A Small Portion

of the
Systemic Corruption
of
American Charismatic Christendom

Introduction
This document outlines some of the most egregious errors that are part of the pervasive paradigm, which
permeates much of charismatic Christendom. It highlights (sometimes humorously) the interior thinking and
motivations in Christian Leadership. Clever Christian marketers exploit Christian Leaders by bombarding
them with compromising messages and methods. The marketing of Gods blessings paradigm has swept
through much of independent American charismatic Christendom and is invading much of main stream
denominational Christendom as well.
The perverse (from an authentic Christian point of view) emphasis on personal fulfillment in this life now could
have been the central point of this document. It has taken off through Christendom. And no wonder, the world
loves to think that whatever they want, is the exact same thing that God wants for them. Many people like to think
that if they desire a big house, fancy car, successful career, and a big fat bank account, God does too. They
picture Him on tip toe at the edge of Heaven, just waiting for them to say the right Bible verse enough times, give
enough money, attend enough meetings, learn the special techniques outlined in the Christian self help book, so
He can pour out a big blessing on them.
Many Americans have been led to believe that since they found someone who calls themselves a man of God,
and he helps them to justify their self-centeredness, all is O.K.
People love to think that their personal fleshly desires can be baptized, resurrected, called Gods will, even His
eternal purpose for them, and that they can have the best of all worlds and Gods eternal smile on their lives to
boot. American religious hucksters have taped into this desire and are catering to it to the tune of billions of
dollars a year. The trend line indicates things are only getting worse
The size of the Christian retail industry in total is estimated to be $3.75 billion; up from $2.6 billion in 1991.
The Christian entertainment industry is estimated to be $3 billion. Christian music owns a 4.8% share of the
market country owns about 10% and is the industry's fastest-growing genre.
Since 1980, Christian books sales have quadrupled an industry now estimated at $1 billion, which doesn't
include Bibles.
The result, many popular American preachers have discovered new ways to help people to discover and then
justify their selfishness. They sell them books and tapes chock full of self-help antidotes for obtaining whatever
people want. They lead people to believe that by following certain Christian principals their base selfish desires
can be harnessed for obtaining Gods best for them now.

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The way the Gospel is sold in the multi-billion dollar Christian marketplace requires a few minor modifications to
the message.
Christians embracing the cross
Instead of preaching and teaching people to lay down their lives, pick up their cross, and following Jesus, they are
taught to buy a golden cross and wear it as Christian Jewelry. They are taught to rationalize this purchase
(sometimes sold as a sacrificial gift with a portion of the sale going to help some worthy cause) so they can be
a silent witness or as a reminder of what Jesus has done. Which in and of itself is good, but only if the reality
of dieing daily, taking up ones cross, and following Jesus is actually being taught, learned, and lived.
Some people would describe the growing Christian market place, as Isnt it great! More people are buying
more things that will feed their faith. You know, the things they buy will cause them to grow spiritually, and that will
eventually produce a greater impact on the non-Christian culture.
However the inverse is actually happening. People buy the Jesus Junk thinking that they have fulfilled Gods
will for their lives, when in fact they have not.
It is much like people buying exercise equipment, diet plans, or fad diet books, thinking that if they buy the
equipment, plan, or book, they will have purchased the discipline to exercise and eat right.
Clever marketers create an ever increasing numbers of fad diets and ingenious equipment for stupid, lazy
Americans every year, However, the number of overweight people in America, and the number of unused pieces
of exercise equipment, failed diet programs, and unused fad diet books silently scream at undisciplined,
overweight consumers.
Christians feasting on the Word
The people are told that if they come to this church, or that seminar, if they buy this book or that CD, they will be
feasting on the word of God in its fullness. Prepared by culinary masters (apostles, prophets, teachers),
complete with signs and wonders for side dishes, and personal prophetic words & activations for desert.
The Christian consumers eat this stuff up and think they are growing in Christ. They come to believe that they
have a highly developed pallet, able to distinguish all types of wonderfully subtle flavors, textures and aromatic
food characteristics.
What in fact many Christians are really consuming is ever increasing amounts of Jesus junk food, prepared by
compromised charlatans posing as apostles, prophets, and teachers. Instead of seeking the Lord and hearing
from heaven, their meal preparation amounts to opening up prepackaged hype, with psychological manipulation
and trickery as side dishes and bogus prophetic words for desert. The food they are being served is full of
additives, fillers, artificial flavors, artificial colors, and of course lots of sugar. (See Jeremiah 23)
The result is predictable. Spiritually fat Christians that have been taught to believe that Jesus junk food is the
meat of the Word. Christian consumers that cant make a distinction between quality, nourishing, healthfully
prepared food and scraps of extremely processed fast food and candy.
Because they are never taught to be doers of the word, they get very little exercise and become quite obese
with a false sense of smug self-satisfaction, thinking that because they have been to the latest conference, and
have received a personal prophetic word they are truly Gods special and anointed ones. Some even perceive
that they have become mature in Christ. However, all they really have been taught to do is to consume more of
the word by buying more Jesus junk food. (Christian self-help books, tapes, CDs, DVDs, conferences, retreats,
seminars, concerts, etc)
The world sees it all happening and laughs!
But that is another document.
This document places emphasis on the segment of Christendom that aspires to supernatural signs and
wonders, personal prophetic words from the Lord, healings, etc
The segment of Christendom that places an inordinate emphasis on the prophetic & supernatural has bred a
pervasive Christian culture of showmanship and hucksterism that disappoints believers and distorts sincere faith.
It is breeding ever-increasing levels of deception, and has robbed people of the ability to make distinctions
between spiritual reality and emotional manipulation. The believers are left unable to discriminate Truth from
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falsehood. Some are taught that they shouldnt even attempt to make those distinctions because that would be
judging. However, that is not what the Bible teaches
But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. (1Co 2:15 KJV)
The verb judgeth in the Greek is, anakrino, which is defined by Thayer as
1) examine or judge
1a) to investigate, examine, enquire into, scrutinise, sift, question
1a1) specifically in a forensic sense of a judge to hold an investigation
1a2) to interrogate, examine the accused or witnesses
1b) to judge of, estimate, determine (the excellence or defects of any person or thing

For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first
principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For
every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat
belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to
discern both good and evil. (Heb 5:12-14 KJV)
Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust, and not before the saints?
Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye
unworthy to judge the smallest matters? Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more
things that pertain to this life? If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge
who are least esteemed in the church. I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man
among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren? (1Co 6:1-5 KJV)

Today, many believers are having a hard time discerning correctly. They cannot tell the difference between
genuine men of God and hucksters, between the authentic prophetic and contrived flattery, between a true sign or
wonder and a simple parlor trick, between stage presence and Gods Anointing, between a rock concert with
Christian music and worship in Spirit and truth.
Because Christian Leaders have abandoned a deep reverence for God and His Word, and instead have
embraced whatever fad will fill the pews and make themselves popular, deception and trickery have found
unguarded, wide open fields full of fertile soil for all manner of deceptive evil.
The worst part, (if there can be a worst part) is that most of the people dont even realize the trickery that is
happening. The Christian consumers who imagine themselves as wise & genuine disciples, are being stripped of
their finances and are having their faith debased. Their genuine child like faith is being corrupted, as they are
being taught to trade genuine spirituality and eternal rewards for frivolities and pseudo spiritual amusements.
And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul. (Psa 106:15 KJV)
Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the
Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. (Joh 6:27 KJV)

Origins
The historical roots of deception in large portions of the body of Christ especially the "charismatic movement"
have their origins in a desire to see God bless and authenticate His Word.
Some of the leaders that promote deceptions are sincere, but operate with mixed motives that amount to a desire
to promote a certainty that "God is with us", "God is in this", "God approves of us and those we partner with. Far
too many people are led to believe by pastors and leaders that if you are with us and the people and ministries
we endorse you too can be part of God's great big next move"
It all starts innocently enough, but I think it is almost a pandemic in charismatic Christendom that selfish ambition,
pride, etc... often born of insecurity take root in the heart of "ministers" trying to "prove" themselves in our
"success" driven, results oriented, "mega-church" culture.

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I believe the motivations in many pastors and leaders are mixed, some pure some impure. The fact of the
matter is all people are mixed in their motives. That is why Jesus and the apostles constantly tell us to take
heed, test yourself, prove all things, etc.
The winds of doctrine and the deceptions they breed begin with a belief that there is an "easy fix to all that ails
promise that is delivered by some Pastor, Prophet, or Man of God.
Its been going on for years. Probably from the beginning of time, starting with the quick fix offered by Satan to
Adam & Eve in the garden. Promises to make one wise, good for food, be like God.
Nothing really changes does it?
Think about the last 40 years, wind after wind has blown through, you name it Shepherding Movement, "faith
message", "prophetic message", "intercessory watchman message", "Laughing revival", "signs & wonders healing revival", "Bridal paradigm", bla, bla, bla
The fads or winds of doctrine, all have the same characteristics. They all follow the same bell curve shaped
pattern of adoption, growth, maturation and decline. They all usually have about a 10-20 year life cycle.

Adoption
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine,
by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; (Eph 4:14 KJV)

How does the wind of doctrine begin to blow?

Its hard to say what comes first, the chicken or the egg. The unhappiness in human souls that results from
following these winds of doctrine taught by cunning deceivers leaves people desolate. The desolation leaves
them open for some kind of quick fix. Hucksters are only too glad to deliver a solution, so off it goes
Usually, the "big production" starts off with some "great new thing that God is doing". The so-called "pastors" or
"leaders" hear about some "new" thing that is "happening" over there at some church, or at some conference, or
some place.
Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not. For there shall arise false
Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible,
they shall deceive the very elect. (Mat 24:23-24 KJV)
The people and their "leaders" say ...There is a new "breeze of God blowing across the land" "revival is coming".
"Wow! Yippee! Finally God is ready to move."
The "buzz' starts to grow. Mythological tall tales emerge that talk about "miraculous healings", "massive church
growth", "trips to heaven", "accurate prophetic words", "transferable anointings", "Apostolic succession
anointings" you name it - they sell it.
Amazingly, these desperate leaders and pastors trying to keep the flock that they are supposed to watch out
for, filled with faith and walking with the Lord actually think that the "crazier" it is - the more likely it is to "be of
God". In addition, although many often hate to admit it, they unconsciously know they need to keep the pews
filled and the offering plates full, in order to keep the church growing. Plus, the pesky competition for members
from the many popular churches in the area, cause them to have to at least examine the latest teaching or
method. Thus the seduction starts.
Then they read books about it, attend conferences on it, hear practitioners of it, go to workshops to learn
principals on it, etc... Soon it is being conversed about and preached on.
The most boisterous, eager to please, people - zealously embrace the teaching and try to exemplify it. Soon
many of the people are abuzz with the great new things they are "experiencing". The problem is that although
many of the early adopters are often sincere, far too much of their experiences are contrived and fake.

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The leaders and pastors observe all this thinking maybe its true. But they almost always initially have some
level of resistance, that causes them to think, its good, or true, except for this or that issue. But then
Along comes some Nationally Recognized Minister of the Gospel (huckster), and promises them some Big
Thing From God" (snake oil), that is the wonderful magical elixir to cure all that ails them and their church. If they
will just get in relationship with (get on the band wagon) with all the other "illustrious leaders" (puffed up
Christian celebrities) that have bought into the program-or paradigm (web of deception, snare of systematized
error). The "illustrious leaders" are often called prophets, servants of God, apostles of this or that move of
God or message, etc
The leaders and pastors are told that if they join in, then, they too can be distinguished and influential, and
have an astonishing ministry. They can be part of the the network of the up-to-the-minute, authentic apostolic
establishing Gods government across the church or The intercessors of America the cutting edge watchmen
that will revolutionize the entire world, The deliverance power team wiping out the demonic from both people
and cities. Again, you name it, they sell it
What is the pastors price of admission? Glad you asked. The pastors and leaders have to offer up the people in
their flocks as potential customers to the National Ministers (hucksters). In other words, the pastors have to
say to the hucksters we will open our pulpit to you so you can sell your wares (ideology, theology, books,
tapes, CDs, DVDs, seminars, handbooks, conferences, etc). The pastors rationalize that what the hucksters
sell, is what they want for their people. So the pastors tell the hucksters We want you to give to our people
what youve become so well known for.
The Faustian deal works like this: the hucksters say you trade us access to your people and we will give you
fame, acknowledgement, recognition, access to the network of the super men of God we will let our star
power come to rest on you, so you can grow in stature before your people. Plus, if youre good enough, we will
take you along with us on our marvelous mystery tour, so you can be a big star too. Plus, all of your people will
get some kind of new miracle, healing, anointing, blessing, deliverance, joy, peace, or whatever we happen to
be selling did I say selling I meant to say ministering. Sorry. Peter described the Faustian deal in other
words, through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you.
But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among
you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring
upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the
way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words
make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation
slumbereth not. (2Pe 2:1-3 KJV)
Although the hucksters dog & pony shows1 "look" and "sound" like the real thing, and maybe even use Biblical
names or concepts, they are nothing more than what Ephesians 4 calls "winds of doctrine", promoted by crafty
deceivers that manipulate by slight of hand and perform cheap parlor tricks. (How many times have you seen
"legs of uneven length" "miraculously" be lengthened). Charlatans do these types of hokey tricks all the time. Or
how about some of those ingratiating "prophetic words"? These things shame Jesus and debase His disciples.
1

Dog and pony show From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Dog and pony show was a colloquial term used in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to refer to small traveling circuses that
toured through small towns and rural areas. The name derives from the typical use of performing dogs and ponies as the main attractions of the events.
Performances were typically held in open-air arenas, such as race tracks or municipal parks, and in localities that were too small or remote to attract
bigtop performances. In the latter part of the 20th century, the original meaning of the term has largely been lost.
The term has come to mean any type of presentation or display that is somewhat pathetically contrived or overly intricate, or put on for purposes of
gaining approval for a program, policy, etc. It is now often used in business to describe a period immediately prior to the initial public offering of a stock
issue when the company's management travels extensively around the country to personally present their business to potential investors and thus
attempt to create interest in purchasing shares of the IPO. See also Medicine show

Similar to the fabled gypsy bands of old Europe, medicine shows were traveling horse and buggy teams which peddled miracle medications and other
products between various entertainment acts. Their precise origins unknown, medicine shows were most common in the United States in the 19th
century (though they continued up to World War II). The product most commonly associated with medicine shows is an elixir (also known as snake oil)
which was touted to cure diseases, smooth facial wrinkles, remove stains in clothing, prolong life, or cure any number of common ailments.
Entertainment often included a freak show, a flea circus, musical acts, magic tricks, jokes, and storytelling.- Medicine show From Wikipedia, the free
encyclopedia
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They dont genuinely glorify Him. The real miracle is that people even believe the various hucksters and come
back for more week after week, seminar after seminar, conference after conference. The reality is nothing really
happens except hype, deception, book sales, and the collection of offerings.
Incidentally, the word feigned in 2 Peter 2:3 is the Greek adjective plastos which Thayer defines as 1) moulded,
formed, as from clay, wax, or stone, 2) feigned. The word is what we get the English word plastic from. The
idea is that they make something look like the real thing, or mould their words to be shaped into something they
want. Marvin R. Vincent, D.D. author of Vincents Word Studies says The idea is, therefore, of words moulded at
will to suit their vain imaginations. How often have you heard preachers quoting Gods Word, and then
expounding on those same Words with the most distorted, twisted interpretations to suit the speakers objectives?
How often have you heard the politically correct positive Gospel which turns or twists everything to fit into the
paradigm of positive success principals formulation?
Interiorly, the leaders and pastors want to be "champions for God". They want to be anointed men of faith &
power. They want to wave their hands over the sick and miraculously heal them. They want to be like all the
people that come around with their "dog & pony shows", "selling" books and tapes, "operating in the
supernatural", etc... They want to see God glorified. They want to see what they have been preaching vindicated,
both for themselves and the people they have been leading. They are tortured because they know some of it
(the method or message) is puffery and hype but they want it anyway. They are mixed because they want the
authentic, but they know most of the people will fall for the diluted and cant tell the difference anyway. They are
compelled because the modern church has been reduced to competing fiefdoms fighting for market share trying to obtain allegiance and money from an often fickle, lukewarm people, burdened with the cares of this world
and desire for other things.
By this time, the whole Christian marketing machine is pitching the wonders of the new thing. Charisma
magazine has done stories on it, along with the tantalizing tales of miraculous whatever. deliverances,
healings, miracles, intercessions, whatever. And lets not forget TBN. They have produced stories on the new
thing. You remember TBN - that Christian television network full of slick parasitic moneygrubbers, in their shiny
$3000 suits, touting the miraculous ways God can produce a financial miracle for you if you simply send in a
gift
The leaders and pastors dont want to be left out, after all this thing is really big, and besides, the last really
big thing is kind of fizzling out the people are losing interest, attendance is down, some of the trendsetters of
the congregation are leaving and going to XYZ Church that have embraced the new thing.
The competition for members is so great, so every church has to have the latest and greatest, if they want to stay
cutting edge and appeal to the people. Nobody wants to have some dead church.
Of course the leaders and pastors know they are supposed to make disciples that obey Gods Word. But they
also know how difficult that is, and besides, that requires too much rebuking and reproving. So instead they
embrace the new and improved modern way of making disciplesthey imagine that they can simply just
update and improve on Jesus and Pauls methods. Their internal dialog begins to run along lines that say We will
entertain I mean train the people with miracle conferences and healing services. How can we afford it
though? These things take big marketing budgets dont they? Ahh Ive got itWe can sell tickets. We can get
the people to pay to attend. Wow! Imagine that. Pay to go get your teaching, miracle, anointing, whateverYeh,
thats right, we can package it, promote it, and sell it! After all thats how XYZ man of God does it. We will sell
tickets to the greatest demonstration of Gods power on earth! Wow! Imagine thatWe will be leaders
(ringmasters) of the greatest show on earth! Wow! The people will love it! (Sadly, some of the barking dog,
roaring lion, slithering snake manifestations of the Toronto Airport Fellowship revival seem to resemble a
circus)
So they begin to visualize the possibilities of making their church, the base for Gods next magnificent move in
their region. Their imagination allows them to start envisioning themselves speaking on stage in front of a
huge crowd, of adoring sycophantic people, doing all the glorious things of God their heroes of the faith have
done.
Soon they can see themselves doing the miraculous, healing the sick, casting down demonic principalities over
regions, being on TV, selling books on how they made a mega church based on the great new thing God is

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doing. Sometimes they even act it out, making huge sweeping gestures, looking in the mirror, wondering if they
are good enough to pull it off.
The hidden motive (perhaps even unconscious) is often self-promotion and a desire to be exalted before the
people. Sometimes it is a desire to take a "short-cut" to the glory of God, and a powerful ministry, forgetting the
genuine mystery of the faith, and the fellowship of His suffering, the bearing of the cross, and self-death that is
required for an authentic ministry. Genuine God breathed anointing does not come except by holy living and
dieing to self, which doesnt sell too well in America or anywhere for that matter.
Humiliating weakness, crucifixion and death to the flesh, always precedes God-breathed resurrection power.
That is the authentic Jesus way. Period. There is no other way.
Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all
comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any
trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ
abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. And whether we be afflicted, it is for your
consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also
suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. And our hope of you is
stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the
consolation. For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that
we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life: But we
had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth
the dead: Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet
deliver us; Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of
many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf. For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of
our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of
God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward. For we write
none other things unto you, than what ye read or acknowledge; and I trust ye shall acknowledge even to
the end; As also ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your rejoicing, even as ye also are ours in
the day of the Lord Jesus. (2Co 1:3-14 KJV)
And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.
Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for
Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. (2Co 12:9-10 KJV)
Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you. For
though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are
weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you. Examine yourselves,
whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is
in you, except ye be reprobates? But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates. Now I pray to
God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest,
though we be as reprobates. For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. For we are glad,
when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection. (2Co 13:3-9 KJV)

The American pastor is to be pitied, because the huckster-marketing paradigm appeals to one of the most
deeply held, highly valued, unconsciously perceived, bedrock cultural values in America. Pragmatism.
After all, whats not to like about people making money, doing things that look impressive and authentically
spiritual, practicing behaviors that create fame? Besides, the huckster-marketing paradigm is so prevalent in
American Christendom and the world itself, how can anyone resist? It is almost impossible.
From the looks of things, it appears that very few American church leaders entertain a serious look at what drives
their motivation to such an unquestioning heartfelt embrace of what one could call the huckster-marketing
paradigm. They seem oblivious to the effectiveness of the powerful, money generating, prestige enhancing,
marketing forces that both provoke and fuel their deepest desires.

Reflection Rejected
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Is there a genuine Holy Spirit, that really wants to glorify Jesus and not men of God? Why isnt the huckstermarketing paradigm issue ever really seriously addressed publicly?
Is there an anxiety that the people (i.e. Christian consumers) will wake up and realize they have been duped?
Is it a lack of genuine spirituality and self-awareness? Is it a fear of self-revelation?
Do Christian Leaders unconsciously know that if you talk about it, you are sure to evoke the ire and disdain of
the entire community of huckster-marketing paradigm promoters and practitioners?
Doesnt discussion of the issue mark one out for pariah status? After all dont those who discuss the issue (the
God ordained genuine prophetic) earn the distinctive status of persona non grata among the Christian
Leadership Community?
Isnt manifestation of any unsavory heart motivations, one of the issues that one does not discuss in polite
company?
Isnt that one of the areas that has been mutually agreed upon to be off-limits?
Its on the very rare occasion (maybe once or twice each decade), when someone broaches the hucksteristic
motive of the heart subject.
The precipitating incident is usually when an obvious, self-serving, hucksteristic violation, that is so egregious
that it is impossible to deny, surfaces. Perhaps some celebrated leader is exposed for falling into sin. Maybe a
curious investigative television reporter uncovers outright lies or fraudulent technology-empowered miracles.
Perhaps a prophetic word is so outrageous that it causes even the world to mock and ridicule the Christian
Community as complete idiots.
Then, brief discussion in hushed tones may occur among leadership in the Christian Community. None dares
to identify with the God-exposed example of hypocrisy for fear of rejection from the other Christian Leaders.
When some conscience awakened leader spews his or her concerns that the group he is part of has
comparable characteristics or the propensity for similar error, they are met with a pious looking acknowledgement
that is demonstrated by contorted facial features of doleful looks and practiced pretended humbleness.
However, peel back the veneer and one seems to always sense a smug callousness of heart. (think about how a
callus develops) Because if one of the truly conscience stricken really presses the issue, he is shunned and out
emerges, a forget about it weve got things to do, kingdoms to conquer, etcand all manner of rationalization
on why the Christian Leadership Team is not taking Gods object lesson (the exposed huckster) to heart.
On the extremely rare occasion when one continues to raise the issue of hucksterism in our midst the so called
Christian Leaders piously assert in a tone of false humility, Who are we to judge? or We wouldnt want to
judge any one would we? Remember, judge not, that you be not judged.
Dejected, the conscience stricken, genuinely prophetically awakened Leader, slinks off thinking there must be
something wrong with me, because I am the only one that seems to see the error of our movement. As he
walks away, it now seems that everywhere he looks he sees error, deception, manipulation, and trickery.
Everywhere he looks he sees the damaging consequences of the new thing. Disillusioned, formerly happy,
sincere believers - sickened after consuming a diet of deception cross his path. It almost seems like God brings
people to him
He is torn, what should he do? Leave the movement? Pray harder? Keep trying to persuade the leadership
Team? Sound the alarm in Zion? He prays and weighs all his options. Since hes pretty deeply embedded
in the Christian Leadership Club he knows the rules.
Arent the Christian Leaders only too aware that accusations, that others are driven by base, self-serving
motivations are a sure-fire path to ministry destroying, back-stabbing, counter accusations?
Isnt there a gentlemans agreement, and unspoken rule that states that since discussion of such
corrupt heart motivations will implicitly expose all of us, let none of us ever think about, study, discuss,
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preach, teach, or ponder anything that will negatively impact the system from which we all derive our
living and status.
Although very few will ever admit it, all Christian Leaders know even if unconsciously that the rules exist.
And God forbid that anyone should discuss it. For these types of Christian Leaders strive to make sure that
appearance are kept up. Paul faced the same issues in his day, (see 2 Corinthians 4:1-5; 5:12; 2 Corinthians
10)
Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; 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. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world
hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the
image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and
ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. (2 Corinthians 4:1-5 KJV)
For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may
have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart. (2Co 5:12 KJV)

Total Buy-In

Finally the leaders and pastors bring in some guest speakers to begin to prime the pump and get the people
excited about the next big move of God! The buzz is already going, now all they need is a little confidence
building exhortation from the Mega-Huckster that has written the book on the subject
The leaders know that if the people see them with the man of God who has that incredible anointing to
_________ (fill in the blank its the same pattern over & over) they will have it made. Or, at least it will be easier
to sell the wind of doctrine that they want to pitch.
After all an endorsement from the World Renowned Man of God that the people have been reading about and
seeing on TV, is just about as good as gold. If the man of God (read Huckster) says the leaders and pastors
are great and their church is cutting edge, paving the way for the glory of God, and they the congregation are
in on it the road ahead is sure to be laden with good things, maybe even a national or international ministry!
Certainly praise and accolades from the desperate local Christians, who have been burnt by the last great thing
God was doing.
So, in come the guest speakers along with their merch tables and grand ideologies certain to fix all that ails ya.
If the Mega-Huckster is really big, some of his or her sycophantic, fawning, fans, followers, disciples, (some
would call them groupies, toadies2, or shills) may travel across the country to see him or her at what has
been marketed as the the most historic, holy mega-event of all time.
Finally, the "great man of God" who is promoted as an "humble servant" comes to "minister" to the congregation
and have an "impartation service at the alter, complete with laying on of hands, prophetic words of knowledge,
miracles, anointings, and let's not forget the "merch tables" chock full of books, tapes, CD's, DVD's, and manuals
being sold to "help the people" and to "support the work of God".

[Toady - from toad.]

Word History: The earliest recorded sense (around 1690) of toady is "a little or young toad," but this has nothing to do with the modern
usage of the word. The modern sense has rather to do with the practice of certain quacks or charlatans who claimed that they could
draw out poisons. Toads were thought to be poisonous, so these charlatans would have an attendant eat or pretend to eat a toad and
then claim to extract the poison from the attendant. Since eating a toad is an unpleasant job, these attendants came to epitomize the
type of person who would do anything for a superior, and toadeater (first recorded 1629) became the name for a flattering, fawning
parasite. Toadeater and the verb derived from it, toadeat, influenced the sense of the noun and verb toad and the noun toady, so that
both nouns could mean "sycophant" and the verb toady could mean "to act like a toady to someone."
The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in
2003. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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Many of the local level leaders and pastors don't think or feel that they are slick enough showman to pull off
the charades many of their guest speakers perform, although they will often pathetically try. Sadly they usually
make fools of themselves. Thank God for that. However over time they do get better and shrewder in their
performances, and the people become duller and ever more gullible as they hear and see the same dribble
delivered week after week. Of course they rarely read their Bibles during the week to check if what they are
listening to and watching is in fact authentic.
These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of
mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. (Act 17:11 KJV)
Once things get rolling and the new thing is starting to take-off, the local level leaders and pastors come to
see some of the less savory elements of the marketing machine, methods, and message of the man of God
(huckster).
They see that the much vaunted anointing is nothing more than a person with personal charisma, soul power
energy to spare, and a huge ego and stage presence. However, they are reduced to saying amen, because
they have built such an idolatrous image in the minds of the people that they cant un-sell what they have
already billed as the greatest show on earth.
The teachings that the huckster claims God especially revealed to him to proclaim to the last generation, are in
fact found to be passionate attempts to pitch a particular private interpretation of the scripture. The pastors and
leaders know it is merely some modified, baked-over heresy that is being sold as fresh revelation from God for
the cutting edge end time move of God or some other such bologna. Internally they grimace, and hope that God
will forgive them for letting it pass by the flock as from Him. They know there is some truth in the teaching, and
they hope the people only see that and overlook the lies and heresies.
The prophetic words billed as some great, accurate, prophetic insight, are found to be Biblical exhortations
sprinkled with vague, misguided, prophetic (pathetic) generalizations. They often turn out to be flatteries that
infect people with mere arrogance producing pufferies. However the elders cant say anything, because that
would undermine the great prophets credibility. Never is anything tested when specific dates are put forward for
something to happen. Like in the coming year Z, Y, & Z are going to happen, and thousands will be ushered
into the kingdom. However when it doesnt happen, nobody ever questions why it didnt happen, or hold the
prophet (profit) accountable for his false prophecy.
You can name the program, ministry, anointing, what have you there is always a mixture, and rarely if ever is it
unadulterated purity.
When irrefutable errors emerge that are too glaring to overlook the people are told... its OK, Were getting
better at this, were growing in that, Have mercy on us, were trying, bla, bla, bla, dribble, dribble, dribble.
The problem is the thing was sold as being the very unadulterated Word of God, the pure anointing of God, a
direct Revelation of God, the coming move of God, etc
What in fact was it? Some huckster or movement being billed as something from God when if fact it wasnt.
Sometimes the pastors and leaders are alarmed and their conscience starts to send troubling messages to
them. They may pray about it, or repent for the little half truths, filler, or hype. But its too late now. The
people have really taken hold of the new thing. Besides the people seem to like it so muchand we have a
big conference coming up.
Resistance
The so called pastors and leaders are not able to rebuke and expose the lies and deception, because it
"blows" their whole "program" or "paradigm" that they have "bought into" and want to "promote" to the rest of the
"church". They tell themselves Honest critique undermines the faith of the people, so lets not do that.
After a particularly egregious seminar They may kind of try to "fix" the damage with a sermon to "bring some
balance" or whatever, but in fact the damage has already been done.
I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at
his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke,
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exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound
doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they
shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. (2Ti 4:1-4 KJV)
The reality is the damaging deceptions started months or years earlier in the so called pastors and leaders
hearts when they were seduced by the accolades and worshipful adoration afforded upon some so called
"apostle", "prophet", "Minister with a healing anointing", "intercessor" "worship leader", "prophetic psalmist" or
what have you. They seem to forget what Jesus said

Wolf in Sheeps Clothing

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but

inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their
fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so
every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth
forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a
corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth
good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their
fruits ye shall know them. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord,
Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the
will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day,
Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name
have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful
works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart
from me, ye that work iniquity. (Mat 7:15-23 KJV)

All these so called pastors and leaders wanted was the BIG results the hucksters promised, or the ability to
"read some ones mail" with "accurate prophetic words", get themselves a healing anointing via an "impartation" or
"activation", build a big mega church, be part of Gods latest and greatest whateverisnt that why they opened
their church to these Hucksters
Sadly, these so called pastors and leaders resemble Simon, and I don't mean Simon Peter...
And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered
them money, Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the
Holy Ghost. But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift
of God may be purchased with money. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not
right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the
thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in
the bond of iniquity. (Act 8:18-23 KJV)
Of course, in order to thwart opposition to their evil ways, the body of Christ is drilled with teaching about not
judging, they are taught to have unquestioning faith in people that claim to have a supernatural anointing, even
if what they teach or practice clearly contradicts the Bible. Of course the people are taught that they should
"submit" to God's appointed "Leaders", etc.... because, God forbid that we should actually "touch God's
anointed".
The question is never asked - Who said they were God's chosen anointed vessel anyway?
The logic used to assume that someone is Gods ordained leader and someone whos judgment is beyond
questioning just because they are in a position of authority is faulty. By that logic, whoever is in any position of
authority is there by Gods ordained plan and is not able to be reproved. They forget the apostle Pauls
observation of the divine order
Factions have to exist in order to make it clear who the genuine believers among you are. (1Corinthians
11:19 GW)
The Bible is full of examples where Gods ordained leader is reproved by the genuinely prophetic.
Many times a King or Leader had numerous false prophets and priests saying they were fine kings and leaders.
Then comes along one genuine prophet and he is accused of being false. Sadly, in Israels history and
throughout much of church history it has been proven that the majority is not always right. (1 Kings 18, 1 Kings
22)
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If one were to trace back how someone became a nationally recognized man of God, the trail generally leads to
some giant Christian book publisher impressing one of their other authors, often a fellow minister (read crony
or partner in corruption) to write an endorsement or preface for the new hucksters book saying the guy is a
nationally recognized man of God.
Its a known fact that the book publishers rely on these incestuous endorsements to sell books and lend an air of
credibility to their stable of authors. Each one endorsing each the others books, cross marketing one to another.
Sometimes, they have a partner in the new big thing network to open church doors and give their support to
them with some flattering endorsement. Of course the price of admission to the club, was to open their church
to the huckster so he could dupe the people and fleece the flock.
Of course, Paul said that the true men of God commend themselves to the conscience of the hearers of their
message, and dont need endorsements.
Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to
you, or letters of commendation from you? (2Co 3:1 KJV)

Because of the twisted logic that is used to justify the fraudulent practices of these hucksters, dissent is
squashed. Scripture is misappropriated and the destructive arguments employed go something like this "God
uses the weak and foolish things to confound the wise..." and " judge not least you be judged". So, anyone who
"dares' to say "the emperor has no clothes" is immediately silenced for his "lack of faith", or "judgmental spirit", or
"oh my God...touching God's anointed!"
Then, all the people who dare to raise questions are either rebuked, or are essentially ignored and driven off by
neglect and apathy from the "elders". Some are strong armed or shamed into "submission" to some false doctrine
the pastors and leaders happen to be selling during that cycle of corruption. Some are essentially
"blackmailed" into submission by the so called pastors and leaders telling the questioner that they will "never
have a position of leadership in this church with an attitude like that" or, "You're just not a team player", "you're
too judgmental", "you have a critical spirit". Many genuine watchmen have heard it. The pastors and
leaders reject the genuine prophetic and instead embrace flattery and showmanship!
"Wicked people are found among my people. They lie in ambush like bird catchers. They set traps and
catch people. Like cages filled with birds, their houses are filled with deceit. That is why they become
powerful and rich. They grow big and fat. Their evil deeds have no limits. They have no respect for the
rights of others. They have no respect for the rights of orphans. But they still prosper. They don't
defend the rights of the poor. I will punish them for these things," declares the LORD. "I will punish
this nation. "Something horrible and disgusting is happening in the land: Prophets prophesy lies.
Priests rule under the prophets' directions, and my people love this. But what will you do in the
end?" (Jer 5:26-31 GW)
Instead of fighting the "powers that be" (no pun intended see Eph 6:12) many people just vote with their feet and
leave the "fellowship". Of course the so-called pastors and leaders are secretly only too glad to see the
"troublemakers" go. As the so-called pastors and leaders talk among themselves they will rationalize that the
one who left was only " a hindrance the work of God" with their "unbelief" and "critical spirit".
And the word of the Lord came to me, saying, Son of man, be a prophet against the keepers of the flock
of Israel, and say to them, O keepers of the sheep! this is the word of the Lord: A curse is on the
keepers of the flock of Israel who take the food for themselves! is it not right for the keepers to give
the food to the sheep? You take the milk and are clothed with the wool, you put the fat beasts to death,
but you give the sheep no food. You have not made the diseased ones strong or made well that
which was ill; you have not put bands on the broken or got back that which had been sent away or
made search for the wandering ones; and the strong you have been ruling cruelly. And they were
wandering in every direction because there was no keeper: and they became food for all the beasts of the
field. And my sheep went out of the way, wandering through all the mountains and on every high hill: my
sheep went here and there over all the face of the earth; and no one was troubled about them or went
in search of them. (Eze 34:1-6 BBE)
To many sincere Christians the majority of the compromised charismatic circus is a big joke, a comical farce
- that tragically ends in disappointment for "the people" and the so-called pastors and leaders.
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Decline
As time progresses, the new big thing proves to be pretty disappointing. It doesnt matter which one, they are all
the same. The name changes, the emphasis changes, the promoters change, but the reality is they are all the
same...Hucksterism!
Of course rarely does anyone in the church voice his or her disappointments, which would be called unbelief,
lack of love, critical spirit, judgmentalism, legalism, cynicism etc
But secretly they think to themselves
The demons have not been defeated over the city. Revival has not come. The murder rate is up, not down.
Church attendance is down, not up what went wrong? Oh, we did pick up a few people from the dead church
down the road, but they seem a bit sad here too.
Remember that demon of lust that got cast out at the big deliverance service by the deliverance minister well
the brother is still masturbating in front of his porn filled computer. I always did think that deliverance thing was
pretty weird.
If a little peep of discouragement comes out from someone then another person reminds themOh, but what
about the big time Healing ministry of XYZ.
To which the discouraged saint replies Well I guess a few headaches were cured, a couple of backaches
relieved, but the person in the wheel chair is still there, and the blind guy still cant see. The healings didnt
come.and I dont think one person got saved, even though we spent all that money advertising to bring in the
unsaved. As a matter of fact, I dont think any unbelievers came to the big evangelistic meeting.
O well, I guess we didnt have enough faith, because the big time Healing minister told us he had those big time
miracles going on at the last place he ministered. (was he speaking evang-e l a s t I c a l l y about all those
miracles and deliverances? You know kind of s t r e a c h I n g the truth a little? No it couldnt be! God forbid
the thought! After all, Pastor Bob said he was a s w e l l guy.) It just must be something wrong with us.
Still thinking about the hype versus what actually resulted, the despondent saint says to himself
Remember that big inner healing conference? That one didnt work out too good either did it? Seems like people
just came to the conclusion there was nothing they could do with themselves. They were so messed up that it
was impossible for even Jesus to fix. Why, we all prayed, but if Im honest with myself, I really didnt change.
And all the people that said they received they all seem to be exactly the same as they always have been. I
really thought that one would work, with all the confession of sin and stuff. Oh well, I read stories that it worked
for some people you know, in the book they sold us.
Finally they comfort themselves and try to gain new hope by saying
Well thank God that there is a NEW MOVE OF GOD COMING I heard a prophecy thank God because Im
getting tired of all this stuff weve been doing lately. It just doesnt seem to work here. Must be something with
America or somethingbut I know this next one is going to work
And on and on it goes
It seems they are ever learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. But that doesn't
matter...because by the time that the "New Move of God" is no longer "new" and it has run it's course with its
attendant disappointments that inevitably result by "it" not really working, BEHOLD! a "new and improved" "fresh
new move of God" comes along, and the cycle continues.over and over and over again.
This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own
selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without
natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of
godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep
into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and
never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so
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do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. But they shall
proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as theirs also was. (2Ti 3:1-9 KJV)
If someone does confront the pastors and leaders after the facts come forth that there in fact have been no
real results, an attempt is put forward to cover their nakedness with a fig leaf by issuing some lame excuse, or
offering some kind of blame shifting argument. Lack of faith, America, sin (always out there somewhere,
but nothing specific, and nothing specific really confronted.) The absurdity of these disgusting arguments never
seems to dawn on them. If the last big great move a of God was supposed to happen, and it did not, why not,
and what should we do to fix it? Why should we go run to the next big great move of God when the last one
did not work?
The question must be asked - Who do the so-called pastors and leaders in charismatic Christendom think is
referred to by Paul in Eph 4:14-15?
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine,
by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the
truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: (Eph 4:14-15 King James)
Then we will no longer be little children, tossed and carried about by all kinds of teachings that change
like the wind. We will no longer be influenced by people who use cunning and clever strategies to
lead us astray. (Eph 4:14 Gods Word)
in order that we may be no longer babes, tossed and carried about by every wind of that teaching which
is in the sleight of men, in unprincipled cunning with a view to systematized error; (Eph 4:14 Darby)

Or how about
I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at
his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke,
exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound
doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou
in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. (2Ti 4:1-5
KJV)
But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among
you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring
upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom
the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words
make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation
slumbereth not. (2Pe 2:1-3 KJV)
The honest opinion of many sincere Christians is that the so-called pastors and leaders in
charismatic Christendom cant see this because they are this! They truly are what Jesus warned us against
and Paul prophesied about.
The false prophets and false teachers (hucksters) have these characteristics...
These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great
swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage. (Jud 1:16 KJV)
But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among
you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring
upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the
way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words
make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation
slumbereth not. (2Pe 2:1-3 KJV)
But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government.
Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. Whereas angels, which
are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord. But these, as
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natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not;
and shall utterly perish in their own corruption; And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, as they
that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting themselves with
their own deceivings while they feast with you; Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease
from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed
children: Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son
of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; But was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass
speaking with man's voice forbad the madness of the prophet. These are wells without water, clouds
that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. For when they speak
great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much
wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error. While they promise them
liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same
is he brought in bondage. For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the
knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the
latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the
way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto
them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit
again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire. (2Pe 2:10-22 KJV)
Paul made a comparison contrast in his letters to help the Corinthians discern between the true and the
compromised....
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. (2Co 4:2 KJV)
For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may
have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart. (2Co 5:12 KJV)
Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed: But in all things approving ourselves
as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, In stripes, in
imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; By pureness, by knowledge, by
longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, By the word of truth, by the power of
God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, By honour and dishonour, by evil
report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and,
behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many
rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things. O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our
heart is enlarged. (2Co 6:3-11 KJV)
Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.
(2Co 7:2 KJV)
For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend
themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among
themselves, are not wise. (2Co 10:12 KJV)
Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear with me. For I am jealous over
you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste
virgin to Christ. But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your
minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he that cometh preacheth another
Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or
another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him. For I suppose I was not a whit
behind the very chiefest apostles. But though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have
been throughly made manifest among you in all things. Have I committed an offence in abasing
myself that ye might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely? I robbed
other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service. And when I was present with you, and wanted, I
was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia
supplied: and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep
myself. As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia.
Wherefore? because I love you not? God knoweth. But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off
occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as
we. For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of
Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no
great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end
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shall be according to their works. I say again, Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool
receive me, that I may boast myself a little. That which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were
foolishly, in this confidence of boasting. Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also. For ye
suffer fools gladly, seeing ye yourselves are wise. For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage,
if a man devour you, if a man take of you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face. I
speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. Howbeit whereinsoever any is bold, (I
speak foolishly,) I am bold also. (2Co 11:1-21 KJV)
Strange fire, which could be a picture of impure anointing, is never acceptable before God.
And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and
put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not.
And there went out fire from the LORD, and devoured them, and they died before the LORD. Then
Moses said unto Aaron, This is it that the LORD spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh
me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron held his peace. And Moses called Mishael and
Elzaphan, the sons of Uzziel the uncle of Aaron, and said unto them, Come near, carry your brethren
from before the sanctuary out of the camp. So they went near, and carried them in their coats out of the
camp; as Moses had said. And Moses said unto Aaron, and unto Eleazar and unto Ithamar, his sons,
Uncover not your heads, neither rend your clothes; lest ye die, and lest wrath come upon all the people:
but let your brethren, the whole house of Israel, bewail the burning which the LORD hath kindled. And ye
shall not go out from the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, lest ye die: for the anointing oil of the
LORD is upon you. And they did according to the word of Moses. And the LORD spake unto Aaron,
saying, Do not drink wine nor strong drink, thou, nor thy sons with thee, when ye go into the tabernacle of
the congregation, lest ye die: it shall be a statute for ever throughout your generations: And that ye may
put difference between holy and unholy, and between unclean and clean; And that ye may teach
the children of Israel all the statutes which the LORD hath spoken unto them by the hand of
Moses. (Lev 10:1-11 KJV)
God has always wanted His ministers to be able to teach people distinctions between clean and unclean, holy
and un-holy. When false fire is offered the inevitable consequence is the fire of God smiting those who offer the
strange fire, and should the ministers not repent, the whole of the people can be damaged and judged.
The Apostle Paul, who was a genuine man of God, said that he was a savor of death to some but life to others.
Does that statement at least partly imply that the huckster always says what is pleasing to people and thus never
has any opposition?
Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour
of his knowledge by us in every place. For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are
saved, and in them that perish: To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the
savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things? For we are not as many, which corrupt
the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ. (2Co
2:14-17 KJV)
The word corrupt in verse 17 is a verb defined by Thayer as
1) to be a retailer, to peddle
2) to make money by selling anything
2a) to get sordid gain by dealing in anything, to do a thing for base gain
2b) to trade in the word of God
2b1) to try to get base gain by teaching divine truth
2c) to corrupt, to adulterate
2c1) peddlers were in the habit of adulterating their commodities for the sake of gain
A Related Word by Thayers/Strongs Number: from kapelos (a huckster)
Jesus said

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Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.
(Luke 6:26 KJV)
Again, Paul contrasts the false with the real when he appeals to the Corinthians that have been deluded by the hucksters
of his day
Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; 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.
But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the
minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God,
should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your
servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in
our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have
this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are
troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not
forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord
Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are alway
delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our
mortal flesh. So then death worketh in us, but life in you. (2Co 4:1-12 KJV)
Summary
Much of what is described in this little article is how much of modern American charismatic Christianity is
practiced today. As a matter of fact, it has become so entrenched and has become so normative that people
cant even see the inherent corruption.
Anyone who criticizes modern American Christianity, or questions what is going on is called critical,
judgmental, or worse. The history of Israel and the church seems to demonstrate that Gods appointed leaders
and large segments of His people, usually misinterpret the genuinely prophetic, and even reject it. Then years
latter, many come to see how utter wrong they were.
Because those in leadership take pleasure in surrounding themselves with yes men, that dont rock the boat,
they rarely even hear honest critique or reasoned argument and thus dont know how to respond when they are
confronted. This is the very reason that God raises up the genuine prophetic in times of corrupt or out of balance
leadership and inauthentic practice.
Charismatic Pastoral Leadership rarely allows themselves to be examined, because that would mean exposing
themselves to criticism.
One must ask where is the oversight of the overseers.
When arguments are offered to those in authority - they find they are incapable of judging, because it would
require them to judge themselves. That is why the executive branch of the US government always appoints a
special prosecutor when a scandal is intimated, because they are incapable of investigating and passing fair
judgment on themselves.
Another reason why the genuine prophetic is squelched in todays modern charismatic movement is because
the common understanding is that the pastors and leaders are appointed by God, therefore, who can critique
them? If God appoints them, God should speak to them. If they say God has not spoken to them, then God must
approve of what they approve of. The entire argument is simple minded and flawed.
The fact is most of the pastors and leaders are essentially appointed by someone who has seen them as
faithful yes men, who will carry on the noble traditions of this church. Many of the pastors and leaders are
the founders or family heirs of an ecclesiastical dynasty passed onto them by their parents.
To whom do the pastors and leaders give an account? God? The people? Their critics?
What if they cant hear God? What if they have driven off all dissent and no one questions them any more? What
if the critics are never even given a hearing because they are told that they have a judgmental or critical spirit?
Many would contend, that such leaders are ripe for severe rebuke, exposure of injustice and corrupt practice, and
divine judgment.
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Many believe the church of America is in for a very rude awakening. If God has not completely turned what is
called the church over to its own corrupt practices, it will be increasingly exposed for what in fact it corruptly
practices self- serving hucksterism and hypocrisy.
Take note, just because something calls itself the church does not automatically mean that it is in fact the
Genuine Church. The Catholic Church thinks it is the genuine apostolic church presided over by the successor of
Peter. They have almost 2000 years of history to prove it. Does that make it the genuine church? I doubt anyone
that reads this would think so.
Why is it that charismatic Christendom thinks the Catholic Church is so corrupt, but they are not? Is it because
they, being outside of the Catholic Church are able to see it more clearly than those within that cant see
themselves properly?
Is charismatic Christendom beyond criticism? Do they think everything they do is correct, and is approved by
God? Does charismatic Christendom think they are able to correctly judge themselves but the Catholics are not?
How can charismatic Christendom even see outside of themselves to correctly judge themselves? Are they able
to be judges of themselves?
If charismatic Christendom thinks that, they are in deep trouble.
God is not pleased with His name being confused with what is obvious hucksterism and deception. Because the
people are practicing the faith with mixture of motive and method they have lost their sight and become blind.
The world rightly mocks and disdains the thing called the church because it is not the genuine Church of Jesus
Christ, the pillar and ground of the Truth. It may have genuine people in it, but large parts of it are powerless and
corrupt, and correctly judged to be so by the world.

2007 John Dantico

jdantico@jesuslight.org

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