those in the Church is nothing new.

It is imperative to keep in mind that most of the people involved in this revival are deceived. I say “most”. I also want to say I believe in supernatural healing, and I believe God still uses real apostles and prophets today. Unfortunately, there are tons of fakes out there, some being used knowingly, but mostly unknowingly by the enemy. This problem is exacerbated as these people embrace New Apostolic Reformation theology and it is loaded with error.

At times these exchanges have gotten very nasty, from both sides. I too have gotten a bit miffed, and I have to remind myself; the majority of these people are deceived. I do, and continue to pray for them fervently to come out of this deception. It has new age components, along with lying signs and wonders. What will believing in a false type of gospel do for you, a false Jesus? It could lead you to Hell! And when you see people you care for, even people you do not know falling for lies and deception through “supposed servants” of God, it can be very frustrating.

It is so critical to stay in the Word. It is our anchor.

II Timothy 2:15
Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Fool’s Gold

The new age apostolic prophetic apostate are rallying around the Lakeland healing revival, and this is no surprise; as they indeed conceived it, initiated it, implemented it, and continue to orchestrate it. As time passes, and these self-appointed false apostles and prophets respond to “criticism”--- so the time now comes to pull out their “apostolic prophetic bibles”, and twist the Word with undue perfection. Perhaps they will maintain use of the ATM machines in the “glory” tent can be found Matthew 17:27, according to their NAR bibles:

New Apostolic Prophetic Bible
Matthew 17:27
Thou exerciseth wisdom, avoiding taxation and the books. Thou knowest how to avoid the greedy hand of the IRS and store up for thyself.

Mr. Prophet: Tis wise of them, I dare say. We all can’t be greedy, for there is not enough to go around.

How have they responded to “criticism”? With man-made reasonings and twisting of the scriptures---something they are really good at already. Keep in mind, their idea of ‘criticism’ is people upholding the Word of God against to what is being said and done in this revival. When people question the unbiblical things of this revival, they are termed “religious”. When people point out the blaspheming of the Holy Spirit; the Lakeland apostate shrug and say “tis a critical religious spirit.” The Lakeland healing revival has repeatedly failed the Word test and reeks of pride, corrupt motives, greed, and new age pageantry. Not much Word in this thing, but plenty of bamming, bartering, pulsating, jerking, jumping, new age themes, demonic manifestations, and utter falseness. There are no medically substantiated miracles. True to form, the “new apostolic prophetic” Lakeland constituency continue to twist the Word around; as versed so well by their NAR counterparts.

2 Corinthians 4:1-2
1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.

I Thessalonians 2:1-6
1 For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain:
2 But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention.
3 For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile:
4 But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.
5 For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloak of covetousness; God is witness:
6 Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.

Why preach Jesus? Do you suppose a person in Hell would rather been saved while living on the earth, or to had been healed? Give me salvation any day, although God still heals and I believe in supernatural healing. Yet, more importantly, an angel cannot save you, Jesus can. That’s why we preach Him. In Him we live and move and have our being--- not in angels, portals, orbs, and prophetic dance. Not in apostles, prophets, prophetic counsels, roundtables, and music. And certainly not in counterfeit healing miracles. The preaching of Jesus Christ is something you really don’t hear of in this so-called revival. And with an emphasis more on angels, we can see this revival was initiated in deception, thus rotten fruits from the get go. Did the prophets foretell in the Old Testament of salvation through angels and of worshiping angels? Or did they emphasize and foretell of the coming Messiah, of One which would bring salvation and everlasting life? A great light which shines out of the darkness, who is none other than Jesus Christ. For the new apostolic prophetic, any light will do, particularly for their ‘meditation exercises’. Did Paul emphasize angels or did he warn of worshiping them, and warn of deceitful workers? These are wolves sent out into the flock.

Acts 20:29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.

Colossians 2:18
18 Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,

Would satan send his cronies out on the stage in Lakeland Florida, to announce “angels are the way to salvation” or would he send a slick presentation, with just enough Word, just enough Jesus, along with a new age medley of lies and deception? He is smarter than that, and knows how to bait the hook. Instead he sends “the healing angel”, Winds of Change, and whatever demonic entity to serve his purposes (that is if we can even believe these apparitions are not made up). Covertly and with subtlety he comes.

It is of no surprise, the new apostolic prophetic camp has come out with damage control; akin to a bottle of fake deodorant. Notice lately, in the midst of angels, greed, and bamming, a “little dab” of Jesus, a salvation word...now and then. Could it be by accident? Not. Damage control by liars and thieves. Manipulation for the cameras, and a false word in due season by a dozen other false prophets. After all, many of them share common traits: liars, thievery, false apostolic prophetic anointings, bogus third heaven experiences, and embracing new age techniques along with its devils just to name a few. Keep in mind, however, there are some really who believe this mess, and being deceived, they deceive others. Yet, would not a true prophet see it?

Reportedly, Bentley’s response to the people who are objecting to the revival and pointing out its inconsistencies with the Word, is to call them wizards, witches, warlocks and satanists. An odd response indeed. Bentley proclaims an angel at the Lakeland revival is “like” an angel William Branham claimed was with him. Bentley also claims guidance from a so-called “ angel of the prophetic” named Emma, who was originally female. However, since the recent publication of his new book, the angel is now male. Branham, another false prophet, believed the Word of God was given in three forms: the Zodiac, the Egyptian pyramids, and the written scripture. He also denied the Trinity, disputed the existence of an eternal Hell; and Bentley claims the mantle of William Branham is upon him. Branham was nothing but new age plus elements of Christianity--- total error, antichrist; now consider Bentley and many of the NAR apostolic prophetic group revere William Branham, and even imitate him. I really don’t like throwing out people’s names, but fact is, any reading this knows who I am talking about anyway, and this man and his ministry is of the new age dangerous type and he has habitually lied on many things.

God does not violate His Word. He may have chosen foolish things to confound the wise, but this does not mean He has chosen ungodly things to confound the wise. He does not endorse ungodliness, He may use ungodly people just like He used Nebuchadnezzar to accomplish a purpose such as judgment, but He does not endorse ungodliness or falsehood. Nor has He “chosen” people advocating new age methodology and operating through demonic spirits. Paganism has never been acceptable to Him. He alone demands our whole hearts, our minds, our souls and being. He alone is God. People in the Catholic church worship the Lord, but they also worship Mary, St. Jude, and so forth…do you think this is acceptable to the Lord? No more acceptable than the new apostles and new prophets worshiping Him and yanking on false gods of divination and conjuring demonic visitations. These people are relying on new age demonic power and are sensual and are led by their senses. They are transferring demonic spirits to others and being led by demonic spirits which masquerade as the Holy Spirit. And they are idolatrous---they idolize each other and like fellows. They idolize the “apostolic and prophetic”. They envision themselves more important, more spiritual, over and above other members of the Body. Steeped in pride, deception, ignorance, and idolatry. How do they not realize they have been handed over to their gods?

II Timothy 2:19-21
19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honor, and some to dishonor.
21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.

Mr. Prophet: Oh, well, let me go forth in ministry. The Lord hath not time to prepare me.

You see, ‘you’ can look like “death warmed over”, tattooed, leathered up, with bandanna, sitting on your Harley, and be living a holy and righteous life, with character and integrity, following the principles of God. ‘You’ can also look like “death warmed over”, tattooed, leathered up, with bandanna, sitting on your Harley, and be as greedy, and deceitful and as new age as they come, with a few Word sprinkles on top to cover your foul odor up. ‘You’ can have Elders come out of their musty apostolic prophetic caves and anoint ‘you’ with covetous oils, rings and what not, and leave as greedy, deceitful, and new age as ‘you’ are. ‘You’ can have Brother Bob come up, close his eyes and hold hands to see who gets transported first to heaven---and “any heaven’ will due will this group.

The Nigerian con artists roaming the Internet often start their letters with salutations in “Greetings in the name of Jesus Christ”, or talk about their missionary work, etc. Just become someone dress a little Word on an event, does not make it of God. Many psychics, much like these---as they also share a spirit of divination, claim they hear the voice of God and do Him service. Should we believe them because they claim they know God? I watched a professed psychic on television talk of Jesus, vocalizing His name several times. Many people know “of Him”, but don’t “know Him”.

The Word of God is the standard. It is the final authority. No where in it do you find someone meditating their way into third heaven. These false apostles and prophets are fixated on third heaven, portals, and gorging themselves like swine on THEIR experiences. And God has given them over to their ”third heaven idols” and the like, because they cannot see the idolatrous occultic nature of it (I believe some see). They seek experiences, and He has become secondary. They want to glamorize themselves, their ministries, and be spiritual big shots in the know. Then they say you are jealous because you have not had a bogus third heaven experience or vision straight from Hell.

If they really wanted to know the Lord Jesus Christ, they would not “make” Him out to be whom they want Him to be, but accept Him as the Sovereign God He is. They would learn to wait on Him and accept Him as He is--- whether He is in their face; but more importantly, whether He is silent. He is not battery operated by our whims. We cannot say, “gee, lets go to third heaven today… Lord, see you in a minute”. Instead, you may be tilling your garden or praying, and He imparts a vision to you. And we should always test these things—with His Word and by His Spirit within us. BUT these Tower of Babel builders (the new apostolic prophetic) are going in their own strength; climbing up with demons and coming back down with demons. It’s fool’s gold. Nor do they assess and test it; instead it’s plastered on their websites the next day, and on dvds the next week. And don’t you know, satan will have three false confirmations to go with it?

Another thing the false and deceived bring up when confronting a “threat” to their falsehoods, is that just because something is not written expressively in the bible, does not make it necessarily false. This is true. Yet, I see no account of injecting a person’s computer with a virus in the bible, therefore is it lawful or it vandalism? I see no account of meditating one self into a “third heaven vision” by blanking out one’s mind, therefore is it lawful to invoke demonic spirits and engage in new age practices? Pornography and masturbation is not expressively written, yet most Christians know it is sinful and that the Word forbids sexual immorality. I see of no place forbidding to kick someone in the face to implement healing, yet it is an obvious work of the flesh. Would God heal one part of the body, while injuring another part? Is God desperately acting violent, because He lacks power in a given moment and needs to muster strength? Is it the violent taking it by force, because God needs help from a human being because He felt weak that day? Malarkey. Who will heal them from the “healer”? Jesus Christ still does and can.

We have His Spirit to lead us and guide us into all truth. Many Christians have experienced being led by the Holy Spirit concerning a particular thing, however, if we shove His voice aside after He repeatedly deals with us on something, we may come to not hear His voice at all on a specific issue. I think this is what has happened to some of the deceived ones in the new apostolic prophetic circles.

John 14:16-17
16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever;
17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

I John 2:18-
18 Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time.
19 They went out from us, but they were not of us: for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.
20 But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.

Any opposition to their theology is now perceived erroneously to be a religious attack. Opposition has arisen because people are coming out against gross error in this movement, and against counterfeits. Counterfeit apostles, counterfeit prophets, and counterfeit revivals. To question the new apostolic prophetic leadership’s authority is treason in their circles, even if they are in violation of God’s Word. One must ask, whom do you place first? God or man? Skilled at twisting things around, they declare you must be divisive, disorderly, rebellious, and religious for not acclimating to their falsehoods. The problem is not rebelliousness from the so-called “heresy hunters”, the problem is their phony authority is invalid because it violates the Word of God. The rebellious ones are those who do not submit to the Word of God, not the ones refusing to submit to men and doctrinal falsehoods. The false apostles and prophets rather believe a lie, and make a name for themselves. After all, their phony reputations, ministries and livelihoods may be at stake, so why question themselves or anything for that matter. Ignorance is not bliss, and it certainly can be dangerous.

1 Timothy 4:1
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

I John 3:21
Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.

A Few Things On Abortion

The Word is clear that life is precious in the sight of God. Humanism has eroded the thought processes of men and women concerning unborn children, and this philosophy attributes more rights to the mother than the unborn child. This belief system is more prevalent among college educated adults, but astonishingly some who profess to be Christians are also pro-choice. For nearly 15 years, I concurred with the humanists, until I became a born-again Christian. To the natural mind, an argument for pro-choice may seem logical and fair; but ultimately, the real issue is to who’s authority are you subject to? Is it to God or to humanism—the ideologies and philosophies of man-kind?

The National Right To Life Organization reports since 1973 after the passage of Roe vs. Wade there has been over 48,589,993 abortions (using data collected from 1973 to the year 2004). Although current trends indicate a sizable decrease in abortions, millions of other lives have been destroyed.
Reference: http://www.nrlc.org

The abortion rate among teens ages 15 to 17 has declined by 45 percent since 1990, from 26.5 abortions per 1,000 teen females in 1990 to 14.5 abortions per 1,000 teen females in 2000. Overall, teen abortion rates have been declining since the late 1980s….More than one-third of all teenage pregnancies in the U.S. end in abortion.
Reference: Child Trends Databank

Can you imagine? I never thought our society would see a day when pregnant 15 and 16 year olds seem commonplace; yet even the secular world consider it a major social problem. Look at the music videos, the Saturday shows geared to young people…little girls in makeup; trying to appear alluring and sophisticated to the opposite sex. Children hardly get to be children anymore, and sexual temptations come their way very early these days. Additionally, we got many parents, who don’t watch their children and have not established a moral foundation in themselves, let alone their kids. Older predators lurk in the shadows, manipulating teens on Myspace and other internet sites, seducing their young impressionable minds. And "thanks" to godless views on sex in mainstream society; prevailing Western culture shrugs its shoulders to teenage sex, chalking it up to being the norm.

These behaviors, although related, are for another discussion at some future date. Abortion destroys not only the life of the unborn child, it often destroys the lives of the mothers, and greatly impacts the other people involved in the process. Before going on, it is necessary to take a brief look at the unborn in light of a few scriptures.

JEREMIAH 1:5
Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.

God of course, being God not only states “I formed thee” to Jeremiah, but further says Jeremiah was sanctified and ordained as a prophet before he came out of his mothers womb. Jeremiah is not a blob of fetal tissue, but a human being with a spirit, and with a purpose.

In the gospel of Luke, observe John the Baptist, yet to be born, filled with the Holy Ghost inside Elizabeth’s womb! Furthermore, he leaps with joy inside Elizabeth at Mary’s good news of carrying the Son of God.

Luke 1:15
For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb.

Luke 1:44
For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.

Abortion is typically a selfish act. Feminism and humanism present abortion in socioeconomic and political power terms, and these philosophies do not bring themselves in subjection to the Word of God. The issue therefore becomes not of womens' status in a male-dominated societies, but whether God’s Word is true. The standard humanistic assumption is that “religion” is a form of social control. To many feminists this translates to attempting to control women politically, socially and economically by limiting what choices they can make over their own bodies. Even Christians struggle in this area if they allow reasonings to dominate their thinking. Whether a person refuses to believe the Word of God does not change the fact that He is as He is, and He means what He says in His Word.

I feel strongly to say something to all born-again mothers out there who have committed abortion(s). It is under the blood of Jesus. Consider what David said concerning the illness, and eventual death of his child. I chose the Good News Translation as it offered more clarity:

2 Samuel 12:16-23
16 David prayed to God that the child would get well. He refused to eat anything, and every night he went into his room and spent the night lying on the floor.
17 His court officials went to him and tried to make him get up, but he refused and would not eat anything with them.
18 A week later the child died, and David's officials were afraid to tell him the news. They said, "While the child was living, David wouldn't answer us when we spoke to him. How can we tell him that his child is dead? He might do himself some harm!"
19 When David noticed them whispering to each other, he realized that the child had died. So he asked them, "Is the child dead?" "Yes, he is," they answered.
20 David got up from the floor, took a bath, combed his hair, and changed his clothes. Then he went and worshiped in the house of the Lord. When he returned to the palace, he asked for food and ate it as soon as it was served.
21 "We don't understand this," his officials said to him. "While the child was alive, you wept for him and would not eat; but as soon as he died, you got up and ate!"
22 "Yes," David answered, "I did fast and weep while he was still alive. I thought that the Lord might be merciful to me and not let the child die.
23 But now that he is dead, why should I fast? Could I bring the child back to life? I will some day go to where he is, but he can never come back to me."


I really believe mothers who know Jesus Christ, and have repented from abortions in their past, will be reunited with their children. The Lord has forgiven all who seek forgiveness for aborting their children; therefore, women who have repented must forgive themselves, and the people in their lives should forgive them as well. Too many times Christians have been harsh and discriminatory to those who have repented for abortions; saying stuff like “I don’t see how any mother could kill their unborn child”. How? Through the blinding power of satan. Through selfishness, ignorance, and deceit. I am not discounting the sinfulness and murderous act of abortion. However, it’s very easy to point to a person’s sin and continue to hold them accountable when they no longer condone or engage in that sin. When a person has repented, and demonstrated a turning away from, we need to accept them. Instead of supporting these women for their acts of repentance, they often find condemnation and contempt from other believers; and sometimes even from church leaders. God forgave Moses, David, and Paul for murder. And if He forgives them for murder, He will forgive anyone who confesses the sin of abortion; turning from it in their hearts and in their actions.

2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

The following is a very moving testimony from woman who committed abortion:

Amazing Grace
Case Study: Carolyn "Allen"

I was 24 years old, and had recently had sex for the first time—outside of marriage. I had grown up in a Christian home and was already ashamed and ambivalent about my sexual relationship. Then I got pregnant right off the bat.

I had a pregnancy test at my ob./gyn. and she told me she didn't think I was pregnant. She thought I might have a tumor, because my uterus was enlarged. I "prayed" for cancer. But I turned out to be pregnant; I found out the next day.

I was panic stricken. I couldn't believe I was pregnant. I immediately blurted out, "I have to have an abortion." I had never even thought about it before, but that was the first thing that came to mind. I told my boyfriend I was pregnant, but we didn't discuss what to do. I left him just assuming I would have the baby.

I told no one else. I had asked my doctor for sleeping pills until I could have the abortion four days later; I don't think they worked. I didn't want to think; I just wanted to get it over with.

I wondered if my baby knew what I was planning. I talked to my baby and apologized. But mainly I just wanted it to be over. I thought I could cover my sin, erase the past few months, break off my relationship with the father, and start over—just as though none of it had ever happened.

My abortion was a cowardly, selfish decision. I saw it as my whole life being "over" if I stayed pregnant. I didn't even consider any other options. I chose myself over the baby.

I had a D&C abortion at a women's hospital in Washington, D.C., under general anesthesia. I was scared and upset, and when they came to put an IV in my arm I told them I didn't want to be put to sleep until I had seen my doctor. They told me it was just vitamins, but then put the anesthesia in anyway. So I don't know to this day whether my own doctor (a woman) did the abortion, or one of the men who was standing there as I went to sleep. I just remember feeling the stuff in my arm, calling out "No!" and then I was out. I don't mean this to say I was going to change my mind about the abortion. I wasn't.

When I woke up in recovery, I asked if they would just tell me if it was a boy or a girl. A nurse harshly responded, "It's just tissue. There's no way to tell."

I took a cab to the hospital and took one home. I wanted to do it all by myself, so no one would know. I felt so alone.

I felt a huge, gaping hole, an emptiness, right away. I also felt terrible guilt. I turned away from God completely, because I could not face Him with my abortion. I felt I had passed the point of no return—just gone too far. That was an unforgivable sin. And I had gone into it knowing that. It was sort of like I sold my soul.

I immediately began a pretense. I went back to work ("I was just a little under the weather last week," etc.) I tried hard not to think about it.

I did have to tell the baby's father. He was very hurt and upset, but he said he understood and he still wanted to marry me. I had planned to break it off, but now I thought that no one else would ever want me, and I had hurt him so much. So I married him.

My wedding was three days after my baby's due date. I pasted a smile on my face and pretended to be a happy bride, but I was thinking about my baby.

I began to drink a lot to be able to get to sleep, to not think. My relationship with my husband went downhill immediately. I now understand the rage and hurt he must have felt over my aborting his child without even telling him first. But I was just so wrapped up in my own hurts I didn't think about that then. We never talked about it.

He was abusive, and I accepted it. I would hear in my mind, "So what's your problem? At least he didn't kill you. You killed your baby!"

I wanted to die, but I was afraid of hell. I even felt guilty about not committing suicide: "You didn't have any problem killing your baby. Why get cold feet now? You deserve to die! You're not only a murderer, you're a coward!" I wanted to be in a coma. I guess I thought I could wake up in 50 years or so and be able to deal with it then.

Six years later, we were divorced. I had been stuffing my feelings down or anesthetizing them with alcohol so long, and wearing a mask and pretending for so long, that I felt numb. I remember getting out of the car to go into a grocery store one day and thinking, "I'm even just pretending to go to the store. I don't even exist." I felt like a zombie.

The abortion changed me in every way. I went from being an outgoing person who loved friends to being a hermit, not wanting to be close to anyone. I thought they would hate me if they really knew me. I became a heavy drinker—probably bordered on becoming an alcoholic. I ran from God and hated myself. I accepted abuse and felt humiliated over that, and all the while I had this gnawing emptiness. For 12 years I was in a state of non-growth—just existing.

I became a Christian while I was separated, shortly before my divorce. At that time, I asked God to forgive me for my abortion, but I still felt so numb. I didn't cry about my baby or anything. I felt hard-hearted and unable to really confess. I wondered if I was really sorry, or just regretted what had happened to me.

I told a pastor about my abortion, but just in a list of things wrong. He didn't mention it again and neither did I. Then I saw a Christian counselor who tried to convince me that I was abused as a child (I wasn't) and we didn't deal with the abortion at all.

Three and a half years ago, I went through a support group that used Women in Ramah, a Bible study by Linda Cochran. I was finally able to face my abortion. I found God's promise to "take away my heart of stone and give me a living heart of flesh." I asked Him to do that for me and He did.

I finally was able to get over myself and think about my baby, come to love my baby, and then grieve for my baby. And I was really able to understand God's forgiveness—that all my self-punishment and misery could not atone for my abortion, that there was nothing I could do to pay for it, that Jesus died on the cross for my abortion and all my other sins, and paid for my sins in full. God not only forgave all my sins, He brought me peace and joy. Real joy!

My baby's name is Callie Anna. Anna is the name God gave me, and it means grace. Now, when the "accuser" attacks, even my baby's name reminds me of God's grace and forgiveness. Doing the Bible study was the best thing I ever did for myself and I thank God for it.

Now that I have found healing and forgiveness, I am once more developing friends, and am able to serve God however He chooses to use me. I know God works everything for good, and I have seen Him use me to help others now. After working through my abortion, and seeing how very much God values each one of His creation, I am less critical of others, and tend to see all people as precious in God's sight.

The Post-Abortion Review 7(4) Oct. - Dec. 1999.
Elliot Institute, PO Box 7348, Springfield, IL 62791-7348
Additional material is posted at www.afterabortion.org