After being a cricket chirping in the reeds for years, this is the 1,000th chirp from the Muddy Streams swampland, and quite possibly the last. We could write and read and talk about the muddy streams of spiritual convergence all day, but there are more important things to do. Can you hear the winds of change blowing in the reeds? A storm is coming, it’s time to get ready.
Get Right With God . . .
The Only Hope in The Coming Storm!
Posted in Uncategorized | 9 Comments »
There will always be charlatans and wolves and false teachers in this world, trying to get you to cross over the bridge of compromise and join them. From the beginning of time, there has been a LIE and a TRUTH available for ALL to choose. But time is running out, and there is only One way, One truth, One choice…. to save you from an eternal darkness you cannot see or fathom. What you choose in this lifetime will determine your eternal destination. It is the most important decision you will ever make. Will you be saved?
Question: “How can I be saved?”
Answer: This simple, yet profound, question is the most important question that can be asked. “How can I be saved?” deals with where we will spend eternity after our lives in this world are over. There is no more important issue than our eternal destiny. Thankfully, the Bible is abundantly clear on how a person can be saved. The Philippian jailer asked Paul and Silas, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” (Acts 16:30). Paul and Silas responded, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31).
How can I be saved? Why do I need to be saved?
We are all infected with sin (Romans 3:23). We are born with sin (Psalm 51:5), and we all personally choose to sin (Ecclesiastes 7:20; 1 John 1:8). Sin is what makes us unsaved. Sin is what separates us from God. Sin is what has us on the path to eternal destruction.How can I be saved? Saved from what?
Because of our sin, we all deserve death (Romans 6:23). While the physical consequence of sin is physical death, that is not the only kind of death that results from sin. All sin is ultimately committed against an eternal and infinite God (Psalm 51:4). Because of that, the just penalty for our sin is also eternal and infinite. What we need to be saved from is eternal destruction (Matthew 25:46; Revelation 20:15).
Read more: http://www.gotquestions.org/how-can-I-be-saved.html#ixzz3XL6hmmLP
Posted in biblical counsel, Christianity, Jesus Christ, scripture, the Bible | Leave a Comment »
GOOD BYE OZ, HELLO YELLOW BRICK ROAD
How about this?
‘A fake and a charlatan’: Doctors call for Dr. Oz to be dismissed from Columbia surgery faculty over alleged quack science
BY LARRY MCSHANE NEW YORK DAILY NEWSDr. Oz doesn’t walk or talk like a duck — but 10 prominent critics say he’s still a quack.
The group of nationally known doctors, in a lacerating letter to his boss, called for the TV doctor’s dismissal from the prestigious post of vice chairman of Columbia University’s department of surgery.
“He’s a quack and a fake and a charlatan,” said Dr. Henry Miller of Stanford, the first person to sign the poison-pen letter.
More here:
And this. . .
Physicians want Dr. Mehmet Oz gone from Columbia medical faculty, say he lacks integrity
By Verena Dobnik, The Associated Press | The Canadian PressNEW YORK, N.Y. – Columbia University has not removed TV celebrity doctor Mehmet Oz from his faculty position as a group of top doctors has demanded, citing his “egregious lack of integrity” for promoting what they call “quack treatments.”
“Dr. Oz has repeatedly shown disdain for science and for evidence-based medicine,” said a letter the 10 physicians sent to a Columbia dean earlier this week. They say he’s pushing “miracle” weight-loss supplements with no scientific proof that they work. . .
According to the second article, Oz has been putting money first. Doctors say that Oz “has manifested an egregious lack of integrity by promoting quack treatments and cures in the interest of personal financial gain.”
Who can forget Oz’s business partnership with Rick Warren and his purpose driven church and the slick marketing of The Daniel Plan? Was there a quack at Saddleback? Was this muddy mixture of religion and health being used by both for fame and financial gain? Many would say these two men have much in common. Another question might be, who was using whom?
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Related:
BE SKEPTICAL OF DR. OZ’S REMEDIES AND RICK WARREN’S “PLANS”
http://standupforthetruth.com/2015/01/skeptical-dr-ozs-remedies-rick-warrens-plans/
********************
******AND IF THINGS CAN GET ANY WORSE, THEY WILL….
NEW!!!!!! MAY 8, 2015
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“Such is the state of the professing Christian Church in 2015, weak, powerless, and effeminate. Elton John, the man who has worn more wigs and dresses than Marilyn Monroe, we expect this from. But Rick Warren claims to be a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Here was his perfect opportunity to lovingly and graciously tell not only Elton John, but all of Congress that without being born again they will die and go to a Devil’s Hell. But instead, he holds hands with a gay man, and jokes about kissing him. It was a joke, right?”
–APOSTATE PASTOR RICK WARREN AND ELTON JOHN HOLD HANDS IN CONGRESS, JOKE ABOUT KISSING EACH OTHER
http://www.nowtheendbegins.com/blog/?p=33010
ALSO SEE:
RICK WARREN JOKES ABOUT KISSING ELTON JOHN
Pop preacher, ‘gay’ pop star urge Congress not to cut AIDS funding
Read more at http://www.wnd.com/2015/05/rick-warren-jokes-about-kissing-elton-john/
Feel the Love Tonight? Rick Warren, Elton John Hold Hands, Joke About Kissing Before AIDS Panel
http://christiannews.net/2015/05/10/feel-the-love-tonight-rick-warren-elton-john-hold-hands-joke-about-kissing-before-aids-panel/#!
Posted in compromise of the church, Purpose Driven, Rick Warren, Saddleback Church, the world listens | 2 Comments »
What is Christian spirituality?
Answer: When we are born again, we receive the Holy Spirit who seals us for the day of redemption (Ephesians 1:13; 4:30). Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would lead us “into all truth” (John 16:13). Part of that truth is taking the things of God and applying them to our lives. When that application is made, the believer then makes a choice to allow the Holy Spirit to control him/her. True Christian spirituality is based upon the extent to which a born-again believer allows the Holy Spirit to lead and control his or her life.
Read more: http://www.gotquestions.org/spirituality-Christian.html#ixzz3XL5jHNGu
Posted in Christianity | 2 Comments »
Question: “What is the difference between religion and spirituality?”
Answer: Before we explore the difference between religion and spirituality, we must first define the two terms. Religion can be defined as “belief in God or gods to be worshipped, usually expressed in conduct and ritual” or “any specific system of belief, worship, etc., often involving a code of ethics.” Spirituality can be defined as “the quality or fact of being spiritual, non-physical” or “predominantly spiritual character as shown in thought, life, etc.; spiritual tendency or tone.” To put it briefly, religion is a set of beliefs and rituals that claim to get a person in a right relationship with God, and spirituality is a focus on spiritual things and the spiritual world instead of physical/earthly things.
The most common misconception about religion is that Christianity is just another religion like Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, etc. Sadly, many who claim to be adherents of Christianity do practice Christianity as if it were a religion . . .
Read more: http://www.gotquestions.org/religion-spirituality.html#ixzz3XL4fjGBC
Posted in religion | Leave a Comment »
What does the spiritual bridge from east to west have to do with anti-Israel resolutions and same sex resolutions in the Mennonite Church USA denomination?
Ruth Haley Barton, founder of The Transforming Centre[1], was trained at the Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation which teaches: “This mystical stream [contemplative prayer] is the Western bridge to Far Eastern spirituality … It is no accident that the most active frontier between Christian and Eastern religions today is between contemplative Christian monks and their Eastern equivalents.” —Tilden Edwards, Shalem Founder[2]
Barton, who could not find peace or direction in her Baptist roots or through reading the Bible and praying, found fulfillment through spiritual direction. Now she incorporates a blend of Eastern and Roman Catholic contemplative spirituality and monastic practices in her retreats and books on practicing the presence of God in the silence and sacred rhythms of prayer. Lately she has been very instrumental in leading entire Protestant and Anabaptist church congregations and their leaders into these same practices through spiritual direction and discernment seminars. . .
More here:
Mennonites Walk Barton’s Bridge (to Rome and beyond)
Posted in Christianity, compromise of the church, conferences, contemplative spirituality, eastern religion, ecumenism, Israel, mysticism, new age, religion, retreats, roads to Rome, Roman Catholicism, spiritual disciplines, spiritual formation | Leave a Comment »
Have the muddy streams of spiritual convergence with Christianity (mixed with the new tolerance and political correctness) been the recipe for perfect peace . . . or the final perfect storm? Watch and read and pray.
Christian Persecution worldwide ISLAM The Raging Storm Breaking News March 2015:
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Judge Jeanine: Barack Obama defends Islam by shaming Christianity:
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Read:
Rev. Graham: ‘Storm of Islam’ is Coming; ‘Persecution’ in USA Because Obama is ‘Very Sympathetic to Islam’
http://cnsnews.com/blog/michael-w-chapman/rev-graham-storm-islam-coming-persecution-usa-because-obama-very-sympathetic
Rewriting History by Jill Martin Rische HERE (www.olivetreeviews.org)
Jill Martin Rische blogs here:
http://www.waltermartin.com/blog.html
Dear Churches in America: Prepare to Be Treated Like 1st Century Christians in Rome
http://www.christianpost.com/news/dear-churches-in-america-prepare-to-be-treated-like-1st-century-christians-in-rome-138025/
WRITER’S BLOC SLOGGING THROUGH EVANGELICAL BLOGGING
Exclusive: Jim Fletcher discusses agenda to marginalize whistleblowers
http://www.wnd.com/2015/05/slogging-through-evangelical-blogging/
CHRISTIANITY’S DECLINE IN AMERICA COULD LEAD TO COLLAPSE LIKE ROMAN EMPIRE
http://www.breitbart.com/video/2015/05/13/oreilly-christianitys-decline-in-america-could-lead-to-collapse-like-roman-empire/
‘Adios, America’
http://www.frontpagemag.com/2015/dgreenfield/adios-america/
‘All Churches in America Have Muslim Spies in Them’ Who Are ‘Cataloging’ Every Jew and Christian in Preparation for Jihad, Warns Author Avi Lipkin
http://www.christianpost.com/news/all-churches-in-america-have-muslim-spies-in-them-who-are-cataloging-every-jew-and-christian-in-preparation-for-jihad-warns-author-avi-lipkin-140432/
WILL AMERICA REPENT OR WILL AMERICA BE DESTROYED?
http://standupforthetruth.com/2015/06/will-america-repent-or-will-america-be-destroyed/
NIGHT IS FALLING
The agenda to marginalize Christians
Olive Tree Ministries
http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com
PRAY ! ! ! ! ! ! !
Posted in Christianity, persecution, politics, religion | Leave a Comment »
It’s the end of an era that began a great compromise.
“I apologize to Islam for the Christian Crusades of 1065, let us begin a new crusade of comrade and friendship, we are in the same camp. . . . I have never met a man of such spirituality and wisdom as that of your father. He is a spiritual giant”
–Robert Schuller, TV Minister to the son of the openly pro-HAMAS/Hezbollah Grand Mufti of Syria, during his televised “Hour of Power” TV preaching[1]“I was touched with him, spiritually moved by him, and I came back with a profound affection and love for him. I think it was the spirit of Jesus in him and the spirit of Jesus in me, that’s where we were able to make a connection.”
-Robert Schuller, speaking about the former Grand Mufti of Syria[2]
Whether it was the spirit of Jesus or the spirit of another[3] that empowered the infamous hour of error era, in today’s news. . .
Robert Schuller, Crystal Cathedral megachurch founder, dies
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2015/04/02/robert-schuller-crystal-cathedral-megachurch-founder-dies/
__________
1] Buh-Bye, Dhimmi Pastor Robert Schuller
http://www.debbieschlussel.com/24511/buh-bye-dhimmi-pastor-robert-schuller/
2] Islam: Seekers of Knowledge 2 of 9
A look at the legacy of the former Grand Mufti of Syria, Sheikh Ahmed Kuftaro, to establish a dialogue between Islam and the West
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnlZvN6n_mk
3] The Spirit of George?
Peale, Schuller, Warren and New Age Leader Bernie Siegel
http://www.submergingchurch.com/2012/06/22/peale-schuller-warren-and-new-age-leader-bernie-siegel/
Posted in another gospel, compromise of the church, interfaith, new age, Rick Warren, the world listens | Leave a Comment »
It has come to light that Mark Burnett and Roma Downey asked David Jeremiah to partner with them in telling the story of the early church in the Book of Acts. They recently appeared at Shadow Mountain Community Church. Read about it here:
David Jeremiah Brings Roma Downey and Mark Burnett to Shadow Mountain Community Church
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=17111
This appears to be a convergence of Christianity with New Age and occultic spirituality. Roma Downey has been on television with psychic Jonathan Edwards talking to her deceased mother, partnered with him in a book he wrote, and listens to books on tape by new ager Eckart Tolle.
See:
“Son of God” or Another Jesus?
https://muddystreams.wordpress.com/2014/02/26/son-of-god-or-another-jesus/
Read about Jonathan Edwards here:
Can you hear the dead speaking?
http://www.letusreason.org/NAM28.htm
Related:
Today’s ‘Biblical’ Movies Dishonor the God of the Bible
https://muddystreams.wordpress.com/2014/03/21/todays-biblical-movies-dishonor-the-god-of-the-bible/
UPDATED:
Letter to the Editor: “Awakening America Alliance” Brings SBC President Ronnie Floyd Together with New Age Roma Downey
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=17287
Posted in Christianity, compromise of the church, new age | 1 Comment »
Unity not uniformity, diversity not division
by Jonathan BirdChristians around the world observe the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity each January. This year the Week fell on the 18th to the 25th, and I joined more than 100 other people, representing about a dozen congregations, at the Unity not Uniformity, Diversity not Division conference held on the 16th and 17th, organized by three Protestant congregations in Richmond.
Jonathan Coutts of Richmond Alliance Church (Christian & Missionary Alliance), Micah Smith of Emmanuel Christian Community (independent, with Brethren and charismatic renewal roots) and Albert Chu of The Tapestry (Christian Reformed) co-sponsored the conference.
The keynote speaker was Gordon Smith, President of Ambrose University (Alliance and Nazarene) in Calgary.
The conference centred on three presentations by Smith who outlined an Evangelical Protestant case for an ecumenism that includes Catholics and other mainline traditions. He began with an appeal to Scripture, explaining that the New Testament everywhere teaches there is only one Church and that this truth is foregrounded the most in Ephesians. . .
More here:
http://lightmagazine.ca/2015/02/two-conferences-focusing-on-christian-unity/
Keynote speaker Gordon T. Smith (previously Vice President and Dean of Regent College), is the new president of Ambrose University College Seminary. The college is a merger of the Christian & Missionary Alliance (Canada) with The Church of the Nazarene (Canada). Smith has written several books. The Voice of Jesus, is built on Roman Catholic spiritual traditions of John of the Cross, Teresa of Avila, and Ignatius of Loyola. Alone With The Lord is a self guided prayer plan adapted from The Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits.
Read more about the link between Smith and the Jesuits, here: Ambrose University College hires Jesuit-educated contemplative spirituality proponent as its new president.
It appears that more than one evangelical denomination is being slowly persuaded by the Jesuit agenda to come together in an ecumenical plan and cross the bridge to Rome.
Related:
The Jesuit Agenda and the Evangelical/Protestant Church
http://www.understandthetimes.org/commentary/c97.shtml
C&MA and Ambrose: Welcoming Spiritually Muddy Theology
https://muddystreams.wordpress.com/2014/02/09/ambrose-welcoming-spiritually-muddy-theology/
Catholics and Evangelicals together at Ambrose
https://muddystreams.wordpress.com/2014/03/05/catholics-and-evangelicals-together-at-ambrose/
Are Ambrose Lecturers Leading Students into Muddy Waters?
https://muddystreams.wordpress.com/2013/02/06/are-ambrose-lecturers-leading-students-into-muddy-waters/
Christian & Missionary Alliance Students Taught to Listen to God – Contemplative Style
https://muddystreams.wordpress.com/2013/04/24/christian-missionary-alliance-students-taught-to-listen-to-god-contemplative-style/
Posted in Christianity, CMA, compromise of the church, ecumenism, religion, roads to Rome, Roman Catholicism | 1 Comment »
“…what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?” 2 Cor. 6:14
“We do believe… that the discerning reader can benefit greatly from these writings. The following are some of the books that the Western Canadian District of the Christian and Missionary Alliance in Canada believes to be beneficial.”
Source: http://www.transformcma.ca/resources-2/
The New Mystics by John Crowder is one such book that the WCD of the C&MA believes to be beneficial to the discerning reader. The following videos show what it is like to partake of communion with this author and New Mystic, John Crowder:
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Note: While Crowder sounds incredibly more intelligent in his book than he appears to be on his videos, The New Mystics is filled with contemplative mysticism and lifts up many false prophets and teachers. On the cover of this book it says:
Discover the power of Mahesh Chvada – William Seymour – Aimee Semple McPherson – George Whitefield – Oral Roberts – Brother Lawrence – Madame Jeanne Guyon – Charles Finney – Todd Bentley – Smith Wigglesworth – Maria Woodworth-Etter – St. John of the Cross – Jonathan Edwards – and many more
These ‘many more’ include Sadhu Sundar Singh (one of Crowders “utmost favorite mystics,” page 31), Lonnie Firsbee, Heidi Baker, St. Teresa of Avila, George Fox, and Madame Jeanne Guyon.
Posted in books, compromise of the church, mysticism | Leave a Comment »
Recently, more compromise in the C&MA has become evident as seen in Letter to the Editor: Christian & Missionary Alliance (Canada) Promoting Interspiritual, Panentheist Monk, Basil Pennington at Lighthouse Trails.
To add to the already muddy mix, the Western Canadian District of the Christian and Missionary Alliance in Canada[1] are embracing the season of Lent this year and are doing 40 days of Lent posts[2]. Also, as Lighthouse Trails reports, on their ‘Deeper Life Resources’ page[3] is a disclaimer:
The following list of resources contain a variety of perspectives that cannot be fully endorsed by the WCD in every manner. We do believe, however, that the discerning reader can benefit greatly from these writings. The following are some of the books that the Western Canadian District of the Christian and Missionary Alliance in Canada believes to be beneficial.
While the promotion of the Basil Pennington book is is disappointing, it is not even the most shocking recommendation of all. Another resource they believe to be beneficial is a book called Can You Hear Me? Tuning in to the God Who Speaks by Brad Jersak. This is a book about the practice of listening prayer. Jersak, who believes we can visualize ourselves into the throne room of heaven, is a universalist who does not believe in hell. He has recently become an ordained reader in the Orthodox church, and says he was “’chrismated’ at the end of June (2013) and ordained as a ‘reader’ for the All Saints Monastery…in October.” This was listed in the records of the ARCHDIOCESE OF CANADA, ORTHODOX CHURCH IN AMERICA: “Altar server Irenaeus (Bradley) Jersak was tonsured[4] to be a Reader at the Monastery of All Saints of North America in Dewdney, BC.”
Very recently Jersak interviewed Derek Flood who wrote a book called Disarming Scripture[5]. Flood, who blogs at The Rebel God[6], is among others like Brian McLaren who have been wrestling with questions of faith and doubt, violence in the Bible, and the substitutionary atonement of Christ. McLaren has written the forewords in both of his books. In Disarming Scripture, endorsed by Steve Chalke (also a denier of ‘Substitutionary Atonement’) and Jim Wallis, Brian D. Mclaren says “You need Derek Flood.”
If Brad Jersak, Derek Flood and all these men are like minded, why is he listed as an author of a beneficial book by the Western District of the C&MA? Other books by various contemplatives and mystics which are considered beneficial are equally concerning.
Rivers from Eden by Eden Jersak (Brad Jersak’s wife) is a forty-day spiritual exercise in Listening Prayer a lifestyle. Essential Guide to Healing by Bill Johnson and Randy Clark is described by C&MA as “a rich theological and historical foundation for healing in the church today.” However, Bill Johnson can hardly be called theologically sound[7]. The New Mystics by John Crowder is described as an examination of “Christian mystics throughout the ages who focused on the presence and power of God.” This may be the most shocking promotion of all. John Crowder of “Slosh Fest” reputation is often “drunk in the spirit” making animal noises and saying outrageous blasphemous things about Jesus[8].
The other beneficial books listed are mostly the typical contemplative material, such as The Way of the Heart by Henri Nouwen and Dark Night of the Soul by John of the Cross. In Constant Prayer by Robert Benson is a book about the offices, or fixed hours of prayer (the Rule of St. Benedict). The foreword is by Phyllis Tickle, who is arm in arm with the usual emerging church leaders and teachers of the new ancient spirituality. Let Go by Fenelon is touted as a classic by one of the church fathers, but Fenelon was the most famous disciple of French mystic and contemplative Madam Jean Guyon. Spiritual Exercises by St. Ignatius Loyola is another telling recommendation. These contemplative writings and exercises were written by the founder of the Jesuits[9].
In all, it appears that discernment in the Western Canadian District of the Christian and Missionary Alliance has died.
O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?Galatians 3:1
[For those who are genuinely concerned about this denomination and would like to know what to contend and pray for, please read about the muddy mixture of spirituality due to lack of discernment by entering: ‘Christian & Missionary Alliance’ into the search box of this blog.]
____________
Endnotes:
[1] http://www.transformcma.ca/
[2] http://40days-faithandhope.com/category/lent-posts-2015/
[3] http://www.transformcma.ca/resources-2/
[4] Tonsure is the practice of cutting or shaving some or all of the hair on the scalp, as a sign of religious devotion or humility. The term originates from the Latin word tonsūra (to clip, or cut) and referred to a specific practice in medieval Catholicism, abandoned by papal order in 1972. Current usage more generally refers to cutting or shaving for monks, devotees, or mystics of any religion as a symbol of their renunciation of worldly fashion and esteem
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonsure
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYbva9J8L2g
[6] http://www.therebelgod.com/
[7] BETHEL CHURCH’S “APOSTLE” BILL JOHNSON: A COMEDY OF ERRORS, PART 1
http://standupforthetruth.com/2014/10/bethel-churchs-apostle-bill-johnson-comedy-errors-part-1/
[8] MYSTIC JOHN CROWDER Exposed – Part 1 of 2:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNGPA6Idopg
Part 2:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKj-pFo11ys
This is Not That: An Analysis of John Crowder’s
“The New Mystics”
http://www.apostasyalert.org/REFLECTIONS/crowder.htm
[9] http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=6844
UPDATE 2015:
Brian McLaren has just endorsed Brad Jersak’s latest book called A More Christlike God: A More Beautiful Gospel, published by Plain Truth Ministries (www.ptm.org), where Jersak is a senior editor of their CWR blog (Christianity Without Religion). The recommended reading on the Plain Truth Ministries website speaks volumes (www.ptm.org/quad/bookList.htm). Jersak’s book is reviewed and endorsed by Derek Flood, Richard Rohr, William Paul Young, Brian McLaren, Eugene Peterson.
NOTE: Read more about McLaren’s involvment with Derek Flood here:
Healing the Gospel or Changing it?https://mennolite.wordpress.com/2013/05/13/healing-the-gospel-or-changing-it/
Posted in another gospel, books, CMA, compromise of the church, contemplative spirituality, ecumenism, emerging church, mysticism, roads to Rome, Roman Catholicism, spiritual disciplines, spiritual formation, universalism | 2 Comments »
What does this muddy mixture have in common?
A minister in the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church, an archdeacon of an Anglican Cathedral, a reverend of a Presbyterian Church, contemplative prayer, Buddhism, mindfulness meditation, centering prayer, and brain-expanding practices?
Read all about it, here (the article may be a year old but still relevant):
Prayer research opens fresh frontiers of spiritual practice
http://blogs.vancouversun.com/2013/12/24/prayer-research-opens-fresh-frontiers-of-spiritual-practice/
Posted in Buddhism, Christianity, CMA, compromise of the church, contemplative spirituality, eastern religion, mysticism, spiritual disciplines, spiritual formation | Leave a Comment »
The former member of a very popular Christian music group wastes no time opening her talk at her church with quotes from Richard Rohr (Franciscan priest of contemplative mystic theology who has taught the equality of Buddha with Christ and the indwelling of God in all things[1]) and Madeleine L’Engle (believed in universal salvation[2]) and Aldous Huxley (humanist whose spiritual interests were parapsychology mysticism and universalism [3]).
In the voice of an angel, with appealing words and songs with perfect pitch and harmony, she tells her story. Initially saved by an invitation to escape hell, the lovely singer with a voice of honey has changed her narrow misconceptions for untruths. It happened after disappointments, trials and sorrows coupled with doubts, that she started reading books. She read Brian McLaren (false teacher[4] who will be visiting her church), Richard Rohr, Thomas Merton (contemplative mystic/panentheist[5]) and Phyllis Tickle (has false views about the Bible, the gospel, nature of God and the Trinity[6] who will also be visiting her church). After accepting their words as truth, this lovely musician concluded that fear based approach to spirituality doesn’t work, and that the most devastating fear is the fear of God. Now, she says, everything belongs (Rohr), and love always wins (Bell). Freed from fear, she is now an open and inclusive pastor and mom who leads worship. The songs of comfort they will be singing from now are centered on how we belong and how we are beloved. The theme of the old hymn Amazing Grace is to be pitied, because we are not wretches. The core of who we are is not unworthiness. Those are old fearful concepts.
But fear not, this changed worship leader has written a lovely new song based on a quote by Julian of Norwich, a universalist and mystic[7] who engaged in meditation to identify with Christ’s suffering, praying and striving to experience fear and bodily pain to achieve union with Christ in many visions. The following Julian of Norwich quote is not quite as pleasant as the one which the new worship song is based on.
“In this sickness I wanted to have every kind of pain, bodily an spiritual, which I should have if I were dying, every fear and assault from devils and every other kind of pain except the departure of the spirit, for I hoped that this would be profitable to me when I should die, because I desired soon to be with my God” -Julian of Norwich, pg 24, Julian of Norwich’s “Showings”: From Vision to Book by Denise Nowakowski Baker [8]
The choice of this fear craving mystic seems somewhat ironic, especially after this worship leader has just insisted that fear based approach to spirituality doesn’t work.[9]
Wrapping up her lulling talk, the pastoress of worship finishes with a prayerful assurance that Jesus told great stories, but it is our stories of our journeys that make God’s grand story.
Watch the half hour sermonette here:
IF: Gathering Leader/Pastor Melissa Greene—A Female Version of McLaren, Bell, Rohr, and Merton
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=17015
Why should this presentation be a concern to North American Christians? Recently, this pastoress has also been given a far reaching platform at other events. Please consider the following questions:
Is this the voice of truth?
What muddy streams of spirituality lurk beneath the perfect pitch and crystal clear harmony of this message?
Who is being influenced by, and accepting, this nice sounding message?
Isn’t universalism and inclusiveness at odds with the Bible?
Can Satan use beautiful things (people, music, words) to draw people into deception?
Is this part of the greater plan of the emerging church network’s agenda for the new kind of inclusive gospel-free spirituality to invade Christianity?
If so, aren’t all those involved in this muddy message… deceivers?
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 shall be according to their works.
2 Cor. 11: 13-15
Endnotes:
[1] http://apprising.org/2008/05/10/who-is-richard-rohr/
[2] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madeleine_L’Engle
[3] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aldous_Huxley
[4] http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/brianmclaren.htm
[5] http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/merton.htm
[6] http://rootedinchrist.org/2010/11/30/the-great-emergence-or-a-great-deception/
http://thebereanlibrary.com/archives/category/phyllis-tickle-2
[7] http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/julianofnorwich.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julian_of_Norwich
[8] https://books.google.ca/books?id=ZEcABAAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover#v=onepage&q&f=false
[9] For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. 1 Cor. 14:33
Related:
Was Satan in charge of music in Heaven?
http://www.gotquestions.org/Satan-music.html
Was Lucifer originally an angel of worship?
https://carm.org/questions/about-demons/was-lucifer-originally-angel-worship
***NEW: (MAY 8, 2015)
Melissa Greene
Melissa Greene is the pastor of worship and arts at GracePointe Church in Franklin, Tennessee. The church made national headlines in January of 2015 as senior pastor, Stan Mitchell, declared his church now accepts homosexual marriage.12
When I pull up Greene’s website, I immediately notice the picture of her sitting in a Yoga position. In a May 25th, 2014 message on her website titled “Worth,” Greene admits to reading emerging church pioneer Brian McLaren’s book, A Generous Orthodoxy (and McLaren spoke at GracePointe in the fall of 2014). Greene favorably quotes other prolific New Spirituality names: Phyllis Tickle, Richard Rohr, Frederick Buechner, Rob Bell, Nicholas Wolterstorff, Thomas Merton, Peter Gomes, Aldous Huxley—a list that reads like a veritable who’s who in emergent and contemplative heresy.
In “Worth,” Greene declares that, “Christianity is broad and diverse.”13 Considering that many of her influences accept all religions as being of God, there is no doubt to what she means when she states this. Greene also made the audacious statement: “The most devastating fear in people’s lives is the fear of God.”14 She attempts to validate her statement by taking verses out of context and misapplying them.SOURCE: IF it is of God—Answering the questions of IF:Gathering
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=17334
Posted in another gospel, arts in worship, books, Buddhism, Christianity, compromise of the church, conferences, contemplative spirituality, eastern religion, ecumenism, emerging church, mysticism, panentheism, religion, Roman Catholicism, spiritual disciplines, spiritual formation, universalism | Tagged Julian of Norwich | Leave a Comment »
Rob Bell Suggests Bible Not Relevant to Today’s Culture
Former Mars Hill church Pastor Rob Bell has been raising a lot of eyebrows for his evolving views about Christianity and the Bible.
Bell and his wife, Kristen, recently appeared with Oprah Winfrey on her “Super Soul Sunday” program, where he suggested the Bible is irrelevant to today’s culture.
“We’re moments away. I think the culture is already there. And the church will continue to be even more irrelevant when it quotes letters from 2,000 years ago as their best defense,” he told Winfrey when asked about the Church embracing gay marriage.
More here:
http://www.cbn.com/cbnnews/us/2015/February/Rob-Bell-Suggests-Bible-Not-Relevant-to-Todays-Culture/
Also see:
CONTEMPORARY CHRISTIAN MUSIC PIONEER DON FRANCISCO DEPARTS FROM BIBLICAL INERRANCY
http://standupforthetruth.com/2015/07/contemporary-christian-music-pioneer-don-francisco-departs-from-biblical-inerrancy/
Posted in Christianity, Oprah, the Bible, the world listens | Tagged Christianity, Oprah Winfrey, Rob Bell, the Bible | Leave a Comment »
It was only a matter of time…
ROB BELL PROMOTES “MOTHER GOD” AND “APOPHATIC MEDITATION” IN NEW “LITURGISTS” SHOW
In addition to (or perhaps because of) his new The Rob Bell Show on Oprah Winfrey’s OWN channel, Rob Bell has been busy with his ZIMZUM of Love book promotions and now his new The Liturgists program, a podcast he has quietly launched with a dozen or so other theological partners who “do not actively promote our names and personal images” for ego reasons.
What do The Liturgists talk about when they talk about God the Father? Well actually, they talk about God the Mother. . .
Read more here:
Related:
God our Mother?
God Our Mother is a new song by husband and wife musicians Michael and Lisa Gungor…
https://muddystreams.wordpress.com/2014/06/07/god-our-mother/
MICHAEL GUNGOR’S “LITURGISTS” GROUP CHARGING 100 PEOPLE $300 TO QUESTION CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE
http://standupforthetruth.com/2015/06/michael-gungors-liturgists-group-charging-100-people-300-to-question-christian-doctrine/
CONTEMPORARY CHRISTIAN MUSIC PIONEER DON FRANCISCO DEPARTS FROM BIBLICAL INERRANCY
http://standupforthetruth.com/2015/07/contemporary-christian-music-pioneer-don-francisco-departs-from-biblical-inerrancy/
Also see:
CONTEMPORARY CHRISTIAN MUSIC PIONEER DON FRANCISCO DEPARTS FROM BIBLICAL INERRANCY
http://standupforthetruth.com/2015/07/contemporary-christian-music-pioneer-don-francisco-departs-from-biblical-inerrancy/
Posted in contemplative spirituality, divine feminine, emerging church, mysticism | Tagged Rob Bell | 1 Comment »
“For 10 minutes at the World Economic Forum here on Wednesday afternoon, a conference room jammed with more than 100 high-powered delegates was entirely silent.
The rare interlude of equanimity came during a panel called Leading Mindfully, a discussion of how meditation was impacting the workplace.
And with a mix of breathing instructions, management theory and personal reflection, the session provided a stark counterpoint to the frenzied discussions about geopolitical instability, currency fluctuations and climate change in nearby rooms.”
Read more here:
World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland Turns to Mindfulness Meditation
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=16846
Posted in conferences, contemplative spirituality, eastern religion, new age, politics, the world listens | Tagged Mindfulness Meditation, World Economic Forum | Leave a Comment »
This should clear up a muddy controversy. . .
Boy Who Claimed He Visited Heaven Reads Bible and Recants Story; LifeWay to Pull Book From Stores
LifeWay Christian Stores has come under fire for selling a book based on a boy who claimed he visited heaven and who is now saying that the story is false.
The book, titled The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven, has been available since last year and tells the story of 6-year-old Alex Malarkey who suffered a horrific car accident in 2004. The crash paralyzed Alex and it was unlikely he’d survive after slipping into a coma. He awoke two months later and claimed that angels took him through the gates of heaven to meet Jesus.
Malarkey addressed the validity of the story in a letter titled “An Open Letter to LifeWay and Other Sellers, Buyers, and Marketers of Heaven Tourism, by the Boy Who Did Not Come Back From Heaven.”
“I said I went to heaven because I thought it would get me attention. When I made the claims that I did, I had never read the Bible,” he explained. “People have profited from lies, and continue to. They should read the Bible, which is enough. The Bible is the only source of truth.”
He also laid out what he now believes is the clear path to salvation in the letter.
“It is only through repentance of your sins and a belief in Jesus as the Son of God, who died for your sins (even though he committed none of his own) so that you can be forgiven may you learn of Heaven outside of what is written in the Bible… not by reading a work of man,” he stated.
More here:
Posted in another gospel, books, movies | Leave a Comment »
Franklin Graham Blasts Duke University’s Muslim Call to Prayer; Tells Donors to ‘Withhold Their Support’
Duke University has come under fire for making the decision air the Muslim call to prayer on Friday, beginning this week; Rev. Franklin Graham has come out against the school’s decision.
“This opportunity represents a larger commitment to religious pluralism that is at the heart of Duke’s mission,” Christy Lohr Sapp, Duke Chapel’s associate dean for religious life, said in a statement to Duke Today. “It connects the university to national trends in religious accommodation.”
The Muslim call to prayer, known as the adhan will air for three minutes at a “moderately amplified” level to announce the call to prayer, and an English translation will follow. The service will take place in the chapel basement every Friday at 1:00 p.m. and is open to the public. Members of the Duke Muslim Students Association will perform the chant, which will be released from the chapel’s bell tower. . .
More here:
Update:
Duke backs down, cancels Muslim call to prayer from chapel tower
http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2015/01/15/allahu-akbar-duke-university-to-broadcast-muslim-call-to-prayer-from-chapel/
Posted in eastern religion, paganism, religion | Leave a Comment »
Do We All Believe in the Same God?
By Dr. Stephen M. KirbyA commonly heard claim is that Jews, Christians and Muslims all believe in “the same God.” These are comforting words and of great assistance to those wishing to engage in interfaith dialogues and tri-faith ventures. But is this true? To answer that question, let’s look at what is said and taught about Jews and Christians by Allah, the god of Islam, and Muhammad, Allah’s prophet. We’ll start with the Koran.
The Koran
Muslims believe the Koran is the infallible, timeless and perfect word of Allah. So what does Allah say in the Koran about Jews and Christians?
To set the stage, Allah states that the only religion acceptable to him is Islam (e.g., 3:19 and 3:85). And Allah states that Islam is to be made superior over all other religions, even if the non-Muslims don’t like it (e.g., 9:33, 48:28, and 61:9).
Allah states that he is angry with the Jews, and the Christians are misguided in their beliefs (1:7). In fact, Allah curses the Jews and Christians (9:30). He states that the Jews and Christians are among the worst of creatures who “will abide in the fire of Hell” (98:6), while Muslims are the best of creatures (3:110 and 98:7). . .
More here:
http://www.frontpagemag.com/2014/dr-stephen-m-kirby/do-we-all-believe-in-the-same-god/print/
Posted in interfaith, religion | Tagged Christians and Muslims | Leave a Comment »
In September of 2013, Prairie Bible college announced that well known worship leader Brian Doerksen would be joining the Prairie faculty as the new Director of Music & Worship Arts. The program, which focuses on songwriting and worship within the church, was to start this fall with a small enrollment limit of 12 students. Earlier this year, in February 2014, 55 attended Doerksen’s one week class on “Emotionally Healthy Worship.”[1] The reason for the title of this class is that Brian Doerksen has been combining his music with what he has learned from the contemplative author and pastor Peter Scazzero.
Scazzero is known for his Emotionally Healthy Spirituality resources which are based on practicing the Daily Office of St. Benedict, silence and centering prayer. These Scazzero learned while spending time at monasteries, chanting the set hours of prayer with Trappist monks.
Centering: Scripture commands us to “be still before the lord and wait patiently for him” (Psalm 37:7). We are called to move into God’s presence and rest there. That alone is no small feat. For this reason I often spend two to 20 minutes centering myself so that I can let go of my tensions, distractions and sensations, and rest in the love of God.
When you find your mind wandering, let your breathing bring you back. As you breathe in, ask God to fill you with the Holy Spirit. As you breathe out, exhale all that is sinful, false and not of Him. . .
Silence: Dallas Willard has called silence and solitude the two most radical disciplines of the Christian life. Solitude is the practice of being absent from people and things to attend to God. Silence is the practice of quieting every inner and outer voice to attend to God. Henri Nouwen wrote, “without solitude it is virtually impossible to live a spiritual life.” – Peter Scazzero[2]
In May of this year Brian Doerksen, pioneer of integrating Scazzero’s EHS theology and practice into worship music, joined Peter Scazzero for a conference. There he not only led worship but also offered an Emotionally Healthy Songwriting Workshop.[3]
Watch Doerksen’s promotion of this event…
Next year Brian Doerksen will be the key speaker at the Levite Summit (March 6-7, 2015) at Trinity Baptist Church in Kelowna, BC. Last year’s speakers at this event were Carolyn Arends and Erwin McManus.[4]
The Levite Summit is also advertised and promoted on the Canadian Pacific District Christian & Missionary Alliance website[5], where we read:
KEYNOTES
We are excited to announce Brian Doerksen as our 2015 keynote speaker. Brian is an award-winning singer/songwriter, recording artist, author, conference speaker and pastor. Brian’s band, the Shiyr Poets will also be leading worship!
GENERAL SESSIONS
There are aspects of arts and faith that affect every one of us, and these sessions will raise interesting discussions and allow for a deeper look at the arts, worship and Christian thought and leadership as well as sessions on conflict resolution, prayer, spiritual health / burnout and more.
Will Doerksen’s worship blend be leading the Levite Summit attendees into a deeper look at Peter Scazzero’s Emotionally Healthy Spirituality? If so, this is not the first time that the C&MA has promoted Peter Scazzero’s teachings[6]. This is also not the first time that the contemplative influence on Doerksen’s direction has been a concern, as his favourite reading list (on his website) includes contemplative authors Mark Buchanan (The rest of God, Spiritual Rhythm), Eugene Petersen and Henri Nouwen.[7]
Unfortunately, Brian Doerksen is not the only Christian musician who may be leading their fans and listeners across the ecumenical bridge of contemplative unhealthy spirituality[8].
__________
[1] Brian Doerksen in concert
http://www.threehillscapital.com/index.php/community-events/community-events/4295-brian-doerksen-in-concert
See also:
Creating Emotionally Healthy Worship Music with Brian Doerksen
Feb 24 – 28, 2014 @ Prairie Campus, Three Hills, Alberta
http://www.prairie.edu/bdcourse
[2] The Power of Being Still (and Silent) Before God
http://blog.exponential.org/2012/12/an-ancient-discipline-for-surviving-the-storms-of-church-planting/
[3] EHL Conference 2014 and The Emotionally Healthy Leader
http://www.emotionallyhealthy.org/ehl-conference-2014-and-the-emotionally-healthy-leader/
[4] http://levitesummit.com/summit-2014/
[5] http://pacificdistrict.ca/levite-summit/
[6] Peter Scazzero’s Contemplative Bridge Crossing to Canada
https://muddystreams.wordpress.com/2013/02/12/peter-scazzeros-contemplative-bridge-coming-to-canada/
Scazzeros Spread Contemplative Spirituality at C&MA Conference
https://muddystreams.wordpress.com/2010/05/13/scazzeros-spread-contemplative-spirituality-at-cma-conference/
[7] briandoerksen.com
[8] For example, Gungor denies the Genesis creation account, Steve Bell has toured the speaking circuit with Brian McLaren:
God our Mother?
https://muddystreams.wordpress.com/2014/06/07/god-our-mother/
McLaren’s Refreshing Winds at CMU – Part 4
http://mennolite.wordpress.com/2011/03/14/mclarens-refreshing-winds-at-cmu-part-4/
_____
UPDATE:
COLLEGE ALERT: Letters to Lighthouse Trails Prove Prairie Bible Institute (Alberta) Has Gone Emergent
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=17318
_____
Continued (Part 2). . .
Brian Doerksen’s Progression
In MAY 15, 2008 Brian Doerksen said:
“…I know of the Iona community…. When we went through the collapse of the musical The Father’s House in 1996, I was so broken and confused. I found myself being incredibly drawn to the liturgical, contemplative expressions of spirituality, both in prayer and in music, the Taize, and I actually wanted to make a little bit of a shift in that direction. I just loved the thought of being in the midst of things that were more ancient, that weren’t so contemporary. I started to go that way, and the Lord made it abundantly clear to me, both in my own heart and through my wife and some very good friends, that that wasn’t the path he had for me. The Lord made it very clear to me at that point, “I’ve called you into a more contemporary expression, but I want you to bring what you see as the timeless God truth into that.” I have an immense respect for Cathy Hardy, who’s a musician in Mission, B.C. and does the local Taize services. She’s got an album out of Taize music. It deeply moves me and personally renews me, but it’s not what God has called me to do. So I can cheer them on from the sidelines: “That’s fantastic. Go for it.” I think we need people who find fresh ways of expressing God’s truth in every musical style. We need diversity. I say that still believing what I said before that at the core we need folk songs, songs that people can participate in. My brother is an Anglican priest in Moose Jaw, and he loves that world. I love visiting that world, and I can see so much good in it. It’s just not where God has called me to live.
-Songs of Lament: An interview with Brian Doerksen (Part 2)
http://canadianchristianity.com/songs-lament-interview-brian-doerksen-part-2-3424/
Three years later, Doerksen shared. . .
“My reflections on 2 ½ days attending the ‘Faith & Culture’ Conference (amazingly it was more like a conversation) in Colorado with Dr. Miroslav Volf[1]; hosted by Brian Zahnd at the St Malo Retreat Catholic Retreat Center. (Aug 29 – 31, 2011)
…Brian(Zahnd)[2] hosted most of the sessions (along with some help from Brad Jersak, a wonderful thinker and former pastor also from Abbotsford, and a pastor from Denver; Joe Beach) by setting the stage and then doing an interview with Miroslav at the end of his teaching presentation before opening it up to questions from the group of 50 people or so present.”– Thick truth in thin air, September 23, 2011
(briandoerksen.com/blog/thick-truth-in-thin-air)
—–
[1] Prof. Volf was the lead author of the Christian response to “A Common Word Between Us and You,” the historic open letter signed by 138 Muslim scholars, clerics, and intellectuals, released in October 2007, which identified some core common ground at the heart of the Christian and Muslim faiths (the complete text can be found online at http://www.acommonword.com).
Source: http://faith.yale.edu/people/miroslav-volf
[2]UPDATED 2015: Brian Zahnd has written the foreword in Brad Jersak’s latest book called A More Christlike God: A More Beautiful Gospel, published by Plain Truth Ministries (www.ptm.org), where Jersak is a senior editor of their CWR blog (Christianity Without Religion). The recommended reading on the Plain Truth Ministries website speaks volumes (www.ptm.org/quad/bookList.htm). Jersak’s book is reviewed and endorsed by Derek Flood, Richard Rohr, William Paul Young, Brian McLaren, Eugene Peterson.
___
RELATED:
CONTEMPORARY CHRISTIAN MUSIC PIONEER DON FRANCISCO DEPARTS FROM BIBLICAL INERRANCY
http://standupforthetruth.com/2015/07/contemporary-christian-music-pioneer-don-francisco-departs-from-biblical-inerrancy/
Posted in arts in worship, contemplative spirituality, ecumenism, Roman Catholicism, spiritual disciplines, spiritual formation | Leave a Comment »
ROB BELL GETS HIS “OWN” TV SHOW DEC. 21
OWN television has just announced the premiere of its new series titled, The Rob Bell Show. The same Rob Bell who challenges the truth of the Bible and continues to influence millions of fans around the world (having just returned from a national tour with New Agers Deepak Chopra and Oprah), despite his fall from biblical Christianity. The same former pastor of Mars Hill church who denies the doctrine of a real Hell (making him a heretic in the true sense of the word). He is the author of many books pushing unScriptural doctrine including Velvet Elvis, Love Wins and his new The Zimzum of Love, giving people a “startling new way of looking at marriage.” (Bell has come out in support of homosexual marriage.)
Bell debuted on OWN for Winfrey’s “Super Soul Sunday” program in Nov. 2013 to discuss his latest book, What We Talk About When We Talk About God, which was her premiere pick for the “Oprah’s Super Soulful Book of the Month.”
More here:
http://standupforthetruth.com/2014/12/rob-bell-gets-tv-show-dec-21/
Update:
An Insider’s View of Oprah’s Life You Want Weekend Tour 2014 With Rob Bell – Bringing Americans to the New Age “Christ”
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=16482
Posted in emerging church, new age, Oprah | Leave a Comment »
Rick Warren’s Call for Christians to Unite With Catholics, ‘Holy Father’ Raising Concerns
In a new video, megachurch leader and author Rick Warren is calling for Christians to unite with Roman Catholics and “Pope Francis,” who Warren recently referred to as the “Holy Father”—a move that is raising concerns among Christians nationwide and is resulting in calls for Warren to repent.
Warren made the comments following his visit to the Vatican last month, where he spoke at an interfaith conference on the “Complementarity of Man and Woman.”
“We have far more in common than what divides us,” he said in the two-minute video released by the Catholic News Service on Wednesday, described as being an outline for “an ecumenical vision for Catholics and Protestants to work together to defend the sanctity of life, sex and marriage.”
“They would all say, ‘We believe in the Trinity; we believe in the Bible; we believe in the resurrection; we believe in salvation through Jesus Christ,” Warren asserted, speaking of the various denominations within Christianity, of which he included Roman Catholicism. “These are the big issues.”
More here:
Posted in another gospel, Christianity, ecumenism, Purpose Driven, religion, Rick Warren, roads to Rome, Roman Catholicism | 3 Comments »
“. . . it is hard to understand how a Christian church opening its sanctuary for Islamic prayers that renonce Jesus Christ contributes to interfaith tolerance. Muslims would never allow a Christian to preach the Gospel in a mosque. Palestinian Muslims continue to ban all Jews and Christians from praying at the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. It would appear that “interfaith dialogue and tolerance” are just more code words calling for Muslims to rise up and conquer.”
– Muslims Chant to Remove Jesus at Washington’s National Cathedral by David Lazarus
http://www.israeltoday.co.il/NewsItem/tabid/178/nid/25544/Default.aspx
Posted in interfaith | Leave a Comment »
“How sad . . . it was to learn that the National Cathedral recently invited a Muslim imam to praise Allah in an official worship service there.
One report noted, “The planners say this is the first time the cathedral has invited Muslims to lead their own prayers there, which they call a ‘powerful symbolic gesture.”’
Columnist Robert Knight, in his article “A Brave New World of Intolerance,” notes: “The cathedral, indeed, sent a powerful message—of weakness. Many Muslims will see it as akin to raising their flag over a conquered enemy.”
The imam came and said his prayers there last Friday. Meanwhile, the officials kicked out a brave, unruly Christian lady who was objecting out loud to this event.
It is ironic to me that on the day I write this (11/17/14), I received an email from Christian Concern out of England on their plan to “launch an initiative to help protect those in the UK who want to leave Islam but fear the consequences of doing so.”
They write: “Entitled ‘Safe Haven’, the project has been launched in response to the brutal treatment in the UK of some who have left Islam and become Christians.” Some of those who will participate in their campaign on 11/18/14 include former Muslims who have converted to Christianity. According to strict Muslim law, the penalty for leaving Islam should be death.
One of those ex-Muslims who plan to testify for “Safe Haven” said, “My own family would rather see me dead.” In short, tolerance toward someone else’s religion seems to come only from the Christian side of the fence, but never the other side, where “tolerance” is crushed under the bulldozer of a totalitarian ideology.
America is a free country, and if the Episcopal Church wants to invite an imam to say prayers at the National Cathedral, who can stop them?
But are these professing Christians pleasing the Lord? Jesus Christ said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but by Me.” I’m sure their answer would be something like: “Tolerance. That’s why we invited the imam. We all worship the same God anyway.”
G. K. Chesterton once said, “Tolerance is the virtue of the man without convictions.””
-JERRY NEWCOMBE , CP OP-ED CONTRIBUTOR
Praising Allah at the National Cathedral
http://www.christianpost.com/news/praising-allah-at-the-national-cathedral-130002/#!
Related:
National Cathedral Hosts Islamic Prayers; Lone Protestor Interrupts
https://muddystreams.wordpress.com/2014/11/15/national-cathedral-hosts-islamic-prayers-lone-protester-interrupts/
Posted in Christianity, compromise of the church, eastern religion, interfaith, politics, religion, the world listens | Leave a Comment »
As the spiritual mud thickens, the direction of once prominent emerging church leaders becomes more clear…
The following is an update to a previous blog posting here at Muddy Streams called Oprah’s New Agey Introduction of Rob Bell and his New Agey Message.
This past weekend, former evangelical pastor Rob Bell and former television icon Oprah wrapped up their national 8-city “Oprah’s The Life You Want Weekend” New Age tour. Joining Bell and Oprah on the tour were other two New Age sympathizers – Deepak Chopra and Elizabeth Gilbert (Eat, Pray, Love). There was a time, not too many years ago, when Bell’s best-selling book Velvet Elvis was being read by millions of young evangelicals, and the book was touted by Christian leaders and college professors. It was a disaster in discernment in the church as even back then Bell was promoting the New Age. . .
Read more here:
Rob Bell and Oprah Wrap Up New Age Tour—EQUALLY YOKED
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=16411
Update:
An Insider’s View of Oprah’s Life You Want Weekend Tour 2014 With Rob Bell – Bringing Americans to the New Age “Christ”
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=16482
***NEW:
*May 12, 2015:
Letter to the Editor: Oprah Winfrey Becomes Stanford University’s “Office of Religious Life’s 2015 Rathburn Visiting Fellow”
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=17360
*July 2015:
CONTEMPORARY CHRISTIAN MUSIC PIONEER DON FRANCISCO DEPARTS FROM BIBLICAL INERRANCY
(is okay with Rob Bell)
http://standupforthetruth.com/2015/07/contemporary-christian-music-pioneer-don-francisco-departs-from-biblical-inerrancy/
Posted in emerging church, new age, Oprah, the world listens, universalism | Leave a Comment »
___
VIDEO: Imam Hamad Ahmad Chebli Praises Allah Before Bowed Heads on House of Representatives Floor
At the same time as a Christian woman was being forcibly ejected from the National Cathedral for loudly praying “Jesus Christ is Lord” before Muslim prayers began, the United States House of Representatives allowed a Muslim imam to give the opening prayer, in which he praised Allah in front of Boehner and other Republicans bowing their heads. Imam Hamad Ahmad Chebli of the Islamic Society of New Jersey was invited by Democrat Rep. Rush Holt (NJ).
What a pity that this alleged moderate imam didn’t take the opportunity to condemn the mass slaughter of Christians and non-Muslims across the world in the cause of Islam, or the vicious Jew-hatred spewed by millions of Islamic clerics the world over. But it’s not surprising.
More here:
Posted in politics, religion | Leave a Comment »
National Cathedral Hosts Islamic Prayers; Lone Protester Interrupts Service
BY STEPHANIE SAMUEL, CHRISTIAN POST REPORTER
November 14, 2014The Washington National Cathedral hosted it first Muslim prayer service Friday afternoon in an effort to promote interfaith prayer and improved global relations between Muslims and Christians
UPDATE: 3:31 p.m. The Muslim prayer service held at the Washington National Cathedral was briefly disrupted by a protester, according to a local NBC report.
“Jesus Christ died on that cross over there!” a woman said loudly, immediately after announcements at the beginning of the service were made. “He is the reason why we are to worship only him. Jesus Christ is our lord and savior!”
According to the NBC report, she continued, “We have built, and allowed you here in mosques across this country. Why can’t you worship in your mosque, and leave our chuches alone?”
The protester was then escorted out of the cathedral, News4’s Kristin Wright reported. She was removed without incident, but she continued her protest once she was taken to an adjoining space. . .
READ MORE HERE:
Posted in Christianity, compromise of the church, interfaith, religion | 2 Comments »
The following is a clip of Oprah introducing one of her speakers, Pastor Rob Bell at Live Your Best Life (Day 2) in Newark, September 27, 2014. Bell tells the audience that if you are breathing, where ever you are is sacred ground, and everything is spiritual.
______
Update:
An Insider’s View of Oprah’s Life You Want Weekend Tour 2014 With Rob Bell – Bringing Americans to the New Age “Christ”
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=16482
***NEW: May 12, 2015
Letter to the Editor: Oprah Winfrey Becomes Stanford University’s “Office of Religious Life’s 2015 Rathburn Visiting Fellow”
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=17360
Posted in new age, Oprah | 5 Comments »
Russell Moore, Rick Warren to Join ‘Pope Francis’ With Muslims, Buddhists for Interfaith Conference
by Heather ClarkROME – Russell Moore, the president of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, and Saddleback megachurch leader Rick Warren will team up with Roman Catholic Pontiff Francis later this month for an interfaith Vatican conference on marriage and family.
“Complementarity of Man and Woman,” will be held Nov. 17-19 at the Vatican, and is expected to feature more than 30 speakers from over 20 countries. According to the Catholic News Service, those of the Jewish, Islamic, Buddhist, Hindu, Jaina Shasana, Taoist and Sikh religions will be present, as well as Roman Catholics and professing Christians.
The event is sponsored by the Pontifical Council for the Family, the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, and the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity. . .
More here:
Russell Moore, Rick Warren to Join ‘Pope Francis’ With Muslims, Buddhists for Interfaith Conference
UPDATE:
Rick Warren at the Vatican Humanum Conference: “We All Love Jesus Christ”
http://www.donotbesurprised.com/2014/11/rick-warren-at-vatican-humanum.html
Will Rick Warren Play a Role In Persuading Some Calvary Chapel Pastors To Follow His Lead Towards Ecumenical Evangelicalism?
http://www.understandthetimes.org/rwbbe3.shtml
Posted in conferences, ecumenism, interfaith, religion, Rick Warren, Roman Catholicism, the world listens | Leave a Comment »
Kirk Cameron, who has been making appearances promoting a new documentary film, is now being called to repentance after raising concerns by statements he made encouraging Christians to celebrate Halloween. . .
. . . Mike Gendron of ProclaimingtheGospel.org, however, told Christian News Network that he does not agree, stating that the historical origins of Halloween are connected to the pagan practices of Roman Catholicism, and that its affiliations are far removed from biblical Christianity.
“The two faiths are diametrically opposed to one another,” Gendron stated. “I strongly disagree with Kirk Cameron and would encourage him to avoid celebrating anything that has to do with the pagan practices of the apostate Roman Catholic Church,” he said. . .
Read more here:
Kirk Cameron Called to ‘Repent’ for Encouraging Christians to Celebrate Halloween
http://christiannews.net/2014/10/31/kirk-cameron-called-to-repent-for-encouraging-christians-to-celebrate-halloween/
Posted in Christianity, compromise of the church, Roman Catholicism | 1 Comment »
As the bridges of religious tolerance connect every religion except Christianity, what will this nation be like in 10 years?
“. . . pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer in Nazi Germany . . . served in the nation that gradually went from a sophisticated, Christian country to a place that persecuted Jews and Christians fighting for freedom from Hitler’s totalitarian regime. Bonhoeffer chose to speak out during the beginning of the rise of the Nazi party and eventually lost his life when things in the country drastically changed in just 10 years’ time.
“The idea of Jews and Christians being not just persecuted, but put to death like Bonhoeffer himself was, was unfathomable . . . You wonder sometimes well why didn’t the Jews see this and move? It was unfathomable to them that in a country like [Germany] that could happen. Same thing here, you think it’s just impossible for that to happen in America. And maybe it is.
“But what we do know is that if we continue down this path that things are not going to get better and that the chance of something really bad beginning to happen where your faith is really constrained or your lives are really in danger becomes a possibility down the road.”
– Rick Santorum on Why We May Be ‘One Generation Away’ From Christian Persecution in America
http://www.christianpost.com/news/rick-santorum-on-why-we-may-be-one-generation-away-from-christian-persecution-in-america-128876/#!
Related:
Does the military have a problem with Jesus?
http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2014/10/31/does-military-have-problem-with-jesus/
Posted in Christianity, persecution, religion | Leave a Comment »
The following video is about that ‘peaceful’ religion, beheadings, desensitization, and the indoctrination of children in Canada.
In a shocking video of radical Islam in a Canadian school, Toronto-area Islamic Jaffari Centre stages a beheading play for kids . . .
___
Related:
New: PARENTS PULL SON FROM CLASS BECAUSE SCHOOL IS TEACHING ISLAM
http://www.breitbart.com/Breitbart-California/2014/10/31/Parents-Pull-Son-From-Class-Because-School-Is-Teaching-Islam
New: Former Marine banned from daughter’s school after dispute over Islam lesson
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2014/10/31/marine-dad-upset-with-assignment-on-islam-banned-from-daughters-high-school/
‘There Is No God But Allah’: Father Pulls Son From School Over Pro-Islam Textbook
http://christiannews.net/2014/10/27/there-is-no-god-but-allah-father-pulls-son-from-school-over-pro-islam-textbook/
Is Islam a religion of peace?
ISLAM | The West’s definition of ‘peace’ differs dramatically from Islam’s
http://www.worldmag.com/2014/10/is_islam_a_religion_of_peace
Posted in eastern religion, religion, youth | Tagged Canadian school, desensitization, indoctrination | Leave a Comment »
Wherever evidence rises to the surface that power has bred corruption, a sordid story is always buried somewhere beneath the mud. A year after Chuck Smith passed away, it appears that things have gone amuck in the ministry he left behind. Has ecumenism, power and abuse stained the Calvary Chapel movement that began with one faithful servant? Has the writing been on the wall? See the following links. . . they are not posted here to spread gossip, but rather to call concerned Christians to prayer.
Family of late pastor Chuck Smith sues Calvary Chapel
The lawsuit alleges elder abuse and wrongful takeover of the founding pastor’s property.
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/smith-636509-suit-chapel.html
Family Members of Late Pastor Chuck Smith Sue Calvary Chapel, Claim Elder Abuse and Wrongful Takeover of His Property
http://www.christianpost.com/news/family-members-of-late-pastor-chuck-smith-sue-calvary-chapel-claim-elder-abuse-and-wrongful-takeover-of-his-property-127135/#!
The Ecclesiastical Domino Effect
by James Jacob Prasch
http://moriel.org/MorielArchive/index.php/discernment/the-ecclesiastical-domino-effect
Watch: My brother’s succession plan for Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3D9Y-cQmGsE&feature=youtu.be
Related:
*Tragic Tuesday: Calvary Chapel’s Pastor’s Perspective Counsel that Roman Catholic Confirmation is Not Harmful
http://www.spiritual-research-network.com/broderson-stewart-roman-catholic-confirmation.html
*Response to Brian Brodersen’s Remarks on Islam
http://moriel.org/MorielArchive/index.php/discernment/islam/response-to-brian-brodersens-remarks-on-islam
*Some disturbing issues about Brian Brodersen can be found at the following link (*note: Muddy Streams administration does not necessarily endorse or agree with the views on the following link):
http://galatiansfour.blogspot.ca/2013/11/brian-brodersen-just-another-ecumenical.html
UPDATED:
Will Rick Warren Play a Role In Persuading Some Calvary Chapel Pastors To Follow His Lead Towards Ecumenical Evangelicalism?
http://www.understandthetimes.org/rwbbe3.shtml
***NEW: Did Brian Brodersen actually say this?
Brian Head Welch and Todd Bentley–Calvary Chapel says, “He’s Not Backing Those Dudes”–Really?
https://thelasthiker.wordpress.com/2015/02/16/brian-head-welch-and-todd-bentley-calvary-chapel-says-hes-not-backing-those-dudes-really/
Posted in Christianity, compromise of the church, ecumenism | Leave a Comment »
It is no surprise to read about YWAM leaders in Switzerland earning their MA in a Spiritual Formation course from the University of the Nations with Renovaré at its core (see: A Public Letter From Renovare Reveals Troubling Connection with YWAM). The effects are already rapidly spreading throughout YWAM worldwide, but it was only a matter of time. Contemplative spirituality has been lurking quietly in this organization for a few years.
For example, on the YWAM Knowledge Base website is a Spiritual Growth Reading List that was compiled in 2010 as part of the ‘Savior Care’ files in ‘Missionary Care,’ which is essentially about the self care of YWAM leaders. Recommended books to read ‘no matter what’ include authors Ruth Haley Barton, Tony Jones, Peter Scazzero and ‘anything Henri Nouwen has written’. Some of the other resources recommended for Spiritual Growth on this list are:
Sacred Pathways by Gary Thomas
Come Be My Light by Mother Teresa
The Reflective Life by Ken Gire
Sacred Reading: The Ancient Art of Lectio Divina by Michael Casey
A Guide to Living the Truth: Saint Benedict’s Teaching on Humility by Micheal Casey
A Testament of Devotion by Thomas R. Kelly
Open Heart Open Mind by Thomas Merton
The Way is Made by Walking by Arthur Paul Boers
Letters from the Desert by Carlo Carretto
Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership: Seeking God in the Crucible of Ministry by Ruth Haley Barton
The Contemplative Pastor by Eugene Peterson
Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation by Palmer Parker
The Poems of St. John of the Cross
Another way that contemplative spiritual formation may be influencing YWAM leaders is through various retreat centers. Since 2010, YWAM Canada (based in Vancouver, B.C.) has been promoting retreat centers that specialize in ecumenical contemplative spirituality (see: Retreat Centers @ http://www.ywamvancouver.org). One of the retreat centers YWAM recommends is the Mennonite Brethren affiliated Mark Centre. In fact, the founder of Youth With A Mission himself, Loren Cunningham, recently wrote the foreword in a new contemplative training resource written by the Mark Centre directors (see: What Will Ears Hear in The Mark Centre’s New Book?). The Mark Centre’s overriding goal and strategy is “To serve thousands who will inspire millions to embrace a lifestyle of listening to God” through contemplative spirituality (see: The Mark Centre and Silent Prayer – Strategy to Affect Millions). Will YWAM, with their worldwide influence, achieve that same goal?
There are just as many theological problems within YWAM as there are sincere young Christians with good intentions, but now a dangerous dose of contemplative spirituality has been added to the mixture. Pray for this Christian organization and others who may be leading sincere disciples of Jesus over the contemplative bridge back to Rome.
Posted in another gospel, Christianity, contemplative spirituality, Mennonite Brethren Conference, spiritual formation, youth | 1 Comment »
Something to chew on . . .
Is Your Church Worship More Pagan than Christian?
There is a great misunderstanding in churches of the purpose of music in Christian worship. Churches routinely advertise their “life-changing” or “dynamic” worship that will “bring you closer to God” or “change your life.” Certain worship CD’s promise that the music will “enable you to enter the presence of God.”
Read this thought provoking article here:
Posted in arts in worship, Christianity, compromise of the church, hypnotism, mysticism, paganism, religion, seeker friendly | Leave a Comment »
As the seeds sown in the emergent mud bear fruit…
You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Matthew 7:16
WHY AND HOW THE SON OF TONY CAMPOLO BECAME AN AGNOSTIC HUMANIST
Bart Campolo announcing he is agnostic does not surprise most people. After all, his father Tony Campolo is the head of Red Letter Christians, an Emergent Church founder of a model based on “did God really say” approach to truth being relative.
No, what is interesting (and the reason we share this here), is the words Bart uses to describe his departure from faith Christianity belief …his tribe.
Read more here:
http://standupforthetruth.com/2014/10/son-tony-campolo-became-agnostic-humanist/
_______
Recently related:
Brian McLaren Leads Commitment Ceremony At Son’s Same-Sex Wedding
http://www.christianitytoday.com/gleanings/2012/september/brian-mclaren-leads-commitment-ceremony-at-sons-same-sex.html
Posted in another gospel, atheism, Christianity, compromise of the church, emerging church, religion | 5 Comments »
Weaving together personal faith and climate change
Although climate change is often thought of as something external to an individual person, it is interwoven with personal spirituality, as well. This was the conclusion of a panel of three faith leaders during a session at the Interfaith Summit on Climate Change held on 22 September.
The workshop, entitled “Ethics, Spirituality and Climate Change” was hosted by the World Council of Churches (WCC) and Religions for Peace as part of the summit which was held in New York City.
The session was held on the second day of the interfaith summit. Sunday the group signed a joint statement calling for climate justice and asking that world leaders meeting this week at the UN working toward a fair and binding agreement addressing climate change. . .
Read more here:
http://www.oikoumene.org/en/press-centre/news/weaving-together-personal-faith-and-climate-change
Also see:
Atheists, Baptists and Baha’i come together to tackle climate change
http://www.christiantoday.com/article/the.unifying.power.of.a.common.enemy/40881.htm
Posted in Christianity, compromise of the church, environment, interfaith, mother earth worship, paganism, religion, the world listens | Leave a Comment »
Obama to United Nations: ‘The U.S. Is Not at War with Islam; Islam Teaches Peace’ – Calls For “Interfaith Alliance”
In his address to the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, Barack Obama asserted that the United States is not fighting the religion of Islam in its efforts to stop the insurgency of the group known as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), because Islam, he said, is peaceful.
“[W]e have reaffirmed that the United States is not and never will be at war with Islam. Islam teaches peace,” he said to the gathering of world leaders in his sixth address before the UN. “Muslims the world over aspire to live with dignity and a sense of justice. And when it comes to America and Islam, there is no us and them—there is only us, because millions of Muslim Americans are part of the fabric of our country.”
More here:
Posted in interfaith, religion, the world listens | Leave a Comment »
Transformational Festivals — Interview / Carl Teichrib of Forcing Change.
Sep 3, 2014
Love For The Truth Radio with host — Cindy Hartline
These Transformational New Age/Pagan festivals are changing our Culture, Worldview, and adversely affecting the Church… bringing in a “New Spirituality”/Emergent Church. Festivals: Tomorrowland, Evolvefest, Burning Man, Bloom, Lightening in a Bottle, Tedx, Wildgoose, Greenbelt and more…
Listen here:
Posted in new age, paganism | Leave a Comment »
Peres proposes ‘UN for religions’ to pope at Vatican
Former president Shimon Peres emerged from a Vatican City audience with Pope Francis Thursday after proposing a kind of United Nations for religions.
Peres, 91, who was the world’s oldest head of state until his term ended six weeks ago, met with Francis amid heightened tensions in the Middle East. He used the talks to highlight human rights abuses from Hamas and to discuss the rise of anti-Semitism in Europe. But the main topic of conversation was Peres’s idea to create a UN-like organization he called “the United Religions.”
Peres said the Argentina-born pontiff was the only world figure respected enough to bring an end to the wars raging in the Middle East and elsewhere in the world. . .
More here:
Posted in interfaith, religion, Roman Catholicism | Tagged religions, United Nations, United Religions | Leave a Comment »
Is religion to blame?—War, Religion, and the Interfaith Global Peace Agenda
By Carl Teichrib
[A]ll modern trends point to the specter of a terrifying, bigger and more pitiless conformity.1—Erik von Kuehnelt-Leddihn
If a global motto exists, it would have to be “Give Peace a Chance.”2 From every corner of the world, from every academy and institution, from every school, public office and even many churches, the cry for global peace is being sounded.
Peace is a noble idea; but since mankind has had a written history, we have never known true peace. The scattered, bleached bones of human history testify to this brutal truth—millions upon millions of times over.
So is mankind incapable of achieving ultimate peace on Earth?
Read more here (and order booklet):
Posted in interfaith, peace plan, religion | Leave a Comment »
Who would have thought that the emerging church mixed with the contemplative spiritual element would converge with the anti-Israel campaign?
In the light of all that is going on in the world, what perilous times we are in as we see what is being said and done in the name of Christ to support those who oppose Israel.
“There are many reasons why the upcoming Friends of Sabeel conference in Canada requires a word of caution. Originally scheduled for this October, it has been postponed till next spring. . .
. . . the voices representing Christianity at these Friends of Sabeel conferences appear to be on the same page and claim to have the ‘true’ teaching. However, they are not on the ‘literal’ Bible page. Many of them seem to be opposed to the truth taught in scripture about Israel and may be presenting their own interpretations. These are views held by emerging church leaders, as well as by those who are part of the anti-Israel campaign. Also interesting is how the element of contemplative spirituality is going to be strongly represented at this conference.”
Read more here:
Canadian Friends of Sabeel or Enemies of Israel?
http://olivepress.wordpress.com/2014/08/22/friends-of-sabeel-canada/
Posted in Christianity, compromise of the church, conferences, contemplative spirituality, emerging church, Israel, mysticism, religion | Leave a Comment »
“. . . at the August 15-17 2014 gathering called “Three Rivers Festival of Hope” in Pittsburgh, PA, Franklin Graham (who led and organized the event) brought in Catholic Bishop David Zubik to give the opening prayer on stage with the large audience. During the bishop’s prayer, he acknowledged his belief that Protestants and Catholics are all part of the same church. While Graham’s public stand against homosexual marriage and his work to help the poor and needy is commendable, his giving a thumbs up to Roman Catholicism is moving the church closer and closer to complete apostasy. While we know that Graham’s father, Billy Graham, allowed Catholic counselors at his own crusade meetings (which sadly set a precedent), it’s a big jump to give a Catholic priest the platform at an evangelical event to lead in an ecumenical prayer that puts Catholicism on par with Protestant Christianity.”
Read more here:
Evangelical Church Takes Another Big Step Toward Rome—This Time? Franklin Graham
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=15966
Posted in Christianity, compromise of the church, ecumenism, religion, roads to Rome, Roman Catholicism | 1 Comment »
A year after they connected (see Rob Bell and Oprah Connect), these well known names continue their New Age mystical convergence.
BELL, OPRAH AND CHOPRA AND THE SEDUCTION OF SPIRIT: THREE NEW AGE EVENTS
Why are so many Christians and churches taking part in Eastern meditative practices like transcendental meditation, Yoga and other mystical shenanigans?
Starting Friday there are three globally significant New Age events in with one common denominator: Deepak Chopra…
More here:
http://standupforthetruth.com/2014/08/bell-oprah-chopra-seduction-spirit-three-new-age-events/
Related:
Rob Bell and Oprah Connect
https://muddystreams.wordpress.com/2013/10/01/rob-bell-and-oprah-connect/
Posted in eastern religion, emerging church, mysticism, new age, Oprah, the world listens, universalism, yoga | Leave a Comment »
BISHOP TONY PALMER, WHO URGED CATHOLICS AND CHARISMATICS TO UNITE, DIES IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH
The last time we heard from Charismatic Bishop Tony Palmer, he was coordinating a meeting between Pope Francis and Palmer’s guru Kenneth Copeland (video below). Today Palmer was killed in a motorcycle crash.
. . .In January, Palmer visited with Pope Francis at the Vatican and used his iPhone to record an impromptu greeting from the Pope to an American Pentecostal conference of Kenneth Copeland Ministries.
Read more here:
Related:
The Great Convergence and the End of the Age
http://standupforthetruth.com/2014/06/great-convergence-end-age
Posted in roads to Rome, Roman Catholicism | Leave a Comment »
From Understand the Times:
Pope Francis continues to establish a bridge of ecumenical unity via connections with Pentecostals and the Charismatic Movement. This unity will eventually lead to what is believed to be an outpouring of the Holy Spirit attributed to “Mary” with “signs and wonders” as the key component.
Read more about Pope Francis and his visit to a Pentecostal church in Italy, here:
Posted in Christianity, compromise of the church, religion, roads to Rome, Roman Catholicism | Leave a Comment »
Is it any surprise to read that the Church of England’s former Archbishop (aka *arch-heretic pagan Druid) of Canterbury, Rowan Williams uses Buddhist prayer techniques?
Rowan Williams: how Buddhism helps me pray
Former Archbishop of Canterbury reveals intense daily meditation ritual influenced by Buddhism and Orthodox mysticism
The former Archbishop of Canterbury Lord Williams has disclosed that he spends up to 40 minutes a day squatting and repeating an Eastern Orthodox prayer while performing breathing exercises as part of a routine influenced by Buddhism.
He also spends time pacing slowly and repeatedly prostrating himself as part of an intense early morning ritual of silent meditation and prayer.
The normally private former Archbishop has given a glimpse of his personal devotions in an article for the New Statesman explaining the power of religious ritual in an increasingly secular world.
Lord Williams has spoken in the past about how in his youth he contemplated becoming a monk as well as joining the Orthodox church. . .
More here:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/religion/10942056/Rowan-Williams-how-Buddhism-helps-me-pray.html
______
*Archbishop – or Arch-heretic?
http://www.thechristianexpositor.org/page118.html
Posted in Buddhism, Christianity, compromise of the church, eastern religion, mysticism, paganism, religion | Leave a Comment »
Pope Francis Meets US Televangelists, and the First-Ever ‘Papal High-Five’ Follows
What does it take to produce the first-ever papal high-five? A meeting with American televangelists, apparently.
The gesture came during a three-hour meeting of Pope Francis and Texas televangelists Kenneth Copeland and James Robison, just weeks after the pontiff met with televangelist Joel Osteen and other religious leaders. At the June 24 meeting, Robison said he was so moved by Pope Francis’ message of the gospel that he asked the translator to ask Francis for a high-five. The pope obliged, raised his arm and the two men smacked hands.
Read more here:
UPDATE:
Pope Francis to visit Pentecostal church in Italy
http://understandthetimes.org/inthenews/796_owr1.shtml
Posted in Christianity, compromise of the church, ecumenism, roads to Rome, Roman Catholicism | Leave a Comment »
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