Todd Bentley is not on God's side

The following was written by Pastor Tim Snell from Christ's Church of the Valley in Appleton, Wisconsin. He writes regarding Todd Bentley. I agree with Reverend Snell on this matter.

15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.

Matthew 7:15

One of the most consistent warnings God’s people are given throughout scripture is to be aware of false teachers and false prophets.  These people not only introduce teachings into the church which are incompatible with Biblical Christianity, they also operate under demonic spirits that are to have no part in our lives today.

Certainly all of us can point to examples we have personally experienced.  However, I want to highlight one … because we have one such teacher coming to our Valley…and we in the body need to be warned.

Here is the scoop.  Starting the first full week of June, Todd Bentley is coming to town.  Todd is well known for several things which should cause flags to go up … and then cause us to ultimately run away.  First of all, Todd is known for his healing revivals during which he claims God tells him to punch people in the face and kick them as a part of healing them!  Yikes!   Beloved in Christ, this is not from the Lord!  God simply does not tell people to do this.  However, even more troubling is Bentley’s character and morality.  Just about 2 or 3 years back Todd was leading one of the biggest “revivals” in our nation down in Florida.  During the time he was leading this revival, he was sleeping with one of this ministry associates.  Ultimately then, rather than repenting, he divorced his wife and married the gal he was having the affair with.  Of course, he claimed that God was “restoring him” even as he married this other gal.   

Church of God, be warned!  Todd Bentley is operating under a spirit other than God’s Holy Spirit.  Do NOT go to hear him.  Do not be taken in by those who say that this is all okay.   Opening yourself up to this man is to open yourself up to something quite dangerous spiritually.

CCV, I want all of us to follow hard after the Lord.  I also want us to have a discerning heart and mind about what often happens under the banner of “Christianity.”  Not everything “Christian” is of Christ.  By staying vigilant in prayer and by keeping our feet planted on the Word of God, we can avoid the spiritual dangers the scripture warns us about.

Retreat Tips

Retreat Tips

Don't avoid retreats.  It's very easy for a pastor or a church to become self-involved.  It is important to look up and out to meet with other believers and fellowship, worship God together, and pray for each other.  When at the retreat, contrive ways for your tribe to mix it up and mingle with other tribes in attendance.  Challenge them to sit in different spots for each chapel service.  Challenge them to sit with other groups during at least one meal.  Challenge the older students to "adopt" a younger student for the event, having them look out for the younger ones and encourage them.

Update Twitter/Facebook with blurbs and pictures of what's going on so that parents at home have some connection.  Use this ability to solicit prayers so that the greater congregation has a connection to the students.

As the leader, take advantage of the time with other leaders.  Ask about their gatherings.  Talk about books you are reading or podcasts you listen to.  Talk about fundraisers, outreaches, gathering formats.  What are your students studying?  You might learn a great idea of how to accomplish something that has been a challenge for you.  It's really easy to start spouting off all of your great ideas.  Instead, really work on your listening.  Let God pour into you through others.

As the leader, set the example for your tribe.  When something needs to be done (chairs moved, garbage picked up, etc.), be one of the first people to jump up and do it.  If you bring other leaders from your tribe, require them to do that same.  These are the examples of being servants that build credibility.  If there are option breakout sessions, make them required for your leaders and students.  If there are no breakout sessions scheduled, have your leaders put together something for a daily meeting with your students.


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The Importance of Retreats - Testimonies

Testimonies

This is key.  Do not forget this part.  Once back at your usual gathering, take the time for the students to share their testimonies with the tribe.  This time of sharing is scriptural (Revelation 12:11) and helpful.  Those who attended can share what they learned and what God is doing in them with everyone, including those who could not attend for one reason or another.  This can help solidify the experience as well.  As weeks go on, perhaps invite others to share again, now they have had time to implement what they have learned and committed to.


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Pacifism according to David

If you read Psalm 18, David is recounting and rejoicing over the victory that God gave him over King Saul. Here we have a Biblical example of pacifism.

He did not go looking for the fight.

He did not incite the war.

But once embattled, he did what was required. He ground his enemies into dust. He cut them down so they would not rise again. He fought for his own life.

How do we reconcile this psalm with Christ's commands to love your enemies, pray for their well-being, and turning the other cheek? There is no greater love than laying down one's life for a brother (or sister). Where does one draw the line? Is there a line? What does scripture tell us?