Charismatic Captivation exposes the widespread problem of authoritarian abuse in some Neo-Pentecostal church-groups, and explains how it became infused into the very fabric, foundation, and functions of the Neo-Pentecostal church after being introduced through a Charismatic campaign known as the Discipleship/Shepherding Movement (1970-77). References on this site to "Discipleship" or "Shepherding" (and variations) doctrines, teachings, proponents, participants, and so forth, allude to the pertinences of that movement.
This book contains "the REAL truth" from GOD about hyper-authoritarianism in many popular spiritual streams, high-profile churches, and ministries, whose leaders, however, do not want you to know! The message it contains has been denigrated and denounced by many (apparently guilty) church leaders. Do not read this book if you are not ready to know the REAL Truth, and do not follow its advice if you are not ready to be ostracized by streams, networks, churches, and leaders who espouse the false doctrines and employ the unbiblical control mechanisms it exposes!
Important Word I want to state categorically that I myself am a Charismatic believer and minister, in the sense that I wholly believe in, teach, and personally operate in the "charismata," i.e., the Manifestation Gifts of the Spirit (1 Cor. 12). Thus, by no means am I engaging in any form or degree of Charismatic-bashing in the book, Charismatic Captivation, here on this blog, or in any of my writings. Nor am I denigrating in any way the Charismatic experience or Biblical teachings restored during the Charismatic Movement. Rather, I am proffering what I am fully convinced is valid and very much needed, God-inspired reproof and correction of patently unscriptural doctrines and practices being espoused and implemented within much of the Pentecostal and Neo-Pentecostal Church. That in no way means I am anti-Charismatic or anti-Pentecostal, as some spiritually immature Charismatics are wont to allege at the mere hint of criticism of anything relevant to the Charismatic realm. I am neither anti-Charismatic nor anti-Pentecostal, as are some who write regarding this topic, but rather PRO both. My analysis, conclusions, and commentary here and in all my writings and speaking is not sheer criticism for the sake of being critical or for the purpose of pillorying the Charismatic-Pentecostal church, but rather reproof for its perfection. I am also quite aware, as some readers have written to tell me over the years, these doctrines and practices are being espoused and employed in other ecclesiastical segments and streams as well. However, it is of the Neo-Pentecostal branch of the Church I am a part, and as such, have a particular right, yea, even duty, to confront that branch with much needed Biblical reproof. It is my deepest desire and heartfelt prayer that all those who name themselves among the Brotherhood of Christ will give heed to the reproof and admonitions presented in the book and on this blog, and take the actions necessary to liberate the Children of God from the oppressive captivation and domination of men that is transpiring in some church cultures, for all believers are called to be SONS of God, not SLAVES of men (1 Cor. 7:23). Remember the call of Christ Himself, "If therefore the Son shall make you FREE, you shall be FREE indeed!" (Jn. 8:36); as well as Paul's echo of Christ's call, "It was for FREEDOM that Christ set us FREE; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of SLAVERY" (Gal. 5:1).
The following are just a few of the hundreds of comments received from appreciative readers of Charismatic Captivation.
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In my more than 50 years of ministry, I have never seen such a unique and comprehensive treatment of this matter of legitimate and illegitimate authority which has been so problematic to the Church throughout its history! I highly recommend this book to all believers, including ministers. Also we want you to know our intercessory prayer group had special prayer for you and this book that both would be used mightily around the world. We are placing a bulk-order for the members of our Bible study group as well, as I am teaching from the book in that group." [Rev. J.W.; Washington]..............................
"I am originally from India but currently living in Pittsburgh, PA. Your book Charismatic Captivation is the most important book (next to the Bible) that a modern day Christian must read. I am so sad that ministers like you are not on popular Christian TV channels, but I am happy at least God is preserving someone like you to tell the TRUTH." [V.N., Pittsburg, PA]..............................
"...While I was traveling on the train, the person next to me was reading a book called "Charismatic Captivation" (He was an American). Quickly I borrowed it and read it and praise God for raising up His servant to write the truth and expose the deception that's going on...." [Pastor R.F., Sri-Lanka]..............................
"I wanted to thank you on behalf of the entire Body of Christ for all the work and effort it took to write this monumental book. I am absolutely sure this book will go around the world, and one day be considered a classic! It cleared things up for me that have been nagging at my spirit and troubling me for years regarding the proper role of leaders in the lives of their followers! Thank you, thank you!" [Rev. T.H., Oklahoma]..............................
"My sincere thanks for sending your book,...it is a fireball of truth! ...Your dealing with the whole issue of covering and authority was wonderful!" [Rev. R.H. North Dakota]..............................
"...the hardest thing to deal with in all of this is the shame and humiliation of believing as truth something that was really control." [K.M., Michigan]
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