A biblical evaluation of ten deceptions

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A Biblical Evaluation of Ten Deceptions of the Charismatic Movement Deviations from the Faith Once Delivered to the Saints – Bible Study #58

by Nolan McFadden Α BIBLE TEXT: 2 Timothy 4:1-4 What is the Charismatic Movement? It is a religious movement which spreads the doctrines and experiences of Pentecostalism to all denominations. The Charismatic Movement grew out of the Pentecostal Movement which began in the early twentieth century in the United States. The Charismatic Movement is ecumenical and is accurately identified as New Pentecostalism. Charismatic ministry focuses on religious experiences. Charismatic experiences are most commonly sought in churches and fellowships listed as “Charismatic,” “Pentecostal,” “Full gospel” or “Non-denominational.” Charismatic experiences and views have spread to all denominations. This movement has even impacted the thinking of many considering themselves to be biblical Christians.

Presently, it is possible to be a member in most denominations, including the Roman Catholic denomination, and be a Charismatic. Within the Roman Catholic church, there are millions of Roman Catholic Charismatics. Tragically, most people embracing Charismatic beliefs and practices do not recognize the spiritual perils and counterfeit teachings found within the modern Charismatic Movement.

Therefore, using the Holy Bible as the basis of our evaluation, let’s evaluate ten common deceptions found in the contemporary Charismatic Movement.

I. Charismatics believe in open revelation.

A. Those who believe in open revelation accept sources outside of the Bible as divinely authoritative. Charismatics add new revelations to “the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 3). How? Tongues, visions, dreams, prophecies, words of knowledge or words of wisdom which are contrary to the Scriptures are accepted as new messages from God to believers.

B. Why is this dangerous?

1. There is no legitimate need to add new revelations to “the faith” which was only once delivered to the saints in the first century as revealed in the New Testament Scriptures (Jude 3).

2. Nowhere in the Holy Bible are Christians instructed to seek new revelations from God. 3. God has revealed himself and His will fully to mankind by means of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Scriptures (Matthew 4:4, John 14:9; 17:6-8,17, Colossians 2:8-10, 2 Timothy 3:15-17, Hebrews 1:1-3, 2 Peter 1:1921). JESUS CHRIST HIMSELF IS THE ULTIMATE REVELATION OF GOD TO

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MANKIND (John 14:9, Hebrews 1:3). THERE IS NO BETTER REVELATION OF GOD THAN OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST HIMSELF. The Holy Bible is completed revelation given by the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 3:15-17, Hebrews 1:1-2, 2 Peter 1:19-21, Jude 3). Consequently, as was the practice of early Christians, we are to use the Scriptures to “test” other revelations to determine if they are from God or not from God (Acts 17:11, 1 John 4:1-6).

4. The Holy Spirit cannot contradict Himself. He gave us the Scriptures of truth (Acts 1:16, 2 Peter 1:21). Our LORD JESUS CHRIST declared that God’s Word is “truth” (John 17:17). The Holy Bible is God’s Word given to mankind (Deuteronomy 4:1-10, John 8:47; 10:35; 12:48-50; 17:8, 2 Timothy 3:15-17). JESUS explained that the Holy Spirit is “the Spirit of truth” who will “guide” us “into all truth” (John 16:13). Subsequently, the true Holy Spirit never contradicts God’s Word – the Holy Bible (John 10:35; 17:6-8). God’s Word – the Holy Bible never contradicts God’s “Spirit of truth” or God’s will (Matthew 4:4). Therefore, we may safely conclude that any customs, practices or religious experiences that are contrary to God’s Word – the Holy Bible cannot possibly be from the Holy Spirit.

5. It was the Holy Spirit who warned about adding to God’s Word (Deuteronomy 4:2, Revelation 22:18-19, Jude 3).

6. The Charismatic Movement is merely a rebirth of the religious movement known as MONTANISM which started in the second century in Phrygia.

Montanus, the leader, along with his two “prophetesses,” Prisca and Maximilla, claimed to be the new mouthpieces of the Holy Spirit (i.e. open revelation).

INTENSE EMOTIONALISM, VISIONS, TONGUES, NEW REVELATIONS WHICH OFTEN CONTRADICTED THE SCRIPTURES AND FALSE PROPHECIES WERE PRACTICES OF THE MONTANISTS. This movement was rejected as heretical by early church leaders.

7. The belief in open revelation from God is also taught in Roman Catholicism, Mormonism, Hinduism, Theosophy and many other false religions. The problem with this false theology is that under the guise of “open revelation” experiences and teachings which are not truly from the LORD are added and soon regarded as divinely authoritative alongside the Scriptures. This false formula is: the Bible + man’s teachings/revelations/experiences = God’s Word 8. There are three possible sources for religious experiences. They are: 1) The experience is truly from God. If this is the case, the experience will be confirmed in the Scriptures – the Holy Bible. 2) The experience is from Satan.

The purpose of the Devil sending a religious experience is to deceive and/or to counterfeit that which is from God. 3) The experience is “worked up” by means of human emotions. It is possible to alter one’s state of consciousness by means of practicing emotionalism.

9. There are times when God chooses to give a believer personal revelation from the Holy Spirit for specific guidance in his or her life such as Paul’s Macedonian vision (Acts 16:6-10). In these instances, it is still necessary to confirm the vision by means of the Scriptures of truth. Through this guidance of

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the Holy Spirit, Paul recognized that it was God’s timing “to preach the gospel” in Macedonia (Acts 16:10). As revealed in the teachings of JESUS, Paul already knew that it was Christ’s command that the gospel be preached in all nations (Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 16:15, Luke 24:46-48). The purpose of the vision was to confirm God’s specific timing for gospel proclamation in Macedonia.

10. While wholeheartedly affirming “sound doctrine,” let us not be found guilty of opposing any authentic work of the Holy Spirit in the latter days. The apostle Paul instructed Christians not to despise prophecies but, rather, we are to “prove” (test) them (1 Thessalonians 5:20-21). It should be noted that during the time just prior to the second coming of our LORD JESUS, God will send unusual manifestations of His Spirit and signs “in the heavens and in the earth” in order to confirm that Christ´s coming is near. This is clearly indicated in Bible prophecies. For example, we find in Joel 2:28-32, “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. And the sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and terrible day of the LORD come. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall call.” Yet, even these experiences in “the time of the end” (Daniel 12:9) must be tested and confirmed in the Holy Scriptures to determine if they are truly from the LORD (JEHOVAH) or not from the LORD (Deuteronomy 18:9-22, 1 John 4:1-6).

C. What are we to live by according to Matthew 4:4? _______________________ ______________________________________________________________________ D. According to John 10:35, “the word of God” is identified as “the S_________________” that “cannot be broken;” E. Which two actions does the apostle John warn us about in Revelation 22:1819? __________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ F. As revealed in Hebrews 1:1-2, how has God chosen to speak to Christians in these last days? _______________________________________________________ G. In 2 Peter 1:19 the apostle Peter declared that believers have “a more sure word of prophecy.” This “more sure word of prophecy” is identified in I Peter 1:20 as “…prophecy of the s_________________...”

II. Charismatics teach a distorted doctrine of the Holy Spirit.

A. Charismatics teach that Christians must seek a second work of grace after salvation which they refer to as “baptism in the Holy Spirit.” Charismatics teach that the evidence of this “baptism in the Holy Spirit” is speaking in tongues.

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B. Whereas, the Bible teaches that all believers in Christ are baptized by the Holy Spirit into the body of Christ when they are saved (1 Corinthians 12:13).

Moreover, we find in the Scriptures that all believers are “sealed” with the Holy Spirit at the very moment in which they trust in Jesus Christ for salvation (Ephesians 1:13-14; 4:30). Thus, all true believers in Christ receive the Holy Spirit and are baptized by the Holy Spirit into the body of Christ at the time they are saved. This is the only genuine “baptism of the Holy Spirit” found in the New Testament Scriptures. See Matthew 3:11, Mark 1:8, Luke 3:16, Acts 1:4-5; 11:16-17, Romans 6:3-4, 1 Corinthians 12:13, Galatians 3:27 and Colossians 2:12. Baptism of the Holy Spirit is distinguished in the Scriptures from Christ’s command to baptize (Matthew 28:19), John’s baptism of repentance (Acts 19:4), a baptism of physical death (Mark 10:3839) and the figurative usage of “baptized” in 1 Corinthians 10:2.

C. Baptism with the Holy Spirit is different than being filled with the Holy Spirit in the New Testament. Christians are commanded to “be filled with the Spirit” in Ephesians 5:18. In the Greek New Testament the words “be filled” in verse 18 are translated from πληρουσθε. The Greek word here is in the present passive. This indicates a continuing action. Consequently, the believer is to continue being filled with the Holy Spirit. It is not intended to be merely a one time event. Being filled with the Holy Spirit is a way of life. It is dependent on how much we yield ourselves to God (Romans 6:11-13; 8:13).

In addition, being filled with the Holy Spirit does not mean that we will speak in tongues. There are many examples in the Bible where believers were filled with the Holy Spirit but did not speak in tongues. See Acts 4:8,31; 6:3-5; 7:55; 9:17-18; 11:23-24; 13:8-11,48-52.

D. What happened when Christians were filled with the Holy Spirit in Acts 4:31? _________________________________________________________________ E. According to Ephesians 5:19-21, what is associated with being filled with the Holy Spirit? _______________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ III. In practice, the test of truth for Charismatics is religious experiences in place of God’s Word – the Holy Bible.

A. THE EMPHASIS IN CHARISMATIC CHURCHES IS HAVING RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCES. This becomes apparent when visiting Charismatics. The religious questions Charismatics most frequently ask me are: 1) Does your church practice the gifts? 2) Have you received the baptism of the spirit?

Notice the question is not, Are you saved? It is not, “Are you living in obedience to the Word of God? Why? IN PRACTICE, TONGUES, PHYSICAL HEALINGS, AND OTHER RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCES ARE THE TEST OF SPIRITUALITY, TRUTH AND MINISTRY FOR CHARISMATICS. A danger with this mindset is that those involved in the false teachings and experiences of

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occultism and eastern religion also regard religious experiences as the test of truth and spirituality.

Speaking in tongues is often regarded as an evidence of salvation in Charismatic assemblies. In fact, in many Charismatic and Pentecostal churches you cannot teach or serve in leadership in the church without having had “the baptism” evidenced by speaking in tongues.

JESUS did not say, “If ye love me, practice the gifts.” Our SAVIOR proclaimed, “If ye love me, keep my _______________________. (John 14:15) THE TRUE TEST OF OUR LOVE FOR JESUS CHRIST IS NOT HOW SPECTACULAR ARE OUR EXPERIENCES. IT IS OUR OBEDIENCE TO GOD’S WORD – THE SCRIPTURES. CHARISMATICS WANT EXPERIENCES. GOD WANTS OBEDIENCE OF HIS WORD (JOHN 14:15-24).

CHARISMATICS APPEAL TO THEIR RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCES TO VALIDATE THEIR FAITH. AS BIBLICAL CHRISTIANS, WE APPEAL TO GOD’S WORD – THE SCRIPTURES TO VALIDATE OUR FAITH (MATTHEW 4:4, JOHN 14:15-23; 17:6-8, 2 TIMOTHY 4:2-4; 3:15-18).

What source did JESUS quote to refute Satan in Matthew 4:4-10? _________________________________________________________________ JESUS taught that the Holy Spirit will guide believers “into all truth” (John 16:13) What did JESUS declare to be “truth” as recorded in John 17:17? _________________________________________________________________

IV. Charismatics teach that physical healing is always God’s will.

A. In the Bible we discover that God is able to give physical healing in answer to prayers. Our LORD often healed the sick during His first century ministry on earth. Likewise, in our day the LORD frequently chooses to heal people in answer to prayers in JESUS name (Mark 1:34, Luke 4:39-41, James 4:15-16).

However, physical healing is not always God’s will (Galatians 4:13-15, 1 Timothy 5:23, 2 Timothy 4:20). According to the Scriptures of truth, God often uses physical afflictions for His glory or for chastening of believers.

See Psalm 107:17; 119:71-75, Job 23:10, 1 Corinthians 11:29-31, 2 Corinthians 12:7-12, Galatians 4:13-15 and Hebrews 12:3-11. TO TEACH THAT PHYSICAL HEALING IS ALWAYS GOD’S WILL IS CLEARLY CONTRARY TO GOD’S WORD – THE HOLY BIBLE. B. Inevitably, Charismatics usually twist Isaiah 53:5 out of its context in order to teach that physical healing for all is provided in Christ’s atonement.

However, the context of Isaiah chapter 53 refers to spiritual healing not to physical healing (Isaiah 1:1-18; 53:6-12). In addition, the apostle Peter himself provided a clear interpretation of the Isaiah 53:5 text in 1 Peter 2:2425. Notice the words found immediately after “by whose stripes ye were healed” in 1 Peter 2:24-25. The apostle Peter clearly interpreted these words as referring to spiritual reconciliation with God not physical healing. Peter

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proclaimed, “For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.”

According to 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, the apostle Paul had a physical infirmity which he had asked God to remove three times. Notice the words “in the flesh” and “my infirmities” as recorded in verses seven and nine. It is apparent that Paul was referring to his own physical infirmities. Instead of choosing to heal Paul, our LORD said, “My g_____________ is s__________________ for thee: for my s___________________ is made perfect in w____________________.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) Moreover, this was not an issue of Paul lacking faith for God to heal him. The apostle Paul was certainly a man with great faith. God chose not to heal Paul according to His own purpose. Thus, according to His will, our LORD may choose to heal or not to heal. It is ultimately God’s decision to heal or not to heal.

In what part of the apostle Paul’s body was the physical affliction located as indicated in Galatians 4:15? _________________________________________ What physical problem did Timothy often have according to 1 Timothy 5:23? _________________________________________________________________ Did the apostle Paul rebuke Timothy for his lack of faith that God would heal him in 1 Timothy 5:23? YES / NO

V. Charismatics practice false spiritual gifts.

A. Often charismatics ask, “Do you believe in the gifts?” What is my response?

We believe in the spiritual gifts as defined in the New Testament Scriptures.

We also believe in the biblical purposes of the spiritual gifts as revealed in the Scriptures. But we do not believe in the counterfeit gifts practiced by Charismatics today. Why? IF A SPIRITUAL GIFT IS DEFINED DIFFERENTLY AND USED DIFFERENTLY THAN IT WAS IN THE NEW TESTAMENT SCRIPTURES, IT IS A COUNTERFEIT SPIRITUAL GIFT. CHARISMATICS DEFINE AND USE THE GIFTS DIFFERENTLY THAN THAT WHICH WE FIND IN THE NEW TESTAMENT. B. What is the spiritual gift of tongues? Definition: The supernatural act of God whereby the works of God are communicated in a foreign language previously unknown to the speaker. The message is understood by the listener in his or her “own language.” See Acts 2:1-11. Notice the words “…began to speak with other tongues [languages]…” (Acts 2:4) and “…because that every man heard them speak in his own language.” (Acts 2:6) Consequently, speaking in “tongues” is not mere emotional babbling.

C. Charismatics claim to speak in an “unknown heavenly language.” However, there is no mention of an “unknown heavenly language” in the Bible. There are two words found in the Greek New Testament from which the word tongues (or tongue) is translated. They are γλοσσα and διαλεκτος. The word διαλεκτος refers to languages which are known and spoken. The other word γλοσσα is used in two ways:

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1) The tongue as an organ of speech as in Mark 7:33, Acts 2:3, Romans 3:13; 14:11, 1 Corinthians 14:9, James 1:26 and Revelation 16:10.

2) A language that is known and spoken as in Acts 2:4; 10:46; 19:6, 1 Corinthians 12:10,28; 13:1,8; 14:5-6,18-23,39 and Revelation 7:9.

THEREFORE, EVERY TONGUE SPOKEN IN THE NEW TESTAMENT WAS A LANGUAGE WHICH WAS BOTH KNOWN AND SPOKEN. UNLIKE THE TONGUES COMMONLY PRACTICED IN THE CHARISMATIC MOVEMENT, THE AUTHENTIC, NEW TESTAMENT GIFT OF TONGUES WAS NOT AN EMOTIONAL BABBLING OR AN UNKNOWN “HEAVENLY LANGUAGE.” NOTICE THAT THERE IS A HUGE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE GENUINE, NEW TESTAMENT SPIRITUAL GIFT OF TONGUES AND THE COUNTERFEIT MODEL OF TONGUES COMMONLY PRACTICED IN PENTECOSTAL AND CHARISMATIC MEETINGS. D. Charismatics twist 1 Corinthians 13:1 out of its context in order to support their false doctrine of tongues in an “unknown heavenly language.”

However, notice that when the apostle Paul spoke about the tongues “of angels,” he was using the phrase as a hyperbole. This fact is also apparent in 1 Corinthians 13:2-3. Paul did not have “all knowledge.” Likewise, nowhere in the New Testament do we read that Paul literally gave his “body to be burned.” Also, at no time have we observed a person without love changing into a literal “sounding brass” or “tinkling cymbal.” Why? Paul is speaking figuratively not literally. Consequently, contrary to the Charismatic interpretation of I Corinthians 13:1, Paul was not defining or describing in a literal manner the spiritual gift of tongues.

E. Moreover, even a literal interpretation of 1 Corinthians 13:1 does not support speaking in tongues in an “unknown heavenly language.” How do we know this for certain? When the LORD’s angels appeared to people in the biblical accounts, what language did they speak? They spoke in the language of the person to whom they were speaking. Examples include Hagar in Genesis 16:9; Abram in Genesis 22:11; Balaam in Numbers 22:32 and the shepherds in Luke 2:11.

F. In like manner, Romans 8:26 is twisted out of its context by Charismatics to support “praying in a heavenly language.” There are four major problems with forcing tongues on Romans 8:26. They are: 1) The context is not referring to the gift of tongues.

2) It is the Holy Spirit, not the person, who is making intercession for us “with groanings which cannot be uttered.”

3) Notice the verse says “groanings which cannot be uttered.” Whereas, Pentecostals and Charismatics usually utter words and sounds when they pray in tongues.

4) Speaking in tongues contrary to the Bible is not according to the will of God (1 Corinthians 14:33,37). The Holy Spirit cannot possibly be the

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source of an action that contradicts the biblical purpose of the intercession – God’s will. See Romans 8:27.

G. What were the three biblical purposes of the New Testament gift of tongues?

1) It was a sign to unbelievers (a sign to unbelieving Jews specifically – Acts 2:4-12). See 1 Corinthians 14:21-22. The original, primary purpose of the gift of tongues was for the benefit of unbelievers not for the benefit of believers. We observe that each time the biblical gift of tongues occurred in the New Testament, it was always with one or more Jews present as a sign to the Jews. Note Acts 2:4-5; 10:45-48; 15:7-8; 19:1-8. Also, it is worth noting that in the Scriptures signs were always given by the LORD to the nation of Israel.

2) The biblical gift of tongues was used to authenticate the message of the apostles (Mark 16:20, Acts 2:33, 2 Corinthians 2:12, Hebrews 2:3-4).

3) It was for personal edification – 1 Corinthians 14:4.

H. How can we be certain that the tongues most commonly practiced by Pentecostals and Charismatics is not the genuine New Testament spiritual gift of tongues?

1) The gift of tongues commonly practiced by those in the Charismatic Movement is usually in what they refer to as an “unknown heavenly language.” In other words, it is usually spoken as an emotional babbling. It is not spoken or heard in a known, foreign language which can be understood by those who regularly speak it. Whereas, the New Testament gift of tongues involved known, foreign languages which could be clearly understood (Acts 2:4-11).

2) Charismatic tongues are often used for personal use and new messages from God. Whereas, the three primary purposes of the New Testament gift of tongues were: 1) A sign to unbelievers (Jews specifically – 1 Corinthians 14:21-22) 2) To authenticate the message of the apostles (Hebrews 2:3-4) 3) Personal edification (1 Corinthians 14:4) 3) Charismatics urge others to seek the gift of tongues as an evidence of “baptism in the Holy Spirit.” Whereas, nowhere in the Bible are Christians instructed to seek the gift of tongues as an evidence of “baptism in the Holy Spirit.”

4) Charismatic tongues is often practiced without genuine interpreters.

Whereas, those who practiced the authentic, biblical gift of tongues in the New Testament were instructed to remain silent unless an interpreter was present (1 Corinthians 14:28).

5) Charismatic tongues are often practiced by women in Charismatic church services. Whereas, in the New Testament, women were forbidden to publicly speak in tongues in the churches (1 Corinthians 14:34-35).

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6) Charismatic tongues are frequently practiced in meetings promoting ecumenical fellowship with false teachers and false churches. This is disobedience to God’s Word (2 Corinthians 6:14-18, Ephesians 5:11, 2 John 9-11). Whereas, the biblical gift of tongues confirmed biblical truth, sound doctrine and obedience to God’s Word regarding separation from false teachers and false teachings.

7) Charismatic practice of tongues has all the characteristics of the same religious experience practiced in occultism and in pagan, tribal religions. Whereas, the authentic, New Testament gift of tongues was truly from the Holy Spirit. It was very different than the Devil’s “tongues” practiced by unsaved pagans in idolatrous rituals which included an altered state of consciousness and emotional babbling.

I. What was the primary purpose of the gift of tongues as revealed in 1 Corinthians 14:22? _______________________________________________ J. With what must believers not be “carried about” according to Ephesians 4:14? ____________________________________________________________ VI. Charismatics practice false signs and wonders.

A. Charismatic church services often include experiences known as being “slain in the spirit” and/or “coming under the power.” Charismatic leaders “lay hands” on people to induce these experiences. Participants become unconscious or semi-unconscious. Why is this dangerous? NOWHERE IN THE BIBLE ARE CHRISTIANS INSTRUCED TO SEEK ALTERED STATES OF CONSCIOUSNESS IN WORSHIP OF JESUS CHRIST. In fact, this religious experience is the exact opposite of self-control which is the fruit of the indwelling Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:23, 2 Peter 1:6).

B. Altered states of consciousness in religious experiences are typical in eastern religions and western occultism. These experiences are not from the Holy Spirit. See Deuteronomy 18:9-14, 2 Corinthians 11:3-4, Colossians 2:810, Ephesians 4:14 and 1 John 4:1-6. Rather, they are energized by fallen angels (1 Corinthians 10:14-21).

C. Charismatic healing experiences are often identical to occult, New Age healing experiences. Laying on of hands, utterances and angelic visions are also found in occult healing experiences (2 Corinthians 11:14). Often Charismatics share how their healing experiences included seeing a very beautiful, bright angel or light. But what do the Scriptures say about an “angel of light” in 2 Corinthians 11:14? ________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ We must not forget that Satan also has power to heal and create great signs and wonders. See Matthew 24:24, Mark 13:22, 2 Thessalonians 2:9 and Revelation 13:3,12-14. The Devil often counterfeits the works of our LORD.

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D. In the Charismatic Movement John 18:6 is interpreted as referring to being “slain in the spirit.” There are at least three errors with their misinterpretation. They are: 1) In the text “they” were not believers.

2) “They” were not seeking to be “baptized in the Holy Spirit” or any other religious experience.

3) There is no evidence that they were made unconscious by the event. See John 18:7 found in the context. Thus, John 18:6 does not refer to the modern Charismatic experience of being “slain in the spirit.”

E. According to 2 Thessalonians 2:9, what will accompany the reign of the Antichrist? _______________________________________________________ F. In Matthew 24:24 our LORD JESUS warned that before His second coming there will be false christs and false prophets who will show, “great s___________ and w_________________; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”

VII. Charismatics often promote the doctrine of ecumenism.

A. Ecumenism is a religious view which seeks to unite all churches, denominations and religions in fellowship, worship and ministry. The word “fellowship” comes from two words, fellow and ship. It indicates that we are fellows or friends in the same ship going the same direction. Should genuine Christians be in the ecumenical ship? Why is the Ecumenical Movement wrong?

1) In the New Testament, Christians are commanded to separate from false teachers and false doctrines (Romans 16:17-18, 2 Corinthians 6:14-18, Ephesians 5:11, 2 John 9-11). Ecumenism blends false doctrine with sound doctrine; true churches with false churches; biblical teachers with false teachers; and true believers with false believers. This is in clear violation of the Scriptures. Read 2 Corinthians 6:14-18.

2) Prophecies in the Bible warn us that there will be a time of apostasy and the formation of a one world, false church just before the rise of the antichrist and his global government system (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, 1 Timothy 4:1-4, 2 Timothy 4:2-4, 2 Peter 2:1-2, Revelation 13:7; 17:118,24).

3) A union or unity with falsehood is always a false unity (Proverbs 12:5, Amos 3:3, 1 Corinthians 6:15, 2 Corinthians 6:15, 2 John 10-11). In our day, many main-line denominations are saturated with false teachers, false teachings and false philosophies. False teachings such as sacramental salvation, baptismal regeneration, liberation theology, social gospel, naturalistic and theistic evolution, humanistic psychology, selfism, antinomianism, unitarianism, universalism, occult healings and experiences, unbiblical tongues, false prophecies, rationalism and worldliness are common. Ecumenical unity is a false unity which seeks to

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unite true Christians in fellowship with false teachers, false teachings and false churches. It is in clear disobedience to the Scriptures even under the guise of evangelism, missions or social action (Matthew 24:4, 2 Corinthians 6:14-18, Ephesians 5:11).

WHEREAS, TRUE BIBLICAL UNITY IS CENTERED IN JESUS CHRIST AND OBEDIENCE OF HIS WORD – THE SCRIPTURES (JOHN 8:31-32,47; 10:35; 14:15-23; 17:6-8,17, EPHESIANS 4:13-21, COLOSSIANS 1:23).

For Charismatics, religious experiences rather than obedience to the Holy Bible, is the test of fellowship. An alleged miracle, a healing or speaking in tongues is often used by the Charismatics as the basis to validate a person’s profession of faith.

To be a Charismatic, it is not necessary to be truly saved, repent from sins, forsake false beliefs or leave a false church. Why? The Charismatic Movement is very ecumenical. It is possible to be a member of the majority of denominations, including the Roman Catholic denomination, and be a Charismatic. Charismatic Catholics often share that their “baptism in the Holy Spirit” experience gives them a greater love and appreciation for the mass (an ancient, pagan ritual assimilated from the pagan Roman Mysteries). This is certainly not the spiritual baptism found in the Bible (1 Corinthians 12:13, 2 Corinthians 6:15-16).

The Charismatic Movement is both uniting false churches with its religious experiences and dividing gospel preaching churches with its errors (Romans 16:17-18). Charismatics claim that their movement is a “Christian unity movement of the Holy Spirit.” Tragically, it is not biblical unity nor is it from the Holy Spirit. The inclusion of the term “Holy” in the name Holy Spirit implies that He (the Holy Spirit of the Bible) is separate from sin. Falsehood is sin (John 8:43-44, Ephesians 4:25, Colossians 3:9). SUBSEQUENTLY, A UNITY WITH FALSEHOOD IS A FALSE UNITY. THEREFORE, THE TRUE UNITY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT DOES NOT INCLUDE THE FALSE DOCTRINES AND FALSE RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCES OF THE CHARISMATIC MOVEMENT. Many leaders operate as if it is acceptable to God for Christians to tolerate or ignore false teachings and false religious experiences that are contrary to the Scriptures for the sake of unity, friendship, evangelism, family or social causes. The result of this compromise with falsehood and the world is a growing religious deception that is uniting Charismatics, Catholics, Protestants, Baptists, Evangelicals, New Evangelicals and other groups in an apostate, ecumenical fellowship. Aided by a powerful “spirit of error,” Charismatic experiences have spread to all denominations and are uniting millions of deceived people. The protection of sound Bible doctrine is broken down as similar, false religious experiences create the basis of apostate, ecumenical fellowship and ministry. Tragically, the Devil is laughing as millions of deceived souls are participating in a religious

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movement that is destined to help form “the great whore,” world-wide, unified, false church (the Religious Babylon) of Revelation chapter 17.

With what must we not have fellowship according to Ephesians 5:11? _________________________________________________________________ In Galatians 5:9 the apostle Paul warned against the spread of false teachings among believers. He cautioned, “A l____________ leaven leavens the w_____________ lump.” In context, leaven is used in this verse in referring to false doctrine. The application of this verse is also essential for believers in the last days. In summary it is: BEWARE OF FALSE TEACHERS, FALSE TEACHINGS AND FALSE RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCES. What are Christians commanded to do in 1 John 4:1? Explain. ____________ _________________________________________________________________ According to 1 John 4:1, why is this command so important? _____________ _________________________________________________________________

VIII. Charismatics use religious rock music in worship.

A. What is religious rock music? It is music with a hard or soft rock music background beat attached to a Christian message. Whether it is labeled “contemporary Christian music” or “heavy metal Christian,” it is music that is a crossover, blend or synthesis of a pagan rock music beat with a Christian message. It is an unholy synthesis.

B. Charismatics fail to understand in their spirits that fusing the Christian message with pagan music and pagan culture creates Christo-pagan music.

As this music is used in worship services, Christo-pagan worship is created.

Therefore, it is no surprise that many in the Roman Catholic faith and the new age movement have been so open to charismatic experiences and practices. It is carried by a “spirit of error.”

C. What are we to do with the pagan, false ways of the world according to Psalm 119:104 and Jeremiah 10:2? ___________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ D. Which three kinds of songs are recommended for Christian worship in Ephesians 5:19? 1) p______________ 2) h_______________ 4) s_________________ ______________ IX. Charismatic churches often have women pastors.

A. What is wrong with having a female preacher in the church? Thankfully, there are many godly, Christian women who are well qualified to teach and serve in “the work of the ministry.” Two of the vital ministries to which God often calls women to serve in the church are: 1) To teach children and 2) To teach ladies. We recognize that both of these ministries are biblical and very important in the church (Titus 2:3-5, 2 Timothy 1:5; 3:15). Gifted Christian ladies who are empowered by the Holy Spirit are having a great impact for

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Christ in making biblical disciples as they serve and glorify our LORD JESUS in these church ministries. However, there are some ministries in the church that God has not designed women to fulfill. In His sovereign plan, He calls faithful men to accomplish these other ministries. If a Christian lady seeks to labor in these other ministries, she will find herself out of God’s will. For example, we find in the Scriptures that when a Christian lady teaches men and young men from the Holy Bible, she is in clear disobedience to at least four biblical teachings. They are: 1) When a woman teaches a man from the Bible, she is disobeying apostolic instruction set forth in 1 Timothy 2:12.

2) When a woman is the pastor of the church, it perverts the biblical role of the woman in the family structure. God created men to be the spiritual leaders in their homes. When a woman is the spiritual leader in the church, she establishes the example for the women to be the spiritual leaders. This perverts God’s plan for the family and the church (Ephesians 5:22-25).

3) When a woman is not under God-ordained authority, she opens herself up to the attacks of fallen angels (Genesis 3:13-16, 1 Corinthians 11:10).

4) One of the specific qualifications of a pastor found in 1 Timothy 3:1-5 is that “he” be “a man.” Also, “he” must be “the husband of one wife.” The Scriptures are clear here that our LORD calls faithful men to be pastors/bishops.

B. The apostle Paul instructed, “But I suffer not a woman to _______________, nor to usurp ______________________ over the _____________, but to be in __________________________.” 1 Timothy 2:12 X. The Charismatic experience is an emotional roller coaster.

A. All believers in Christ need the ministry and Christian fellowship of a biblical, local church (Acts 2:41-42, Hebrews 10:25). Finding the right church family to be a part of will result in great blessings for you and your loved ones.

However, choose carefully which church you will attend. Make certain beforehand that it is a Christ-centered, Bible-based church which affirms sound doctrine. Unfortunately, there are many believers who are not well grounded in the Scriptures of truth and lack biblical discernment. Many have been misled by well-meaning friends, family members or co-workers to attend churches that practice emotionalism and Charismatic experiences.

B. Tragically, emotionalism creates an emotional addiction that is similar to being addicted to drugs. During the Charismatic service, the person experiences an emotional high. Later, the person experiences emotional fatigue or let down. Just like a drug addict, they must return to the next service for another high. In the process, two things happen: 1) Charismatics become more vulnerable to emotional manipulation.

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2) They learn to depend on their emotions in place of depending on JESUS CHRIST and His Word – the Holy Bible for spiritual food.

C. As Christians, we must not allow how we feel to control our lives. We must not permit ourselves to become captives to emotionalism and false religious experiences. To do so is to enter spiritual bondage. But where the true Spirit of the LORD dwells, there is spiritual liberty (Galatians 5:1-26).

D. What are the characteristics of a false teacher as presented by the apostle Peter in 2 Peter 2:14-15? List them. ___________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ In conclusion: We believe that our LORD JESUS loves those who are involved in the Charismatic Movement (John 3:16). As biblical Christians, we are to follow our LORD’s example (John 13:35). CHRISTIAN LOVE SPEAKS TRUTH (EPHESIANS 4:14-15, 3 JOHN 1-4). JESUS clearly warned His disciples regarding the incredible conditions and deceptions that will emerge on our planet during the time “near” His second coming (Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21). In Matthew 24:4 JESUS commanded His true followers, “Take heed that no man deceive you.” Likewise, the apostle Paul warned Christians, “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.” (2 Timothy 3:13) Tragically, millions of people have been deceived by one or more of these ten deceptions found in the contemporary Charismatic Movement. Even many sincere Christians have been misled into this religious movement. Let us pray that the light of the biblical truth set forth in this Bible study may help set many “free” from the deceptions of this unbiblical religious movement.

In the first century our LORD JESUS promised his followers, “…If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:31-32) Notice that JESUS did not say “If ye continue in charismatic teachings and experiences…ye shall know the truth…”

Rather, CHRIST taught that it is “my word” in which we must continue. “The words” of JESUS CHRIST were taught to his first century disciples during his time of ministry with them. Shortly thereafter, these words and teachings were recorded in the New Testament Scriptures (Luke 1:1-4, John 17:6-8; 10:35).

JESUS Himself declared that God’s word “is truth.” (John 17:17) Therefore, if we continue to believe and obey the teachings of JESUS as recorded in the New Testament Scriptures, we will demonstrate that we are truly the disciples of JESUS CHRIST. In addition, by means of these Scriptures of truth we will “know the truth” and the truth will make us “free.”

May your heart and mind be enlightened by the Spirit of truth in the Scriptures of truth (Psalm 119:130-173, John 16:13).

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WHICH PATH WILL YOU CHOOSE? KING DAVID PROCLAIMED, “I HAVE CHOSEN THE WAY OF TRUTH:…”

(PSALM 119:30) After completing this Bible study, it is my decision to reject participation in the Charismatic Movement. YES / NO What is your decision for CHRIST JESUS? Use a pen or pencil to check one of the two circles.

O

I choose to reject the false beliefs and false experiences of the Charismatic Movement. I will attend a biblical church that is not charismatic.

O

I choose to continue in the false experiences and the false beliefs of the Charismatic Movement.

Ω

© 1997, 1998, revised 2014 Nolan McFadden Copies are permitted.

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Quiz for: A Biblical Evaluation of Ten Deceptions of the Charismatic Movement Please circle either true or false for each of the following statements: 1. Nowhere in the Holy Bible are Christians instructed to seek new revelations from God or the gift of tongues. TRUE / FALSE 2. Charismatics teach that Christians must seek a second work of grace after salvation called “baptism in the Holy Spirit.” TRUE / FALSE 3. The Bible teaches that all true believers are baptized once by the Holy Spirit into the Body of Christ at the time they are saved. TRUE / FALSE 4. In practice, the test of truth for Charismatics is religious experiences in place of the Word of God – the Bible. TRUE / FALSE 5. Most Pentecostals and Charismatics believe that physical healing is always God’s will. TRUE / FALSE 6. According to the Scriptures, physical healing is not always God’s will.

TRUE / FALSE 7. If a spiritual gift is defined differently and used differently than it was in the New Testament, it is a counterfeit spiritual gift. TRUE / FALSE 8. In the New Testament the three biblical purposes of the spiritual gift of tongues were: 1) A sign to unbelievers (to unbelieving Jews specifically) 2) To authenticate the message of the apostles 3) Personal edification TRUE / FALSE 9. Christians are not commanded in the New Testament to separate from false teachers and false doctrines. TRUE / FALSE 10. According to the Bible, the Devil also has the power to heal.

TRUE / FALSE 11. JESUS taught that before His second coming there will be false prophets who will show “great signs and wonders.” TRUE / FALSE 12. A union or a unity with falsehood is always a false unity. TRUE / FALSE After you have completed this quiz, please send or give it to your instructor for grading. Your graded quiz and the next Bible study will be given to you by your instructor. Please be sure to write your name, mailing address and telephone number in the space below. Also, if you have an email address, please include it with the data below.

NAME: __________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ TELEPHONE NUMBER: ____________________________________________ EMAIL ADDRESS: ________________________________________________ © 1997, 1998, revised 2014 Nolan McFadden Copies are permitted.