In this final article we will continue to look at examples from these preachers in order for us to have understanding what preaching is not to look like. In the last chapter, I provided a biblical warning based on what a true Christian should do; when it comes to pastors and their teachings. Based on 2 Timothy 14- 18.
Let's consider the next set of statements from these preachers:
(1)Tap into God's power with in you and stop saying, "I can't break that habit." Instead, start declaring every-day: "I am free I can do all things through Christ, no weapon formed against me is ever going to prosper." Remember what Jesus said, "Whom the son sets free is free indeed.' Start declaring that over your own life. It says in Philippians, Chapter 2 we have to work out our salvation. That means we have all those good things on the inside, but we must do our part to see those things bought to fruition in our lives. you have the seed of almighty God (Philippians 2:12)
Now we have a real good example of how not to assume things about yourself based on nothing more than a mere self-centred idealistic view. It is becoming evident that these preachers have no clue what Christianity is about, assuming that it is all about himself and people with such a inward focused mind-span.
Notice, what they sate right of the bat:
Tap into God's power with in you and stop saying, "I can't break that habit." Instead, start declaring every-day: "I am free I can do all things through Christ, no weapon formed against me is ever going to prosper."
What they are advocating here is not even biblical in nature, “tap into God power with in you,” of course there is one passage which could be at the centre of his focus; it is in deed Ephesians 3 :14-19. But once again, Joel has misunderstand the context in a way that is very damning to his whole point. Firstly, the power is not something that is innate in every person, but only those that God has chosen in Christ. (Ephesians 1:4-5). Secondly, the power is actually the ability to adverse any tribulation and it is something which the Holy Spirit who lives in the believer: conforming him to the image of Christ. Notice what that passage states,
For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, …. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, (Ephesians 3:14-16, 20)
You see, all it takes is a little more diligence in reading the context and allowing the Holy Spirit to communicate his truth. That's right, his truth as that is exactly whose word it is. No man has the right to make such outlandish claims about God's word, it is a form of blaspheme and has no place in the church, nor in any true believers devotion. Consider the thought in this kind of teaching once more “Tap into God's power with in you” in what manner does this even honour the one true God, it does not. For a start the power in the believer is not something they can operate in their own stead; it is in fact, something that God himself uses to preserve the believer.
Now for the verses that these teachers use but does not actually reference in this statement:
"I am free I can do all things through Christ, no weapon formed against me is ever going to prosper. Remember what Jesus said, "Whom the son sets free is free indeed.' Start declaring that over your own life."
These are both specific in their range; they are in reality texts that only believers can hold to as being true statements of what God will do through his saints. The first one: Philippians 4: 13; this is in context discussing Paul trials in prison for Christ sake. That does not mean all believers can not draw some encouragement in their own situations from his words. But since not one single person that follows these false teachers actually knows the scripture in its full context, it is hard to apply it to them. The second: Isaiah 54:17, once again, in context is speaking of the security of those whom are given eternal life in the Messiah. But it is not something that is innate in us that prevents us from being destroyed, it is God himself. The third: John 8:31-32, this is speaking of the two manners of existence for the believer: he was a slave to sin and corruption, but now is a slave of Christ. In whom he has been granted true freedom. This can not be used as a way of misleading the ignorant masses.
Now lets deal with the text that is used and cited:
It says in Philippians, Chapter 2 we have to work out our salvation. That means we have all those good things on the inside, but we must do our part to see those things bought to fruition in our lives. you have the seed of almighty God
And like that of the unreferenced passage, this referenced one is also misunderstood in a very bad fashion. Consider for a moment what it is saying, “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” In this text, we have something great being proclaimed and that is sanctification. It is true that we have a role in it, in as far as we produce good fruit as demonstration of the faith that is ours. But, as verse 13 states “it is God at work in us” meaning that we are not alone in this process we are being conformed to the manner that God is glorified in and through.
(2) The key is to retrain our mind to move away from negative condition conditioned response. I know some people who actually get depressed every morning. They don't like their jobs, they dread going to work, and every week, they develop Monday morning blues. Oddly enough, researchers purport that we are 70% more likely to have a heart attack Monday morning more than any other time of the week because people are more uptight and stressed out on Monday than any other day. In contrast, The apostle Paul said, "I have learnt to be more content no matter what state I am in."Think about that, Paul said "I have learnt to be more content" In other words, "this didn't happen automatically. I had to train my mind to be at peace. I had to train my mind to look on the bright-side. I had to train my mind to focus on the good." (Philippians 4:11)
We need to be very careful in what we say, when it comes to how we perceive particular situations and how God works in every day life. But in this statement we have an example of something being stated without explanation. Take note of these words,
The key is to retrain our mind to move away from negative condition conditioned response. I know some people who actually get depressed every morning. They don't like their jobs, they dread going to work, and every week, they develop Monday morning blues. Oddly enough, researchers purport that we are 70% more likely to have a heart attack Monday morning more than any other time of the week because people are more uptight and stressed out on Monday than any other day.
We are given a thought, “the key is to retrain our mind” but what is missing is how these preachers know that positive and negative things are not just apart of God larger purpose. In saying that we need to refocus, retain our minds and attentions is really akin to saying “I believe I deserve better because who I claim to be,” it is not the right attitude for a Christian to carry and this is why I do not believe this man is a Christian at all. Here is an idea of what he perceives the life of Christian to be : “I am blesses, I am talented, I am a winner because I am a child of God.” this is not biblical, nor is the correct attitude for a Christian to hold. Life here and now is nothing more than a vanishing mist, but life eternal is something to be more focused on.
Next, we are given some statistic “researchers purport that we are 70% more likely to have a heart attack Monday morning” While this maybe true, it certainly does not have any place in a sermon. Where the only goal is to bring the word of God in its totality to bare on the people you are pastoring. It is to be the word of God: nothing more, nothing less. Just the word expounded from the pulpit with the sole intention to build up the flock of God.
Now lets consider the one passage being utilised in this statement:
In contrast, The apostle Paul said, "I have learnt to be more content no matter what state I am in."Think about that, Paul said "I have learnt to be more content" In other words, "this didn't happen automatically. I had to train my mind to be at peace. I had to train my mind to look on the bright-side. I had to train my mind to focus on the good."
We should note that the way they try to join his thought with the conclusion of the passage from Philippians; is in fact a non-starter, it is has no connection. His words, “In contrast,” it needs to noted and seriously considered that this apparent ‘contrast' does not exist. Now lets us consider the passage in question: “I have learnt to be more content no matter what state I am in." Here is this off the wall quote, now lets consider the full context:
I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Here we have the portion of the passage which is important to this statement; it is important for us to see that Paul is speaking of his persecution, of his trials and imprisonment for his faith in Christ. And not at all apart of this idea of having a change in attitude by have a positive thought; it is in fact, important to see Paul did not deny that evil would come, he recognised that even in the midst of these things “Christ's grace was more sufficient for him” 2 Corinthians 12:7-12.
(3) The apostle Paul had great crowds following him. But time and time again, people became jealous; they got all stirred up and on several occasions ran him out of town. What sis Paul do? Did he get depressed and say, "God, I'm trying to my best, but nobody understands me."No, he shook the dust off his feet, he was saying in effect, Its your loss, not mine because I'm going do great things for God. I'm not gonna allow your rejection or your negative words to keep me from my destiny." ..... I love the scripture, "no weapon formed against me shall prosper but every tongue raised against us in judgement, you shall show to be in the wrong." You may have to endure people speaking against you, but if you can stay on the high road and keep doing your best. You will prove criticism invalid. (Isaiah 54 17)
In this statement, we have what seems to be a real irritating and undeniable problem that these preachers keeps doing. They continually insert a personal belief of his which has its roots in the new age ideal of speaking your thoughts into existence, name it and claim it teaching and philosophy into everything the bible has to teach. In this case, they are forcing a concept that had no reality in the first century culture of a Jewish background, neither in the Greek mindset. Notice what it says:
The apostle Paul had great crowds following him. But time and time again, people became jealous; they got all stirred up and on several occasions ran him out of town. What sis Paul do? Did he get depressed and say, "God, I'm trying to my best, but nobody understands me."No, he shook the dust off his feet, he was saying in effect, Its your loss, not mine because I'm going do great things for God. I'm not gonna allow your rejection or your negative words to keep me from my destiny." .
We should first say that it is true that the Apostle Paul had many crowds following him: many who were hostile towards his message, other who were more accepting of it. But it was not him who said “you know I will just ignore the hostility” His focus was for the gospel proclamation, no matter what attention it drew good or bad. He was led to it by the Spirit of God.
And to claim, that he was not letting anything distract him from his “destiny” is not the picture the bible paints. It is vital that we recognise as Christians, we are fulfilling God's will not our own; in other words, our own desires, passions and wants even destiny are not important. The only thing that is Christ being proclaimed, preached and taught in all his glory. That in a sense becomes our sole goal, we do not seek our own fulfilment.
I love the scripture, "no weapon formed against me shall prosper but every tongue raised against us in judgement, you shall show to be in the wrong." You may have to endure people speaking against you, but if you can stay on the high road and keep doing your best. You will prove criticism invalid.
Once again, this shows a great level of ignorance about what the bible teaches in regards to handling God's word correctly. First, the verse mentioned is isolated from its over all context, and is not being used correctly. It comes from Isaiah 54:17.. which reads:
“O afflicted one, storm-tossed and not comforted, behold, I will set your stones in antimony, and lay your foundations with sapphires. I will make your pinnacles of agate, your gates of carbuncles, and all your wall of precious stones. All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children. In righteousness you shall be established; you shall be far from oppression, for you shall not fear; and from terror, for it shall not come near you. If anyone stirs up strife, it is not from me; whoever stirs up strife with you shall fall because of you. Behold, I have created the smith who blows the fire of coals and produces a weapon for its purpose. I have also created the ravager to destroy; no weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed, and you shall refute every tongue that rises against you in judgement. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord and their vindication from me, declares the Lord.” (Isaiah. 54: 11-17)
It is very disheartening to see how such false teachers can rip apart chapters of the bible; in order to isolate one verse and falsely apply it to themselves and their little posy of fanatical followers. This chapter is about God's chosen method of salvation for his people, it is important to note that when a false teacher reads their own false beliefs and assumes that a verse can be utilised as support that he must consider the context for more understanding. Especially to see if it actually speaks to the issue he is raising.
And it gets worse when he says this: “You may have to endure people speaking against you, but if you can stay on the high road and keep doing your best. You will prove criticism invalid.” I cannot even begin to understand the abounds of logic this statement tries to leap. What Joel teaches is far from being biblical in nature; it is nothing more than heresy: his teaching become your own God by controlling your destiny through your thoughts, this is the same lie Satan told Eve in the garden. And such criticism is perfectly valid and perfectly warranted. Based on Titus 1:5-9 which states,
This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you— if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. For an overseer, as God's steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.
While they certainly fit in with one qualification that alone does not mean they are qualified to be pastors. They are poor judges of character and poor teachers of the word of God. A man of God is one who is able to teach the word of life “in season and out of season, correctly handling, correctly exegeting its meaning from the Spirit's perspective, from the writer perspective but not our own. And this is what they can not do and therefore, is not competent in this role.
What is it that counts as sound doctrine Romans 1-11, Ephesian 1-3 answers that... It is all about what Christ has done for his own people. Preach Christ and him crucified. Nothing more, nothing less just biblical exposition from Genesis to revelation: From creation, the fall, to salvation and redemption, and glorification. That is it all. The bible gives one command to preach and teach the full truth, the full amour of God. Man is a depraved wicked sinner And God is sovereign over salvation.
(4) Yes we should resist the enemy; we should resist sickness and other robbers of joy. Now, that doesn't mean that every minute we must be fighting and struggling. Some people seem to wear themselves out, constantly praying, resisting, and rebuking they beg, "please, God , you've got to change this situation. Change my husband. I don't like my Job. My child won't do right. No, turn all of that over to God. Your attitude should be: God, I’m trusting you . I know you are in control of my life. I may not understand everything that is happening, but I believe you have my best interests at heart. ..... The bible says to "be still, and know I am God." Notice, you need to get still. You need to be at peace with the place you are at right now. ..... Scriptures record, "those who have believed enter into the rest of God." Being in God's rest means that although you may have a problem, you trust in him to take care of it. (Psalms 46: 10, Hebrews 4: 3).
If as this suggests, that we can “resist the enemy” then we need to know the best way that they know how to do such a feat; because from what I have seen they have not even got the first clue about how to preach a great sermon that would provide us with some great biblical truth on Christ being the one who can. What makes this worse, however, is the fact that this is equated with being sick, the two things are not linked; although the latter may have been course by the former, it does not mean we can even win against Satan.
Here is an example of unbiblical teaching which needs to be corrected:
No, turn all of that over to God. Your attitude should be: God, I’m trusting you . I know you are in control of my life. I may not understand everything that is happening, but I believe you have my best interests at heart.
On what basis, do they assume to even think that God “has someone's best interests at heart,” what if God plan involves things that they may consider unfair and at time cruel and inhumane. Such as that of Joseph being sold into slavery, or the crucifixion of Christ. The bigger picture that they seem to not take on board is this: God's way are far superior to our own. And everything that happens in this life whether it is good or bad, right or wrong; it all is ultimately apart of God purpose, God's design, and is apart of his intention.
Notice what God says through the Apostle Paul:
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. Romans 8:28-30.
Everything that happens in this life is only meaningful in God plan for the elect “those whom God has set his love on,” granted that as a way of contingency some unbeliever may receive a partial blessing. But the real importance is that the elect will receive the full measure of the thing; good/ bad or right/wrong.
As the above passage says “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” In other words, good happens only in accords to the fact that God has chosen them and that God will bring them to glory: it is the same group all the way through, not number but not every single person.
Now lets consider the last portion of this statement:
the bible says to "be still, and know I am God." Notice, you need to get still. You need to be at peace with the place you are at right now. ..... Scriptures record, "those who have believed enter into the rest of God." Being in God's rest means that although you may have a problem, you trust in him to take care of it
Now here we have a classic misunderstanding of what the scripture is speaking to in both verses he has chosen to support his theories and ideals. What the bible is teaching is the transcendent peace that comes from knowing God as your saviour. In the first scripture mentioned, “be still and know that I am God” this is speaking to the universal peace that God himself will bring to his people, even in midst of great evil. And in the second scripture, it is speaking to the great peace the believer has in Christ: the savour. But in the wonderful promises in Hebrews, we also have several warning passages which are given as a way of driving us to ensure our salvation is secure and true and the current text is one such text.
Lets consider one passage on the great joy of the peace we have in Christ, our eternal saviour:
Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God (Romans 5: 1-2)
It is important for us to see that these preachers are not Christians as they claim; for if they were he would never-ever misapply or misrepresent scripture in such a horrific fashion like that of cults. The peace, love and affection a true Christian has for his master and lord would drive him to allow the bible to speak for itself. They have no gift, specifically the one this man claims to have “explaining or making it fit” today's market of seeker sensitive , miracle hungry false converts.
(5) You may be fighting some serious battles, but the good news is God is bigger than any situation you're facing. He can make a way even when it seems like there is no way. Don't quit living your life. Don't let that obstacle be the central focus of your existence. Keep pressing forward, trusting God,and knowing that as you believe, all things are possible. ...... The scriptures say, "weeping may endure for a night, but the joy comes in the morning." ......... the Bible says, "No man can snatch you out of God's hands." That means no sickness is too great, no enemy too powerful If he be for you, who dare be be against you? (Psalms 30: 5, John 10 :30 and Romans 8: 34)
In this statement we have some type psychotherapy technique disguised as some useful “Christian” advice. It does not work as it is devoid of the Spirit and the word of God. Consider the words of this first statement:
You may be fighting some serious battles, but the good news is God is bigger than any situation you're facing. He can make a way even when it seems like there is no way. Don't quit living your life. Don't let that obstacle be the central focus of your existence. Keep pressing forward, trusting God, and knowing that as you believe, all things are possible.
It is important to notice the huge leaps being made here, “You may be fighting some serious battles, but the good news is God is bigger than any situation you're facing.” Just what are we assume from this statement? What is this meant to convey God is bigger in what sense. And in this line of thinking, that man is the ultimate source of God power and is God's keeper. And only if man allows God to work, then God is able; but not in all circumstances. How does “God is bigger” even make a shred bit of difference when it is you who has to allow him to do something in the first place.
By this, I am not doubt that God cannot do great things in and through us; he even uses the good things and bad things that come our way to bring himself glory. And yes, indeed he even works wonders in many ways. But this is different to saying God is bigger than our problems, for there is no clear understanding of who God is in such a blank statement. How about these preachers exegete the scripture from Genesis to revelation; instead of giving their own advice and passing it as Christian truth?
Now lets consider the rest of this statement:
Don't let that obstacle be the central focus of your existence. Keep pressing forward, trusting God, and knowing that as you believe, all things are possible. The scriptures say, "weeping may endure for a night, but the joy comes in the morning." ......... the Bible says, "No man can snatch you out of God's hands." That means no sickness is too great, no enemy too powerful If he be for you, who dare be be against you?
Here is the real danger of applying out of context verses into a thought that has baring on the passages in the slightest. Notice his thought, “Don't let that obstacle be the central focus of your existence. Keep pressing forward, trusting God, and knowing that as you believe, all things are possible.” He is basically saying that we should move forward and forget such troubles that come in life; even if they are apart of our sanctification process: the though is a deadly one indeed!
Now lets see what these passage really speak too in full context,
The first scripture is Psalms 30: 5 …. in this psalm we have 12 verses and it is about God's protection of his people against all adversity. The second scripture is John 10 30 ….. which is not about unbelievers like the congregation at lake wood but true born again, spirit filled believers: the elect of God and Christ. And it actually say none can snatch them out of Christ hand, nor the fathers hand. The third scripture is Roman 8: 34 which in context is addressing the elect like the above scripture from John. And since none of this congregation to this point are even Christian, it is not about them.
(6) He knows the end from the beginning. God knows every trial we're ever going to face in future. He knows every difficulty we're ever going to go through. The good news is God already has the solution. He has already already made a way of escape. That tells me we don't have to live life worried. We don't have to go around all stressed out God has it all under control. When we're tempted to get negative and start complaining, we need to just turn it around. Our attitude should be "I know God is working on this problem. I know he's in the process of changing things, getting the right people lined up. softening the right hearts. And I believe God will not only bring me out, but he will bring me out better than I was before." When we have this kind of attitude, it takes all the pressure off us. We know God is in control. We know as long as we believe, God is all the while working for our good. (Become a better you, page 290. )
Here we have a really amazing statement coming from Joel and his mind; it is just a blank statement with no real biblical support for some of the assertions. And at the same time, for other assertions he is alluding to biblical truths and passages to which we see him reference in other parts of this work. But it makes one wonder if Joel has really thought things through and what it all means. Lets consider these different assertions:
He knows the end from the beginning. God knows every trial we're ever going to face in future. He knows every difficulty we're ever going to go through. The good news is God already has the solution. He has already already made a way of escape
Here we have two true statements; the first is “He knows the end from the beginning” there is no real explanation how this is the case; does Joel realise it is because he is the creator and due to this fact he has determine the course and pattern of all that exists. It is called “the decree of his council” And this is also true of the other statement about God knowing everything we 're going through or will go through.
But now notice his “plea” of good news: 'The good news is God already has the solution. He has already made a way of escape.' Just what is this “solution” and “escape” and from what are we escaping from and unto? Where is the fact that each and every one of us are thoroughly corrupt by sin and are bound by its power which is under Satan's control from Birth. And only a people have been chosen in Christ; the elect are redeemed by Christ upon the cross through regeneration of the Holy Spirit.
Why does none of these thing get a mention in this “good news” statement of Joel's preaching.
That tells me we don't have to live life worried. We don't have to go around all stressed out God has it all under control. When we're tempted to get negative and start complaining, we need to just turn it around.
It does not matter what it tells you Joel; the sheer reality is this: you have no clue about what it really means; being deceived by your own falsehood has blinded you to the real truth. Where in the bible does it teach that “we don't have to be worried about life,” there is an important thing to consider in this: Our only focus is to be found in the fulfilment of Christ promise of full eternal life. But what is a sheer example of idiocy; he says “not to worry about this life, while his whole focus is on what :the best life now and becoming a better you” mean that he is telling his flock to concern about now.
Our attitude should be "I know God is working on this problem. I know he's in the process of changing things, getting the right people lined up. softening the right hearts. And I believe God will not only bring me out, but he will bring me out better than I was before." When we have this kind of attitude, it takes all the pressure off us. We know God is in control. We know as long as we believe, God is all the while working for our good.
Does this kind of attitude really serve the focus that they think it does; consider the fact that they constantly tell us that “God cannot act on anything unless we allow him by activating out faith.” If that is the case, he is limiting God through his acts of human faith. This shows that the above statement is not the full story in Joel's thinking.
It would only take the “focus off of us” if we actually preach the unadulterated truth of the Gospel; whereby the glory of salvation is fully expounded upon from a depth of understanding. But that is as far as is the moon is from the sun--- to having Joel preach the the gospel in its fullest manner. All is preaches is himself in a feel good manner and a false message of you as God of your own destiny “word of faith.”
(7) I know it may happen tomorrow. If it doesn't happen tomorrow, it may happen the next day. But whenever it does or doesn't happen, it's not going to steal my joy; I’m not gonna live my life frustrated. I know God is in control and at the exact right time, it's going to come to pass. And in the meantime, I'm going to relax and enjoy my life. you've got to believe God is in control. believe God is working behind the scenes of your life. The scriptures say, 'God is effectually at work in those who believe.' Notice, his power is activated only when we believe God can work in your behalf your whole life time and you never really get the full benefit of it because you didn't believe. Sure, you may get a break here or there, but when you really believe, when you get up in the morning expecting good things, you're going to see more of God's favour. you're going to see what his been doing behind the scene. (James 5:16)
Here is a real example of twisting God's word to fit a preconceived idea about God; but first we should note how he starts with an a really close definition of who God is:
I know it may happen tomorrow. If it doesn't happen tomorrow, it may happen the next day. But whenever it does or doesn't happen, it's not going to steal my joy; I’m not gonna live my life frustrated. I know God is in control and at the exact right time, it's going to come to pass. And in the meantime, I'm going to relax and enjoy my life. you've got to believe God is in control. believe God is working behind the scenes of your life.
I say “real close” not to make it seem as though everything else they said is going to be correct; based on everything he has said thus far I would say 99.9 % is not correct. And in some statement he almost make a good and true point; in this statement it is “God is in control and know the exact right time” unfortunately, he is not specific on what he is referring to but that is not important.
Here is what the bible teaches about timing of all manners of things, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). In other words, everything has been set duration for it's existence; this includes even all the creation from humans to the planets and the universe. And this is something which both the bible and science declare to be the truth.
But now lets deal with the scripture that he twists to his destruction which is from James 5:
The scriptures say, 'God is effectually at work in those who believe.' Notice, his power is activated only when we believe God can work in your behalf your whole life time and you never really get the full benefit of it because you didn't believe.
Here we have the one scripture that is used to try and support the above thought; and it has to be noted it is not even the right scripture to attach to this thought. Isaiah 46:9-10 is more in line; it states “I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,’ But now what of James 5:
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? 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. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
A careful examination of this section reveals to us that God will heal those he desires independently of man's efforts and actions. It is a text that is saying that God will commune with you through prayer, and we are to give thanks for all things he graciously bestows upon us. Basically when dealing with a hard section of scripture like this; we need to consider the passage as whole to draw some understanding.
First, it is a single individual in question verse 13. Then it is the leaders of the congregation in verses 14-15, and final it is the whole congregation coming together as a unit for any who are in a particular situation like sickness verse 16.
Now let's consider these preachers interpretation of the single verse, “Notice, his power is activated only when we believe God can work in your behalf your whole life time and you never really get the full benefit of it because you didn't believe.” This is another interesting way to say God is limited to man's approval or request of him. But it gets more complex: in the second point he say “God is working even when you do believe.” Which is it is he limited to ones needs and cannot do a thing unless you give him permission or is he in fact working without our knowledge and belief? The thought is not clearly laid out.
(8) Friend, God has great things in store for you. Don't get stuck in a rut and settle for mediocrity, bad habits, or bad attitudes. Pay attention to the still small voice on the inside. Deal with issues that God brings to light and learn to obey quickly. Remember how high you go in life will be directly related to how obedient you are. The scriptures say, “to who much is given, much is required.” God is preparing you for greater things. He's going to take you further than you thought possible, so don't be surprised when he asks you to think better of yourself and think accordingly. (Luke 12:48)
In this statement we have these preachers making their trademark argument which they use in most of their presentations as a way of conning the Spiritually ignorant. It states, “mediocrity, bad habits, or bad attitudes.” This is not the gospel of peace, it is the words of a deceiver. This man has no biblical right to even teach supposed “Christians” based on the way he handle the word of grace, the sword of the Spirit he should be a shamed of himself, and he should step down from his “supposed” place as a teacher of the faith.
Notice, again what he says but this time in its full manner:
Friend, God has great things in store for you. Don't get stuck in a rut and settle for mediocrity, bad habits, or bad attitudes. Pay attention to the still small voice on the inside. Deal with issues that God brings to light and learn to obey quickly. Remember how high you go in life will be directly related to how obedient you are.
How does he know that God has great things in “store for these people” without going to the scriptures and twisting it to his own destruction; is Joel able to produce one single passage that say God has a great plan in store for those sinful degenerates he is teaching this lie too. I suppose he could go to the blessing in Deuteronomy 29 or Jeremiah 29:11 but in both cases this is not a universe thing. In fact, a close examination we find it is to the Israelites alone and not everyone.
And just what does he mean by this bizarre terminology... “ Pay attention to the still small voice on the inside.” this is just hard to unscramble, what is he trying to say. I know one thing for sure it is not what the bible teaches. Here is what the word of God teaches about the human heart and reasoning: due to the fall in Adam, man has becomes corrupt in nature and slave to his own evil heart (John 8: 31-34, Romans 3:10-18).
Now notice what Christ says, “But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander. These are what defile a person. But to eat with unwashed hands does not defile anyone.” Matthew 15: 19-20. It is vital that a Christian gets the true picture of humanity; because of the fall even our own reason is to be seen as corrupt, notice what Paul says, “See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.” Colossians 2:8.
Therefore, no matter how much these preachers say it is good to listen to “still small voice,” it is pure deception; as it is going to lead you to be like that boastful Pharisee rather than the humble tax collector in Luke 18. That man was boastful due to achievements and that lead him exalt himself and in a similar fashion that voice will do the same as leads you away from God and Christ and to you own selfishness. And it will incur God wrath.
Now for the last portion of this statement:
The scriptures say, “to who much is given, much is required.” God is preparing you for greater things. He's going to take you further than you thought possible, so don't be surprised when he asks you to think better of yourself and think accordingly.
I wont be speaking to his application as it is not even worth it; I Just want the passage to speak for itself:
“Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning, and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the wedding feast, so that they may open the door to him at once when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes. Truly, I say to you, he will dress himself for service and have them recline at table, and he will come and serve them. If he comes in the second watch, or in the third, and finds them awake, blessed are those servants! But know this, that if the master of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have left his house to be broken into. You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” Peter said, “Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for all?” And the Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom his master will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions. But if that servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed in coming,’ and begins to beat the male and female servants, and to eat and drink and get drunk, the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will cut him in pieces and put him with the unfaithful. And that servant who knew his master's will but did not get ready or act according to his will, will receive a severe beating. But the one who did not know, and did what deserved a beating, will receive a light beating. Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.
There is not much exegesis needed, except the fact, that this is a judgement day text about Christ's return... It is in a similar vain to Matthew chapters 24-25, Luke 19:11-27. It is only dealing with one theme that of course has nothing to do with Joel's application.
(9) Some people say, “I'm depressed because my parents we so depressed,” or “I'm hot tempered just like my father.” “I'm a worry-wart because my mother always worried.” No, you can change. You are a child of God, so you have the greatest power in the universe inside of you. You can break any addiction, overcome any stronghold, you can defeat any bondage. The scripture says, “greater is he that's in you than he that's in the world.” That means there is no obstacle on this planet that you cannot overcome. You can fulfil your God-given destiny. (1 John 4:4)
Here is the first statement which really fails to deal with the real underline issues at the foundational level. Notice what he says,
Some people say, “I'm depressed because my parents we so depressed,” or “I'm hot tempered just like my father.” “I'm a worry-wart because my mother always worried.”
This is the reason why therapy does not work; the “trained” psychiatrist is not sufficient in the role to properly and adequately determine what the real issue is and neither are these preachers “trained” to give a real definitive answer. Here is the answer God gives to us through his true picture of humanity: All men are born sinful and depraved; therefore, the reason why people are “depressed” “hot tempered” and “worry-wart” is not because of their parents. It is because they like their parent, like that of all the so called psychiatrists .. we are sinful human being and sin effects every aspect of life from our emotions, to our actions.
On top of this, the church has far too many unqualified rabbits running around acting as if they are teachers, therapists and counsellors when they are not; these preachers are a danger to the church as they are teaching things contrary to the scripture, including prosperity gospel, word of faith heresy, new age philosophy. And for these things being proclaimed from his pulpit he is under a strict condemnation as they are not from God, and are not even winning people to Christ (as it is popularly said, but not biblical seen). Those under him are the children of wrath.
Hence, they are not “a child of God” as these preachers are so fond of teaching his deceived: ones who believes what he states and teaches. Next, it states this,
You have the greatest power in the universe inside of you. You can break any addiction, overcome any stronghold, you can defeat any bondage. The scripture says, “greater is he that's in you than he that's in the world.” That means there is no obstacle on this planet that you cannot overcome. You can fulfil your God-given destiny.
Interesting, not only is there some great power in these people (an undefined power); but now there is also a universe inside of them too. Perhaps it is that land of imaginings that they talk of so much that really is just their own hype. Yet I have one question: have they broke this “addiction” overcome this “strong-hold” and defeated this “bondage"? The one thing they are not to preach HIMSELF as the example as he continually does.
Now lets consider the verse he quote and misapplies in this statement:
Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already. Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. They are from the world; therefore they speak from the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us; whoever is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of error. (1 john 4)
It is rather ironic that they would quote from this section; and yet not see the blatant folly of doing such a thing. For starters this whole section of scripture is about discerning the spirits; which leads us to ask whether they actually has read the passages. Because it is about knowing if someone is in Christ based on what they teach.
Notice what is said in verse 2 “By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God,” it is important that we consider what this is teaching us; in the history of the church there was a group called the Gnostic's based on various beliefs they held too: they denied Christ has a physical existence and was just a spirit being. And this is what is being condemned by John. And when you consider what it is that Joel teaches and the new age implications it is very similar in nature: at it's core the word of faith denies Jesus humanity. But they also deny his divinity as well by referring it as the “Christ consciousness,” by claiming that it lives in them too. This is certainly the kind of thing Joel must have in mind.
(10) The fact is, God has put a well of joy on the inside of each one of us. Our circumstances may be negative; things may not be going our way. But if we can learn to tap into this joy, we can still be happy. We can live with enthusiasm in spite of what comes against us. One of the keys is found in Ephesians 5:18. It says "ever be filled with the Spirit" Notice, you don't just get filled one time and then you will live happily ever-after. The scripture says to be ever filled. That means we can be filled on a continual basis. How can we do this? The next verse reveals the secret: "by speaking to yourself in psalms, by making melody in your heart, and by being grateful." In other words, the way to keep your life full of joy and the way to overcome the pressures of life is by keeping a song of praise in your heart (Ephesians 5:18-19)
In this statement we have some troubling points being put forth; and it is based on a misunderstand of a great text of scripture, that of Ephesians 5:18-19. Notice this first claim:
The fact is, God has put a well of joy on the inside of each one of us. Our circumstances may be negative; things may not be going our way. But if we can learn to tap into this joy, we can still be happy. We can live with enthusiasm in spite of what comes against us.
Of the many blunders in his books, we find ourselves being cast one of the greatest that he has ever offered. This claim is evidently not the case, when we consider the fact that God has not put a “well of joy” in every single person's heart: for these preachers to even assume such a thing would mean that he himself is omniscient making himself like God. The lie the serpent told to Eve in the garden... when he said “you become like God,” nowhere in all of scripture does it promise that God has promise joy for any indiscriminate purpose.
He then follows this up with this statement, “Our circumstances maybe negative, things may not be going our way” it is as if he has realised that not everything he teaches is true, and therefore, he must rectify the situation. But he does not have a good understanding of the bible: for if he did he would know that apart of God's decree is that the church through the ages would be in the midst of trials and tests as a part of its endurance. Read 1 peter 4 from the beginning to the end for clarification on this matter.
Then he follows that up with this statement, “But if we can learn to tap into this joy, we can still be happy.” I just want to know what does he mean by 'tap into' as for the life of me this is not biblical language and it seem to be more heretical word of the faith silliness.
One of the keys is found in Ephesians 5:18. It says "ever be filled with the Spirit" Notice, you don't just get filled one time and then you will live happily ever-after. The scripture says to be ever filled. That means we can be filled on a continual basis. How can we do this? The next verse reveals the secret: "by speaking to yourself in psalms, by making melody in your heart, and by being grateful." In other words, the way to keep your life full of joy and the way to overcome the pressures of life is by keeping a song of praise in your heart.
So now they are going to give us the secret knowledge of how one taps into this “well of joy” he is peddling off as if it is truth. And what is the answer! To rip passage apart and make them fit a preconceived and preconditioned notion. Great way to show you actually understand the bible! Now lets consider the passage in full context:
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ. Ephesians 5: 15-18)
Now we have the full section, what is it we learn: firstly, there are 3 contrasts, 3 commands, and 3 contexts. And in the 2 and 3 parts they each lead of the last part of the previous statement. Such as the 3 commands lead off, they are defining the statement in the last contrast.: “be filled with the Holy spirit, is a manner of the worship... therefore the 3 commands found next verses.
Next, we need to understand why it is not good for us to rip this apart assume a foreign meaning. The contrast in this sense... “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,” is speaking of a false pagan practice of getting in a drunken orgy and thinking it is a worship manner.
This is exactly how we come to understand it through exegesis, here is a deeper look:
“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,"
the last one, "And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit," here we need to have some understanding of the culture to get a real meaning; in that time much of the pagan religious worship involved getting drink; it was a way to commune with the false gods. And it is at this level Paul is contrasting; in the manner or form of worship. One leads to ungodliness of all forms, the other is led to purity of worship and conduct because it is by the Spirit of God. Therefore, this is not speaking of having a drink, nor getting drunk (although the later is clearly a sin).
Therefore, these preachers misunderstanding of this passage is clear as day light; and it needs to be seen as a gigantic error on his part. Due to his lack of biblical commitment.
