FINAL WARNING on Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa Leadership

Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa [hereafter CCCM] – The ‘Mothership’ of the Calvary Chapel movement - once the fortress of solid biblical teaching – is in danger of finally going completely off the rails into contemplative mysticism. CCCM was taken over (under questionable circumstances) by Chuck Smith’s son-in-law Brian Brodersen in 2013, after Pastor Chuck’s passing. Under Brian’s leadership, the church has been increasingly involved in ecumenical and otherwise aberrant events and programs. Brian’s endorsement of many false teachers, and partnerships with aberrant churches is well documented.

After being exposed in Oct. 2016 for his criticisms of CC founder Chuck Smith, and his disdain for his teachings on prophecy and the end-times, etc. – (See: https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/2016/10/24/calvary-chapel-pastors-conference-2016-leadership-departing-form-gods-word/ - Brian Split from the Calvary Chapel Association, took all the (global) properties (conference centers, Bible colleges, etc.) that were attached to Calvary Costa Mesa, and went and formed his own new group he calls the “Calvary Global Network” [CGN]. Also see: https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/2016/11/08/brodersen-splits-from-cca-calls-for-new-global-network/ 

And see: https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/2016/11/08/calvary-chapels-brian-brodersen-his-influence-and-control/

The ecumenical and contemplative exploits of Brian Brodersen has been extensively documented here on this blog. Before coming on staff at CCCM, Brian was for many years, senior Pastor of CC Vista, CA. During those years he helped build the ecumenical outreach in the UK, known as the Creation Fest. From the beginning, this outreach ‘partnered’ with many aberrant churches, including the heretical Anglican Holy Trinity Brompton – home of the European ‘Laughing Revival’ .

The problems with the Creation Fest have also been extensively documented here on this blog. Using the search box on the blog page – a search for ‘Brian Brodersen’ renders the user access to the many articles on these things. See: https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/?s=brian+brodersen See also: https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/2019/04/18/brian-brodersens-creation-fest-2019-exposed/

In January 2021 – Brian’s son, Char (Charles) Brodersen came on staff at CCCM as an “Associate Pastor”. in January 2023 Brian made him “Co-Senior Pastor.” – indicating that he will take the reigns from Brian when he turns over the keys to the kingdom. Brian’s plan is outlined in a CCCM video posted Jan. 14^th, 2023 https://www.calvarychapelcostamesa.com/teaching/story-of-the-church/video/cccm-leadership-update/ - and was announced to the CCCM flock that day. In the video, Brian and his son Char explain their plan for CCCM leadership. The plan is for a two year period, where Char serves as co-lead pastor alongside Brian. Then, in Jan 2025, Char is to be given the full leadership. Then Brian and wife Cheryl will take a “sabbatical”, and then return to lead (together?) the “Calvary Global Network” that Brian created for himself when he split from the CCA in November 2016. [see https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/2016/11/08/brodersen-splits-from-cca-calls-for-new-global-network/]

Char was formerly the lead pastor of Refuge Christian Fellowship in Santa Rosa, CA. Refuge was not a Calvary affiliate, but a member of the ‘New Calvinist’ Gospel Coalition. To get the background on Char Brodersen, see my article: https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/2018/06/25/all-in-the-family-nepotism-at-calvary-chapel-costa-mesa/ In addition to the documentation presented in my earlier (6/25/2018) article regarding Char and his affinity for Contemplative teachers and practices – His social media posts and ‘Likes‘ demonstrate a continued affinity for many false teachers.

In would not be an exaggeration to say that Char is a dyed-in-the-wool contemplative practitioner and teacher. BE WARNED that THIS is the man who is set to take over full control of Calvary Costa Mesa. Be advised to ‘MARK AND AVOID‘ Brian Brodersen, his son Char, and now, the church – CCCM itself.

EXHIBIT A: 

While he was an Associate Pastor at Calvary Costa Mesa, Char was interviewed In the “Holy Habits” podcast of 11/23/2021- https://strengthdignitylife.com/updates/s02e11-holy-habits-practicing-solitude-char-brodersen – Char describes how he “hit a wall” in his study of the bible. He says his theological books ”couldn’t feed the need of my soul”. So he says he “felt like” only by sitting in silence that then “The Lord met me in those moments”. And he says, “That’s how I discovered the disciple of silence and solitude.” Then, Char extols the virtues of this occult meditation. “Silence has a transformative power that words and other *experiences cannot teach us… a transformative power over our lives”.

In the podcast, @10:15 – Char says he felt he needed and found a teacher to teach him contemplative practices. Then he tells how he repeats a verse like “Be still and know that I am God” – He says: “I repeat this verse, close my eyes and CENTER MYSELF on that truth.” and if he gets distracted, he brings himself back to the CENTER- “RE-CENTER MYSELF”. At 11:20, He says he practices this at least 3x a week. Then @ 15m CB promotes Lectio 365 app – a product of the heretical Anglican Holy Trinity Brompton – Home of the European ‘laughing revival”. See: https://www.24-7prayer.com/resource/lectio-365/

“Lectio 365” is a Contemplative ‘Lectio Divina’ app for cellphones that is affiliated with the heretical Anglican Holy Trinity Brompton, previously mentioned. It is essentially repetitively using a word or a line of scripture as a meditational focal point to ‘silence’ the active mind and contact what is purported to be the God of the bible. This practice is factually a form of divination, expressly forbidden in God’s word, as it can bring one into contact with demonic spirits.

Then, in the podcast – at 17:36, Char says – “If we are looking for a true encounter with God, we are going to find it in following the way (alleged practices) of Jesus – BEING OPEN TO THE WAY the Holy Spirit will interject and present Himself to us in those moments of THE ANCIENT (Catholic monastic) PRACTICES.”

As seen in the above image, in this podcast, Char is regularly practicing and is openly promoting the practice of mystical (occultic) meditation, disguised as “solitude” or “silence“, or as “Spiritual Formation” or “spiritual disciplines“, etc. NOTE that the books referenced above, by M. R. Mulholland and Dallas Willard, are some of the prime material by two of the biggest “contemplative prayer” teachers.

NOTE: that the podcast interview of Char is on a page linked to the contemplative group “Youth For Christ” – See: https://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/youth-for-christ-still-using-the-labyrinth/

Char claims this practice is “intimacy” with God, and that we need this. But the True and Living God, who “inhabits His praises”, has us given us His Word, Prayer, worship and praise as what He intends for true intimacy with Him. Char claims that Jesus did this practice when he went to be alone at times, but scripture does not say he sat in alone in meditative silence. Only that he went to be alone – as in the garden of Gethsemane, to pray (WORDS) to The Father.

The above image gives a description of so-called “Christian Mediation” aka Contemplative prayer, that mirrors what Char Brodersen explains to his listeners in the above cited podcast.

“A MAN IS KNOWN BY THE COMPANY HE KEEPS”

…says an old proverb. And the Bible tells us: “Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character!” Both Brian and his son Char frequently share posts about false teacher Dan Kimball. Kimball literally wrote the book on “The Emerging Church”. He is also a contemplative promoter – particularly the practice of “Lectio Divina”.

See: https://www.apprising.org/2011/01/01/dan-kimball-of-the-emerging-church-and-lectio-divina/ – And see: https://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/dan-kimball-and-the-emerging-church-and-eastern-meditation/

Also NOTE: that just like in my previous post on the issues with Char and his bad associations – Char’s recent social media posts reflect the same affinity for Contemplative and Emergent teachers. Dallas Willard is probably the top proponent of mystical contemplative practices.

************

There is NO Biblical precedent for the practice of Contemplative prayer! The Bible tells us: Matt. 14:23 – “And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself TO PRAY. Now when evening came, He was alone there.” John 6:15 – “…He departed again to the mountain by Himself ALONE.” And in Luke 9:28 – “Now it came to pass, about eight days after these sayings, that He took Peter, John, and James and went up on the mountain to pray.”

The usual “proof text” : Psalm 46:10 – “Be still,^H7503and know^H3045 that^H3588 I^H595 am God:^H430 I will be exalted^H7311 among the heathen,^H1471 I will be exalted^H7311 in the earth.^H776.” <-> This verse means to CEASE striving and rest in God’s faithfulness and sovereignty. Yes, Jesus got alone – in solitude TO PRAY! Even as His model prayer instructs us in Matt. 6:6, “But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have (in solitude) shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.”

“Praying” a word or line from a bible verse repetitively is known as “Lectio Divina” (“divine reading’), and is a well known contemplative practice. Jesus warns is, in Matt. 6:7, ”When you pray do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do.” >> NOTE that Occult meditation uses an object or a word(s) (‘Mantra/ Invocation’), the breath, etc. – anything to focus the mind on a single point, so that the active, reasoning mind may be arrested or stilled and the person put into a form of self-hypnosis or “Alpha-State”. This altered consciousness is what pagan priests, shamans and occultists of every stripe have used for thousands of years, to contact spirits or “the gods”. What is actually contacted in this state is not the voice of God, or some benign spirit(s), but what the bible calls “Seducing” or “Deceiving Spirits” – these are demonic being who will gladly masquerade as whatever is needed to deceive and seduce the victim.

Author Jeremy James writes: “Meditation, contemplation, and visualization are all man made techniques for inter-acting with the supernatural. They are not ordained by God. The Bible makes it perfectly clear that the use of any technique for this purpose is divination or sorcery. The Plan Satan is implementing is designed to trick professing Christians into putting something else – a supernatural alternative – in place of repentant prayer to our Father and patient study of his Holy Word. The substitute that he offers, while seemingly full of promise, is a cunning counterfeit. One misguided church after another is taking the bait and introducing divination – in the form of meditation, contemplation, and visualization – in order to ‘communicate’ with God and ‘experience’ his presence. The bait may look good, but is laced with poison.”

The Apostle Paul warned: “Now the Spirit expressly says, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils!” – 1 Tim. 4:1 <-> And again in 2Cor. 11:3-4  Paul warns, “But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he who comes preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached, or if you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different gospel which you have not accepted – you may well put up with it!”

The end time apostasy is upon us [2 Thes. 2:9-11], and it is indeed now warranted to warn all believers (and anyone looking for a good bible teaching church) about what is happening at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa. As the Apostle Paul writes in Romans 16:17 – “Now I urge you, brethren, MARK those who cause divisions and offenses, that are contrary to the doctrine which you learned, AND AVOID THEM.” This warning also applies to the online teaching coming from this church.

Now, it is probably only a matter of time before the Calvary Bible Colleges, and the other educational institutions run by Brodersen’s CGN are corrupted with unholy ecumenism and mystical contemplative influences. As I was saved at Calvary Costa Mesa over 30 years ago, it greatly grieves this author to have felt it necessary to warn God’s kids so strongly – but warn I must! Please, I implore you to test everything against God’s Word, to see if it is is truly of The Lord.

We need, especially now days, to be like the Bereans, who, “…received the (preached) word with all readiness, but searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.” – Acts 17:11; And, taking to heart the exhortation: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God…” – 1 Jn. 4:1; The time is short my friends – Trust in God’s WORD and not in spiritual experiences. “Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him” – Psalm 30:5!

Calvary Chapel Pastors Endorsing NAR Dominionist False “Revival” ?

The heretical New Apostolic Reformation – NAR-postles are co-opting patriotic Christians and churches into ecumenical groups to promote their own false doctrine and make tons of money.

As I stated in previous articles, we certainly do need for Christians to get involved in government and in culture, etc. But NOWHERE in the Bible does it indicate that we are to take over (get “dominion” over) the country (or the planet) in order to set up Christ’s Kingdom so that then He is able to return. This is the hidden unbiblical agenda of the NAR and those who hold to Dominion Theology.

However, this ‘Patriotic Revival’, like other noble causes, is being exploited by unscrupulous false teachers, who are using this to draw away followers, enrich themselves and promote their false doctrines. There is no valid justification for partnering with false teachers in any format, at any venue, however “noble” it seems. The effect, unintended or otherwise, is to legitimatize the false teachers before the public.

The Covid lockdowns have significantly reduced the number of those attending churches, and this negatively affects church incomes. Unfortunately, MANY pastors are being lured into unbiblical ecumenical alliances. The biblical warnings about fraternizing with false teachers are swept aside. Getting on the “Revival” dominionist bandwagon of “Reclaiming America” become appealing as it draws in the crowds and naturally, their money… follow the money.

Rather than join in public crusades with false teachers, the Bible explicitly says that Christians, including pastors, are to “MARK those who cause divisions and offenses, CONTRARY TO the doctrine which you learned, AND AVOID THEM. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple.” – Romans 16:17-18

It should be noted: Calvary Chapel Chino Hills pastor Hibbs has ignored repeated warnings about his associations with well known false teachers. Now we have seen other CC pastors getting involved with false teachers. A friend of mine sent a certified letter to John Randall, which was received, and apparently ignored, as he went ahead and spoke at the ecumenical “Freedom Revival” event in San Diego 1/8/22.

A email warning was sent to pastor Mike McClure (CC San Jose) regarding his slated participation in the upcoming “Pastor Town Hall” video Conference [2/3/22]- https://www.pastortownhall.town/ – which features NAR kingpin Che Ahn. There has been no response to the email. CC pastor Rob McCoy (Calvary Godspeak) was also warned regarding his associations with NAR/ dominionist Che Ahn at the Jan. 8th “Freedom Revival” event. Again, there has been no response.

The issues with Jack Hibbs seems to have started with his association with Charlie Kirk of Turning Point USA. While Kirk has many valid and important points, his affinity with Dominion Theology is questionable. As Hibbs is at the forefront of the CC guys involvement – the following is a timeline of his compromises:

1] Dec. 5, 2019 – Hibbs hosts Charlie Kirk – who revealed his connection to dominion theologists at the 2020 CPAC speech, where he declared, “Finally we have a president that understands THE SEVEN MOUNTAINS of cultural influence.” [See: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-WiaPPxIHc @13.30 min.] [The “7 Mountain Mandate” is a doctrine of the NAR/ dominionists. See https://www.apprising.org/2011/01/31/dominion-theology/]

2] Jan. 5, 2020 – Participated in the Ecumenical “Evangelicals For Trump” event, which brought together well known evangelical pastors with Word-Faith and NAR linked false teachers.

3] Jan 20, 2020 CC pastors Hibbs and McCoy speak at the “California Renewal Project” in Anaheim, CA., alongside NAR apostate Che Ahn.

4] Feb. 2020 – Hibbs hosts Charlie Kirk & Rob McCoy…

5] July 22, 2020 – Promotes NAR linked “Saturate” event, which features Bethel Redding’s Sean Feucht. https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/2020/07/28/calvary-chapel-pastor-jack-hibbs-and-the-nar-linked-saturate-oc-events/

6] Aug 15, 2020 – Hibbs Live streams nationwide with dangerous Word Faith teacher James Robison…

7] Oct. 11, 2020 – Hibbs hosts “Freedom Sunday” with NAR false apostle Che Ahn – See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ht5dJDCtt1U (@ 35 min.)

8] Nov. 17, 2021 – Hibbs plays scene from the Mormon linked movie “The Chosen”. (@4.25min.)

9] Jan. 29, 2022 – Hibbs “Love Life” Conference with Bethel Redding guy Michael Seifert > $50 a person! https://lovelife.org/california-conference-registration/

Other popular CC pastors that have joined the “Revive America” crusade include Rob McCoy (CC Godspeak), Mike McClure (CC San Jose) and John Randall (CC So. OC). On Jan. 8, 2022 – ‘Freedom Revival’ – CC pastors John Randall & Rob McCoy sharing a podium with NAR people Che Ahn & Michael Seifert > https://freedomrevival.org/about/ (+ see my previous article)

Micheal Seifert comes out of Bethel Redding’s NAR linked School of Supernatural Ministry, and was on staff at their ranch for a time. Here is a pic of him being “knighted” by Bethel leaders Bill Johnson and Chris Vallotton. In his Instagram post he exclaims: “Today I got the amazing honor of being blessed, commissioned and knighted by the two fathers of Bethel…” (see image below)

And now we have the upcoming (Feb. 3rd) live stream event of (as mentioned above) the “Pastors Town Hall”. https://www.pastortownhall.town/. A prime example of this NAR/ Dominionist infiltration into mainstream evangelism – This is a monthly video conference featuring CC pastor Mike McClure and NAR-postle Che Ahn. Amongst the affiliated organizations is “Revive California” – https://revivecal.org/ – which is nothing but a front for Che Ahn, Bill Johnson & their NAR friends.

One might wonder why the CC pastors involving themselves in these events don’t at least use disclaimers – stating that they are not theologically aligned with these false teachers, etc. Without at least some form of disclaimer, these events could likely cause many to assume the dangerous false teachers involved are orthodox, and biblically sound – and thus be emboldened to become followers of these wolves.

God Word warns us of those who “…want to pervert the gospel of Christ. Even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach ANY OTHER gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.” – Galatians 1:7-9

Again, I remind the reader of the seriousness of dealing with false teachers: “WHOEVER transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ DOES NOT have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son. If ANYONE comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, DO NOT receive him into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.” – 2John. 1:9-11

Please PRAY for the Calvary Chapel movement and for these CC pastors – that associations with false teachers would be ended and the CC movement would return to their first love – God’s Word!

See the previous articles: https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/2022/01/07/freedom-revival-and-the-nar-leader-che-ahn/ And: https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/2022/01/07/freedom-revival-update/

Addendum: This article is not intended as any kind of a “broad brush” of all Calvary Chapel pastors. There are still many solid CC guys who haven’t departed from Pastor Chuck’s foundationals, nor succumbed to the pitfalls of money and popularity. However, as has been extensively documented on this blog the movement’s leadership has some very serious issues that still have not been addressed.

Freedom Revival – UPDATE

This is an update on the “Freedom Revival” which I posted on yesterday 1/5/22. The website posted the venue – San Diego’s Waterfront Park @1600 Pacific Coast Hwy. Times are 12 to 5pm. Also posted on the site is a list of 30 “vendors”. See: https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/2022/01/05/freedom-revival-harvest-of-deception/

I believe that the premise for the event is excellent and public demonstration against the government restrictions is sorely need. Still, however noble, this cause this event cannot be justified. Sadly, the organizers have taken as prime speakers, some of the most heretical false teachers and “apostles” on the planet.

Birds of a feather flock together…

For this reason, this event should not be endorsed: That the inclusion of these false teachers has the effect of legitimizing those false teachers, and thus stumbling not only believers, but unbelievers who may be encouraged to follow these heretics and their teachings.

The fact that the Calvary Chapel pastors and the event organizers apparently do not recognize (or refuse to acknowledge) the issues with the NAR speakers is witness to the mainstreaming of the movement within evangelical Christianity.

NAR Chieftains: C. Peter Wagner, Bill Johnson (Bethel Redding) and Che Ahn…

>>> Please PRAY for this event. PRAY for John Randall and Rob McCoy…

For more on the heretical NAR movement – The New Apostolic Reformation – see: https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/?s=NAR

See also: https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/2020/01/25/global-ecumenical-event-partners-nar-word-faith-and-mainstream-ministries/

How dangerous are the NAR-postles? WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVxn4wPZDBs

Freedom Revival : Harvest Of Deception

Under the banner of the seemingly noble cause of “Freedom” and “Unity”, once again, we see the unbiblical partnership of well known Calvary Chapel pastors with documented false teachers/ apostles. As I have pointed out before on this blog, such “unity” usually winds up legitimizing the false teachers, stumbling many of God’s people and deceiving unbelievers with unbiblical teachings.

A friend sent me the link to an upcoming event: Freedom Revival – which purports to be a group of conservatives and Christians standing against the infringements of freedoms by the Covid mandates.

SEE: https://freedomrevival.org/the-revival/. Jan. 8th, 2022 is the date. The site says they will “Conclude the day with an unforgettable March For Freedom in downtown San Diego!”

In this “revival” are popular Calvary Chapel pastors John Randall – of the mega church Calvary South OC (formerly known as CC San Juan Capistrano) – along with Rob McCoy of Calvary Chapel Thousand Oaks. Randall is host of the radio program “A Daily Walk“, and had been applauded for his stance against the direction of Brian Brodersen of the CC mothership in Costa Mesa. McCoy made a name for himself in the media for his stance against church lockdowns. Both men are extremely popular and now, very influential. However…

Prominent amongst the group of announced speakers is self-proclaimed “prophet” and leader of the New Apostolic Reformation [NAR] Che Ahn, leader of Harvest Rock Church. NOTE that Che Ahn has also made a name for himself through a federal lawsuit challenging the unconstitutional lockdown of churches.

The documentation of Ahn’s errors is very extensive :

1] https://churchwatchcentral.com/2018/05/15/che-ahn-the-1994-revival-in-toronto-restored-the-office-of-the-apostle/

2] https://www.828ministries.com/Diary/NAR-False-Teachers-Reach-G-by-Anthony-Wade-Prophet-171028-660.html

3] https://www.hollypivec.com/blog/2007/05/‘apostles’-from-well-known-ministries/109?rq=Che Ahn

4] https://www.828ministries.com/Diary/NAR-False-Teachers-Reach-G-by-Anthony-Wade-Prophet-171028-660.html

5] https://christianresearchnetwork.org/2020/11/30/nar-heretic-che-ahn-says-jesus-endorsed-his-book-as-most-important-book-of-the-hour/

As quoted in the above article by Anthony Wade, Che Ahn in his own words:

“One of the moments during the Global Summit that was of particular importance was when my good friend and respected prophet, Chuck Pierce, said on the opening night of the conference: Up until now HIM (Harvest International Ministry) has been known for apostles, but HIM is going to be known for the harvest. This is significant, because I also shared a word during the conference that true revival includes the reformation of society. HIM will be moving forward in reformation as we move forward in bringing in the lost! There were other strategies for reformation shared by the speakers, such as Bill Johnson, Lance Wallnau, Mark Chironna, Patricia King and more… Lance Wallnau brought clarity to our role as revivalists and reformers when he declared that, “revival is personal, but reformation is institutional.” And Bill Johnson imparted a word of wisdom for us as leaders and influencers, that all leadership has two basic functions: to protect and empower. We are empowered to rule so that we would protect and be released to serve so that we would empower people…” — Che Ahn

“Apostle” Che Ahn is the International Chancellor and now – PRESIDENT of C. Peter Wagner’s Wagner University – essentially taking over after Mr. Wagner passed away in 2016. The “faculty” list of this “university” features the heretical Bethel Redding’s: Bill Johnson, Shawn Bolz, and Kris Vallottan. See: https://wagner.university/faculty/. Wagner is a founding father of the NAR.

There is another “revival” speaker who also has extensive links to the NAR people: Jurgen Matthesius. Jurgen is a graduate of Hillsong Collage, and leader of Awaken Church in San Diego. The Harvest Revival site says that he has “led the charge” to “defy the tyrannical insanity” of the church lockdowns. Mr. Matthesuis’ NAR affiliations has been exposed in: https://narconnections.com/jurgen-matthesius-2/ Awaken Church was formerly known as C3 Church of San Diego – part of C3 Churches Global, chaired by NAR leader Phil Pringle and overseen by NAR “prophet” David McCracken. The article lists among Mathesuis’ associates: Bethel Redding‘s Bill Johnson; Dutch Sheets; Steven Furtick; Joel Osteen; Sean Bolz. .

Then there is Michael Seifert: Founder & CEO of Public Sq. – a marketing app to “connect freedom loving Americans to their local communities.” Michael’s Facebook reveals that he “Studied at Bethel [Redding] School of Supernatural Ministry“, and was even on staff at Bethel’s SOM ranch from Jan. 2019. Mr. Seifert has retweeted posts by Pope Francis, Joel Osteen, and Steven Furtick, to name a few. These things would indicate that Seifert is NAR affiliated and likely holds to Dominion Theology – as many NAR teachers do.

Dominion Theology, also known as the Seven Mountain Mandate, is an unbiblical movement that believes Christians have to take over the seven areas of secular culture in order to bring in God’s kingdom, so that then Christ can return. The seven areas are (roughly): The media, education, family, government, arts & entertainment and business. And, of course, the NAR “apostles” think they will be the leaders in this false kingdom. This is exemplified in this NAR article: https://www.generals.org/the-seven-mountain

* * * * * * *

We certainly do need Christians to stand up and defend their values and their freedoms. However, compromising God’s truth and legitimizing false teachers should never be done. The siren song of the false “unity” of the end-time apostasy – often cited – is in the misapplication of Jesus’ prayer in John 17:21 – “That they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.” – As though this verse is legitimatizing uniting with false teachers of every stripe – so as to fulfill Jesus’ prayer and make the world believe! What a deception…

We are told in Romans 16:17-18 to *MARK and avoid all those who teach doctrines contrary to biblical truth – NOT to partner with them in any in any way, even in some so-called “revival”. The seriousness of compromising with false teachers is evident in the verse: “Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this (biblical) doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.” – 2 John 1:9-11

Aside from the aforementioned problems, this “Revival” appears to be a platform for promoting “Christian” political candidates and select “conservative” for profit “ministries”. Much about it is, and will likely be used to promote, covertly, the goals of the Dominion Theology proponents.

Once again I need to remind people of the Apostle Paul’s prophetic warnings in 2 Thessalonians 2:9-11 – “The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie…”

Finally: “Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the (biblical) traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle.” – 2 Thessalonians 2:15 – Stand up for God’s Word, and keep standing on His Truth. Don’t buy the lie of the false unity of the great apostasy. Time is short… Come quickly Lord Jesus…

Calvary Chapel Pastor’s Conference Hosts Contemplative Promoting YWAM leader

Just the other day, a friend of mine sent me some screen captures and links regarding the recent [May 24-26, 2021] Calvary Chapel Association [CCA] sponsored East Coast Pastor’s Conference.

The CC Old Bridge Facebook page reveals that one of the speakers was Dan Baumann – a Senior leader from YWAM who promotes contemplative mysticism (among other issues). See https://www.facebook.com/CalvaryChapelOldBridge/posts/10159043954208213

Dan Baumann’s bio indicates his involvement with YWAM since his collage days, and has been “training, and disciplining young people” for YWAM since 1998. See https://www.danbaumann.com/bio/

He says: “In 2007, I moved to Kona, Hawaii, and joined the YWAM training center there to continue my work with disciplining young people. Currently I spend over ½ of my year traveling and teaching in YWAM, churches and universities.”

Baumann’s schedule – https://www.danbaumann.com/schedule/ – shows his speaking engagement at the CCA Pastor’s Conference on May 24, 2021. Also the schedule reveals that he is a frequent teacher at YWAM’s Discipleship Training School [DTS], as well as a regularly teaching at the Antioch Discipleship Schools. Antioch Church promotes materials by NAR (New Apostolic Reformation) leaders such as Bill Johnson of Bethel Redding.

YWAM Kona’s DTS offer such programs (for $3,500-5,500) as “Fire & Fragrance”, where they boast: “We feel super excited to offer training from our heroes like Todd White [NAR], Banning Liebscher…” [Bethel Redding], and other aberrant teachers. See https://ywamkona.org/dts_courses/fire-fragrance/

The problems with YWAM are legion – Not the least of which is their teaching of contemplative mystical practices. See their list of recommended resources at https://ywam.org/uncategorized/contemplative-prayer/

YWAM says: “Join us this month as we take up “The Invitation” and join together with thousands of YWAMers from around the world as we pray and hear from God about Contemplative Prayer… Over recent years, a significant number of us in the YWAM family have, like Steve, been growing more familiar with contemplative practices…” And, “Please join with YWAM’s global prayer day… to experience God in deeper ways through contemplative methods.”

How deep is YWAM in occultic contemplative mysticism? Consider their own training “resource” page:

>> So, in light of the preceding documentation, WHY was YWAM’s Dan Baumann allowed to speak at the CCA (not Brian Brodersen’s CGN network) sponsored Pastor’s Conference? Why was this false teacher allowed to influence the CC pastors in attendance? One trustworthy brother has informed me that he has personally warned CCA leader Don McClure of the issues with YWAM and other NAR affiliated groups.

The CCA ‘Leadership Council‘ is currently composed of 11 men. Sandy Adams, Bill Goodrich, Joe Focht, Jeff Johnson, Don McClure, Mike Macintosh, Lloyd Pulley, David Rosales, Raul Ries, Bill Stonebreaker and Malcolm Wild. See https://calvarycca.org/leadership-council/. The leaders of the Leadership Council appears to be Don McClure, Sandy Adams and Joe Focht.

Note that this writer is not judging hearts/ motives here, but examining the fruits (actions) of these men on the CCA. This is not the first time the CCA leadership has erred, or failed to take action against aberrant teachings within Calvary Chapels they are assigned to oversee. Again, one has to ask WHY was this false teacher from YWAM invited to this fairly intimate gathering of CC pastors?

My concern is (and has been, with similar incidents) for those in attendance – who may have known about the issues with YWAM (and why they didn’t speak up) – and with those who aren’t familiar with YWAM and were stumbled by this ecumenical event and possibly emboldened to follow this man and his heretical organization.

Make no mistake about it – these false teachers are out there actively looking to weasel their way into biblical churches and infect them with their demonic doctrines (see 1Tim. 4:1). NAR affiliated people are now everywhere and their doctrines and practices are spreading like a cancer.

The enemy is going after church leaders to corrupt the teachings and infect churches. There are now many organizations who purport to “minister” to pastors – ones such as Rick Warren’s “Pastors.com“, Bill Hybels “Lead.net“, “SOULeader” https://www.souleader.org/spiritual-direction, etc. With many of these, the agenda is not biblical edification, but MIS-leading indoctrination/ recruiting with their pet doctrines – especially contemplative practices.

Although many of these churches/ groups post a ‘Statement of Faith‘ that may seem doctrinally correct, in reality they are heretical and dangerous to the body of Christ. Groups like YWAM may try to hide what they really teach – changing the terminology, blocking outsider access to their materials, etc. – but they are up to their eyeballs in occultic contemplative mysticism.

God has warned against pagan practices, including all forms of divination. Seeking extra-biblical revelation and/ or supernatural “encounters” through contemplative practices is certainly divination. God has forbidden such things because they can bring one into direct contact with demonic *seducing [Gk. #4108 – imposter, deceiver, seducing] spirits.

Anyone familiar with occultic ‘New Age’ doctrines and practices should be able to recognize what groups like YWAM are teaching. Their article (see above graphic), “EXPLORE Contemplative Practice” – wherein people are instructed to create a daily routine of “Breath Prayers”, combined with occultic visualization – is a prime example.

Any honest occultist will tell you that visualization (holding a fixed image in the mind) and projection (invocations, chanting mantras, etc.) are the two key components of occultic practice. So, rather than inviting heretical teachers to teach Calvary pastors, CCA leaders should be exhorting pastors with the warnings:

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits…” – Matthew 7:15-16

“Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.” – Ephesians 5:11

“Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving (seducing) spirits and doctrines of demons.” – 1Timothy 4:1

“If anyone comes to you and does not bring this (biblical) doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.” – 2John 1:10-11

Please PRAY for the men in CCA leadership (and for the Calvary Chapels): For wisdom, discernment, protection, and they would stand strong against the rising tide of ecumenism and compromise with worldly programs – and that they would truly stay the course, in line with God’s Word and with the vision of CC founder Pastor Chuck Smith.

See Emergent Watch’s previous posts on YWAM: https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/2018/02/22/ywams-occultic-new-age-alternatives-ministry/

And see: https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/2018/07/13/update-on-ywams-new-age-alternatives-ministry/

See also: https://emergentwatch.wordpress.com/2016/11/08/brodersen-splits-from-cca-calls-for-new-global-network/

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UPDATE RE: YWAM

One of the groups YWAM lists on their “Take Action” page the Transforming Center is specifically targeting Christian pastors and other leaders in the church for “Transformation”, using occultic contemplative practices.

Like Warren’s Pastors.com, Hybels Lead.net and others, the Transforming Center is indeed aiming to transform the church into an ecumenical cult of mysticism – one unrecognizable from the genuine biblical foundation.

See their website here: https://transformingcenter.org/spiritual-direction-4/

Brian Brodersen Now Promoting Contemplative Mysticism

Calvary Costa Mesa’s Brian Brodersen – via his Creation Fest – appears to be working in an active, continual partnership with the Church of England. On their Social media pages, CFest has had LIVE Q&A sessions with Tim Thornton – [COE] Bishop of Truro [Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary]; And, on April 26th, CFest posted “The Official Common Worship App” from the Church of England, for anyone to download. Bishop Thornton has also been a frequent speaker at various CFest events.

The CFest 2017 will feature contemplative advocate Kay Arthur. See: http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=11053 And also: http://apprising.org/2014/07/05/kay-arthur-with-erroneous-contemplative-interpretation-of-psalm-4610/

The Big news is that Brian Brodersen’s CFest is now an active participant & promoter of the COE’s “Thy Kingdom Come” [TKC] ecumenical prayer event, to be held at the Truro Cathedral, May 28th, 2017 – and “Hosted by Creation Fest UK“. Their Facebook post of May 10th states: “JOIN US in prayer with an afternoon of events at the majestic Truro Cathedral as part of the global Thy Kingdom Come prayer initiative.”

The COE’s Truro Cathedral FB page post of May 10, 2017 specifically identifies the Thy Kingdom Come event to be held there on May 28, as “Creation Fest UK’s event“. [See links & screen captures]

Truro Cathedral’s FB page events post declares: “Join the worldwide initiative to pray – http://www.thykingdomcome.global – in partnership with the Diocese of Truro, Churches Together in Cornwall and Creation Fest“.

See:  https://www.facebook.com/events/637597366438107/?acontext={“action_history”:”[{\”surface\”:\”page\”,\”mechanism\”:\”page_upcoming_events_card\”,\”extra_data\”:[]}]”,”has_source”:true}

And see: https://www.facebook.com/creationfestuk/photos/a.431524083720.192705.123195133720/10154651135978721/?type=3&theater

And see: https://www.facebook.com/creationfestuk/photos/a.431524083720.192705.123195133720/10154626763903721/?type=3&theater

The TKC events are billed as a series of “Prayer” events, but are thoroughly contemplative. Included in the TKC materials are instructions for activities for individuals, families, churches and children, that include, amongst other things:

• Lectio Divina
• Labyrinth walking
• Prayer Stations
• Breath Prayers
• Sitting in silence for extended periods
• Taize Worship (w/ candles & music)
• Symbolic (ritualistic) body movements, hand signs etc. – called “Prayer Games“

Also, many of these practices are combined and executed together. Then, there are many “activities” designed for children, specifically to engage their senses and activate their imagination. Teaching them God’s Word does not seem to be one of these activities.

NOTE that most of these activities are designed to put one into an altered state of consciousness. It is well known that altered states render one susceptible to occultic spiritual (demonic) influences. These forces can subtly influence one towards anti-biblical beliefs and into further occultic practices.

The TKC “Facilitator’s Guidebook” indicates it was written by the contemplative monks of the Society of St. John the Evangelist [SSJE.org] These monks host regular contemplative retreats at their facilities. See https://www.thykingdomcome.global/resources/102

One of the handouts – “Praying the 11 prayers of Thy Kingdom Come” – Like the schedule for the daily prayers that end in Taize contemplation, so the prayers of Thy Kingdom Come end with:

[9:] “Celebration” – using the occultic statement: “Everything and everyone we meet is sacred and charged with God’s Glory” [10:] “Silence – contemplation“; [11:] Saying “I do this in God’s name“…

To summarize: Note that Brian Brodersen, as the Executive Director of the Creation Fest UK – is directly responsible for it’s activities. It has been demonstrated that the Thy Kingdom Come activities are based on contemplative, consciousness altering practices. Brodersen’s CFest FB page shows us CFest is hosting the event, and the COE’s Truro Cathedral FB page states that the May 28th event is “Creation Fest UK’s event”. For Brodersen and company to try to deny or claim ignorance of the contemplative factors being promoted here would be useless. BB is not simply reposting or liking posts by known contemplatives – He is now, himself now an active promoter of contemplative mysticism.

[NOTE: The links herein may be deleted by BB and co. after this article appears. This is why screen captured documentation is important.]

Also – All of documentation/ screen captures are now available for enlarged viewing on a separate page @  https://emergentwatch.com/documentation/

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Calvary Chapel & The Whosoevers: Pulling The Wool Over Your Eyes