Sunny Cornett

   As is customary during this time of year, many will be celebrating or engaging in activities, which pay homage to that which is dark and dead. What is more disturbing, however, are the frightening doctrines promulgated by many of the mega churches.

   In one such church "where never is heard a discouraging word" the cross is considered to be an offense (Osteen's words, not mine) and theology has taken a back seat to psychology. Instead of addressing the issue of sin, Joel prefers to help people realize their potential through the technique of visualization whereby one can essentially determine their future by merely speaking it into existence.

   Of course, Osteen isn't alone in his views. Robert Schuler has also been a strong advocate of "possibility thinking" along with most of TBN's televangelists who subscribe to the Word Faith movement. Faith is considered a power one possesses and God is merely the means by which it is activated. According to these televangelists we are little gods (Creflo Dollar, et al) who give permission (Benny Hinn) to God to grant us that which we name and claim (Kenneth and Gloria Copeland et al) and would prefer a satanic manifestation than no experience at all in the church (Rodney Browne). Further, as Kenneth Hagin has stated "If you can't find it in Scripture, don't worry about it,' cause God spoke it to me so you can believe it". Yikes! That sounds like something we'd expect the pope to say (the Catholic's "representative of Christ").

   But error doesn't stop there. In an attempt to narrow the gap between the world religions they have all too eagerly jumped on the ecumenical bandwagon as well. Whereas some blatantly admit to being universalist in their theology (ex. Robert Schuler), others claim to be Christian but concede that "They don't know" when it comes to the exclusivity of Christ as the way to God. After all, "The Hindus I've met seem so nice and sincere.... I know they know the same God I know" (Osteen). I'd venture to say that he might very well be right. They don't seem to know Jesus either.

   At best, these popular teachings, when blended with the Truth, are skim milk. The greater offense of these teachings, however, is the denial of Christ's redemptive work on the cross. Sadly, many Christians and, more importantly a lot of unbelievers don't see the danger in aligning themselves with such false teachings.

   Feelings nor experience can be a test for Truth and psychology is no substitute for doctrine. True love seeks that which is best for one and any solution apart from the cross is simply sloppy agape.