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S. Michael Houdmann
Supporter
The term "televangelist" has almost universally negative overtones. Typical responses from people who are asked what they think about televangelists include the following: dishonest, greedy, materi...
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Billy P Eldred
Supporter
I am always somewhat appalled by the lack of love shown here when a question regarding televangelist or tv ministry comes up. Many people are Saved through this type of ministry. We shouldn't be so quick to judge, rather, teach that believers have the responsibility to test everything they hear by reading the Bible for themselves. When Jesus was asked by the apostles if they should stop those who were driving out demons in Jesus name, Jesus replied "do not stop them for whoever is not against you is for you." Luke 9:50 As a more direct answer to your question, I recall Jim Baker being interviewed after his TV ministry fell. Upon being released from prison, the interviewer asked him a version of this question. His answer was that when you get so big and have so many people around you telling you how great you are, it becomes easy to believe it! He went on to say that in prison he repented (as we all should do when we fall into sin) an now takes every precaution to guard against it. And again has an effective ministry. Why do these things happen so often. Because, just like when Peter walked on the water, when you lose sight of Jesus, you begin to sink. TV evangelist are human and temptations come. Their fall is just there to be seen. Many churches large and small have similar scandals. They are just not as publicized. So, what should we do? "Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness." HEB 3:13
mark albright
Supporter
Was Jim Bakker thinking about Jesus when he raped Jessica Hahn? Was he thinking about poor senior Christians when he committed fraud? Have you watched his infomercials today with any inkling that he learned his lesson? He is the modern day poster child for wolf in sheep's clothing. If they have their own airplane, they are in it for the money. If their home costs more than a million dollars, I can introduce them to the poor in Nicaragua. If you go on national tv and are embarrassed to quote Jesus that He is the only Way, Truth and Life, then you are in it for the money. Jesus could have "healed for profit" yet He didn't have a roof. He CHANGED people's lives, and lived out humility. Phil 2:5-11. Have not seen that in one televangelist. Dr Stanley is one man of God who never mentions money and lives simply. I know. So, I do not consider him the modern televangelist. Those who do it for self or ego are using God and He will not be mocked.
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