Sunday 31 August 2008

I love to see waterfalls

This year has brought some heavy rain in August. Consequently the waterfalls in Yorkshire have been most spectacular and impressive. I love to hear the water surging over the falls and down into the pools below. I have seen the mighty Niagara Falls a few times, and have been on the Maid of the Mist and behind the Niagara Falls twice. These were memorable and enjoyable experiences that I would not have wanted to miss. I wish everyone could see and experience the Niagara Falls at close quarters. It is something to see before you die. The photograph at the front of this blog shows Janet's Foss, in North Yorkshire. It is a very beautiful setting near Malham Gorge and Gordale Scar, which has lovely waterfalls.

Sunday 24 August 2008

Todd Bentley's Lakeland is called Fakeland

The ministry of Todd Bentley at Lakeland, Florida, has been called Fakeland by Christians who believe that this was not a work of God. A genuine work of the Holy Spirit will result in the conviction of sin, righteousness and judgment. There will be guidance into all truth. Jesus will be glorified. RT Kendall's recent assessment, in Ministry Today and in his website, is correct and shows mature Christian discernment. RT writes:

First, never once have I heard a clear message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ from the Lakeland platform – except when a guest speaker did it. Second, when people were being baptized in the name of the Father, the Son and ‘Bam – bam’, it both trivialized the Trinity and baptism itself. This is serious, serious trivializing. Third, if you were to ask how much a fear of God and conviction of sin emanated from these services – on a scale of 1 to 100 – I would say zero.

http://www.rtkendallministries.com/index.html



We should be concerned about the lack of biblical teaching, the weak presentation of the glorious Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and the weird antics on stage. It is really sad to hear of the marital problems that Todd is now having. Many are praying for restoration and reconciliation and for Todd to preach the true Gospel when he has opportunities. Todd clearly needs help. I hope he gets the right guidance.

A recent statement reveals further problems.

We wish to acknowledge, however, that since our last statement from the Fresh Fire Board of Directors, we have discovered new information revealing that Todd Bentley has entered into an unhealthy relationship on an emotional level with a female member of his staff. In light of this new information and in consultation with his leaders and advisors, Todd Bentley has agreed to step down from his position on the Board of Directors and to refrain from all public ministry for a season to receive counsel in his personal life. On behalf of the Fresh Fire leadership and the Board of Directors we wish to apologize to our friends and partners and to the larger body of Christ and to ask for your forgiveness. We are truly sorry for the pain many of you must feel and so regret that in the midst of great revival, the enemy has found a way into our camp. To those who have stood by us, we wish to thank you for what in many cases has been years of support. Thank you for your financial giving towards the vision of this ministry, and thank you especially for your prayers.

We may not agree with this ministry but our prayers are needed.

Dedham

Dedham
River Stour