The Man Behind Senator Grassley

Posted On
06/04/2008

The Man Behind Senator Grassley

The man who allegedly fed the recent information to Senator Grassley on the six media ministries that are currently under investigation was Ole Anthony. That’s not difficult to believe since his small but vocal organization did the key research that Diane Sawyer used in 1991 to bring down Robert Tilton, Larry Lea, and W. V. Grant. His “mission” is to be a “TV evangelist cop” and his people supposedly keep tabs on a wide range of media ministries through various techniques, from taping their TV and radio programs to climbing through their trash. But this article from
the Dallas Observer indicates that Ole Anthony may actually be more of a problem than the ministries he exposes. One of his ex-members has written a book on his activities called “I Can’t Hear God Anymore: Life In a Dallas Cult.” This is a pretty comprehensive feature story from the Dallas Observer, so take your time. If you’re interested in these things, it will probably give you a interesting new perspective on Ole Anthony and his credibility (or lack thereof.) After you read it, let me know your thoughts.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, June 4th, 2008 at 7:49 pm and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

Nan Isaacson

To find the organization that is controlling Congress/the President/ and will bring our country down shortly is on 2 (2hr DVD's) that you order by going to http://www.themoneychangers.com. This organization, once it consolidates Canada,MX and US, will set up its own government, eliminate the Constitution and most likely declare a religion blueprint for this new "AMERICAS" Beware, it is on the horizon.

FYI Chuck Baldwin -Constitution Party/Ron Paul, REP both declare that want to abolish this organization–if elected most likely will not survive long enough to do it. FIND OUT WHO THE REAL ENEMY IS.

In GOD WE TRUST.

Nan
Margaret

Amen !

I have just recently realized that a neighbor and supposedly friend was just such a type of person. You are absolute correct. STAY AWAY from them !

There is nothing but sorrow involved in trying to have a relationship/friendship with such a person. I began to figure something about them wasn't kosher but blamed myself for not being more understanding or sensitive to their needs, what a mistake.

I began to even think this woman was void of a soul, she was so vindictive and manipulating.

It should be mandatory study in public schools/all schools, to enable people to spot sociopaths or narcissist individuals, they are just as damaging to our psych. and safety as any other kind of dangerous criminal type person.

These kinds of people are really BAD news! STAY far away or if one realizes you are involved in any way with one…..GET THE HELL AWAY FROM THEM ! Or they can make your life hell. I know from first hand experience.
Bart Breen

A pox on both their houses!!

Seriously, Focusing on Ole Anthony is hardly an effective strategy to reform the abuses of televangelists. I really don't care much about how bad he can be made to look to divert attentions from those televangelists whose lifestyle and lack of accountibility have served to give Christendom a black eye.

I rather suspect anyone who works in an effective means to draw attention from government or the press in that direction can expect a similar personal hatchet job from those who wish to turn things into a personal P*ssing match to see who can score the most points.

It's never been about Ole Anthony, even if he is an imperfect vessel. Take him out of the mix and nothing changes.
C Stahl

Rev 12:10 talks about the "accuser to our brethren" I Peter 5:8 tells us to be "vigilant because your adversary walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." If someone stands in this office against another believer, he is imitating Satan.

In John 8, Jesus didn't condemn the woman caught in adultery, only the Pharisees. Jesus stated,"He who is with out sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first." In verse 43 and 44 He asks, "Why do you not understand my speech? Because you are not able to listen to My word. You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer(character assassin) from the beginning and does not stand in the truth."

It is obvious to me, Ole Anthony needs deliverance from evil spirits. Pray for him so that he is delivered.
Elizabeth Conley

"Duncan looked at the man he had followed for 21 years. "Ole," he said, "you have a personality disorder. You are a narcissist."

I read the Dallas article, and noted that one former member of the group thought Mr. Anthony was a Sociopath, Duncan and his wife concluded he was a Narcissist. Although both personality types are rare, these are the types of people who lead cults. When we're protecting ourselves and others from harm, sociopaths and narcissists should be treated the same way. Get away from them and stay away from them. Zero contact, if possible, minimal contact if not.

When it comes to reacting to the two different disorders, it's important to distinguish Narcissists from Sociopaths. The two may act virtually the same, and treat others equally badly, but their emotional lives are vastly different. Sociopaths don't feel much, and it doesn't hurt them to be condemned or shunned. Narcissists are acutely sensitive and hyper vigilant to slights. They suffer the agonies of the damned each time they are criticized even slightly. Be kind. Nothing is served by upsetting them. Besides, they are subject to narcissistic rage when they are slighted, and will do and say things to hurt their attackers that no normal person is prepared for. You don't want to go there. It's exponentially worse than the proverbial mud fight with a pig.

There's not enough information here to figure out if Ole Anthony is a sociopath, a narcissist or simply misunderstood. I advise caution. There are all sorts of good reasons to leave him alone. It's not so much that I think he's to be feared, as I think no good comes from condemning him. It makes no difference to a Sociopath, Narcissist become deeply distressed but are unable to alter their behavior, victims of slander don't need more grief – so there's no point.

Most importantly, it's a rare individual whom you can warn away from a sociopath or narcissist. Most good people can't fathom what narcissists and sociopaths are, but they've heard slander before, and that's what describing someone as a narcissist or a sociopath sounds like. If a Christian hasn't experienced a relationship with one of these bizarre individuals first hand, they just don't get it.
Elizabeth Conley

PS: The top viewed story at the Dallas observer site is about Sherman Allan. Now that's some lurid stuff, probably true too. There are some very detailed police and medical reports substantiating some of his victims claims.

Yep, some pretty vicious people crave the power of Christian leadership. Warning people doesn't seem to make a difference either. Some people actually seem more attracted to these dangerous personalities after they've been warned.
James
I have grown up listening to Kenneth Copeland. I have hear most of the things he has found and taught in the word of God. I will admit Im not where I should be and recently I am getting back into the word. The teaching of healing from that ministry and many others have helped me and I have been delivered from depression,alchohol, and tobacco. Why ? How it happen . Cause I choose to believe in the word that was taught to me by these 6 ministies. People who say it doesnt work like they say did the failing not the preachers, and certainly not the Word of God where they got the teaching from. Everything that Kenneth and Gloria Copeland teaches is right from the word of God. Even a sinner that is rich can see that if he gives to others he will be blessed. That is what they believe and teach. Plant a seed, IT is right there in the bible. God is not mocked what so ever a man soweth he shall reap, sow sparringly reap sparringly . If you sow a seed and dont believe you will recieve from it and your only doing it cause a man told you it works . First you got to know that is what god wants you to give. it also work out of obedience not out of anything else and thats what these men and women of God teaches. As a partner of kcm, the seneter has no right to my information. This is what i was told I could do as a partner:Pray
- Pray against strife and for unity in the Body of Christ (James 3:14, 16; Matthew 18:19).
- Pray for peace, knowing that by being peacemakers we receive the blessing (Matthew 5:9).
- Pray for continued protection of the Constitution—that leaders will understand the spiritual foundations that undergird the Constitution and values that make this country great.
- Pray for Sen. Grassley and all men and women in leadership (1Timothy 2:1-2).
- Pray for Kenneth and Gloria Copeland and Kenneth Copeland Ministries and all ministries, that they continue to walk in love and boldness of ministry, and that every misunderstanding and opposition turns to the furtherance of the preaching of the gospel without compromise (Philippians 1:12, 19; Ephesians 6:18-20).
That alone is great integraty .

Thank you for letting me voice my thoughts and thank you for putting up with my bad spelling and grammer lol. 8)
anonymous

It's time for Christians to practice the ability of recognizing narcissists and sociopaths who are often melded together as toxic manipulators, and disguised as saintly church members. These people are responsible for church splits, destroying pastors, worship leaders, dividing families, slander and maligning innocent people. Unfortunately they are not rare, but are among us more than we know. I highly recommend a book by Dr. George K. Simon: In Sheep's Clothing – Understanding and Dealing with Manipulative People. He identifies three professions populated most by sociopathic/narcissitic manipulators: 1) The Church 2) Politics 3) Law Enforcement. Narcissists are actually on the sociopathic spectrum; to what degree on that spectrum depends upon their behavior.

You're right about warning others against associating with these types, as most people (especially Christians), won't believe the warnings because of how charming and wonderful these sociopaths can come across.

I disagree about leaving them alone, however. My husband and I made that mistake and we've regretted it deeply. We recognized our son's fiance as a toxic manipulator and divider. We never confronted her on her behavior because we naively thought prayer would be sufficient in opening our son's eyes. Even pastors we counseled with were captivated and taken in by her. By the time we learned the truth from others coming forward with what she had been saying and doing, the damage had been done – their marriage went forward, and our family remains divided — all because we were ignorant and underestimated the power these people have.

Knowledge and education about this type of personality, coupled with the power of the Holy Spirit and knowing the Word of God – these are the best weapons we have.
Arlene

Excellent response James (on June 30 at 12:53). To your most awesome points I will add the scripture "Touch not my anointed and do my prophets no harm." God will not be mocked — He will not allow his childen to be taken advantage of. The fact that KCM ministries continues and continues to thrive is proof of His favor over that ministry.

Why can't Christians, just pray for each other instead of biting and tearing into each other? The bible warns against division and strife. I can't think of any other "religion" or "group" or "sect" that maligns and speaks against and rips each other more than Christians. THAT is what grieves the Father. Love never fails!! NEVER!!
Bart Breen

Is the continued success of the Unification Church a sign of God's favor?
AmeriKan

Unification Church…."continued success."(?!) I guess some people's idea of success is different than others.
Bart Breen

If someone is going to raise organizational growth and financial success as evidence of God's favor then you need to explain why the unification Church, the Mormon's, the Jehovah's Witnesses et all are growing and successful as well.
AmeriKan

Your arguement might have some validity, if the groups you mention were Christian, but they are not.

KCM, Benny Hinn, Joyce Meyer, et al, are "successful Christian ministries" and they are not going away any time soon, contrary to what some desire.

Ole Anthony is only one of a string of "Gospel police" who have come and gone over the years while these same mentioned ministries continue to grow, thrive and reach the lost…like our friend above.
Phil

I would have to admit that Bart's argument does have validity. You have to explain what you mean by "success." I would have to agree that nowhere in the Bible does it say metrics like growth, large audiences, increasing income, or size alone are signs of success from a Biblical point of view… In fact, does the Bible speak in terms of "success" at all?
AmeriKan

First, did you read my post? I cannot think of anything more "successful" by a ministry than "reaching the lost." Our brother, James, testified to that fact very clearly. He is only one of thousands that these ministries have reached. If it takes money, TV and pink hair, then more power to them. Comparing KCM to the Unification Church, would be like comparing John Wesley to the Church of England….big difference!

Secondly, our brother, Mr. Green, brought up the issue of success. Though the Bible doesn't mention "success," I think we can all agree that the Bible gives us a rather clear picture of what it means to be a real and effective Christian.
Phil

Good answer. So in the case of Copeland or any other ministry, how do you measure that success? Do you receive regular reports of how many lost people have been saved from that particular ministry? How do you measure your giving investment? Is there a parameter you follow, or do you just take their word for it?
AmeriKan

Phil… "Good answer." Good question…deserves another good answer. :-) Most of these ministries send out newsletters and stats on a regular basis to their "partners." It is legitimate to question a ministry's own public media statements. As in the case of Benny Hinn and their recent IRS report, I guess one could go directly to the IRS to validate a ministry's claims. I'm sure Senator Grassley would be more than happy to accomodate those interested.

I have been "in this" a good deal longer than most and I think there are some practical ways to measure a ministry's success. As in the case of Benny Hinn, I have probably been to 10 crusades or more, in person, and other meetings of his, long before the crusades. The results are staggering…documented healings verified by onsite physicians, as well as documentation by the individual's personal physician. Stand in the lines for a few hours and listen to the numbers of people who have been help/or saved under his ministry. Be present and personally witness the altar calls and folllow-up…nothing short of amazing and almost beyond belief. The same for KCM. I did not like KC in his early years. My wife kept the radio on…then the TV. I "succombed" to a Believer's Convention….then had to repent. Over the years, we have been to many KCM meetings and witnessed the results, just as with Benny Hinn. After reading and studying their books/writings for years, you get an understanding of what their M.O. is and what they "are all about." You come to the conclusion that they are "accomplishing something" and making a serious impact for good in our world…it is not rocket science…sometimes just common sense. Same for a local church like VCC in Tulsa. Go to their meetings, talk to the poeple, be nosey, hand around awhile and if need be, participate/volunteer and really find out what they are doing with your $$. Just as with a local chruch, there are ways to see the ministry's Annual Financial/Business Report (often made available only to members and partners). Contact the children's homes, hospitals, ministries, etc., they are assisting/or funding. And, oh yes, prayer and listening the the Holy Spirit might be appropriate, too. :-)

Eyes and ears and a sincere desire to find out the truth go a long way and what I have said, neither takes a lifetime or years to figure out. I tell my professional colleagues the same…. "Education and an inquiring genius are good, however, a little footwork and commonsense may serve you and others better."
Bart Breen

I understand the point. However, if you're going to limit the definition of organizations to "Christian" are you then suggesting that only those ministries or organizations that experience financial success or organizational growth are the recipients of God's favor?

Perhaps success needs to be defined more clearly or else broad appeals to any organization that appears within the the parameters of a definition of Christianity that is growing and receiving support would be above criticism or accountibility?

PTL anybody?

My point is that it is ridiculous to hold a ministry as above criticism because it has multiple followers or testimonies to the personal impact on their lives. If the organization doesn't evidence internal controls and fiscal accountibility it's not wrong to point that out and call upon them to clean that situation up for their own reputation as well as the greater cause of Christ.
AmeriKan

Bart…your first question is a valid one. I don't believe financial success and growth automatically means, "God's favor/or approval."

I don't see any organization being above criticism or accountability. Jim Bakker would not have "fallen" had he listened to Richard Dorsch. And Dorsch would not have spent time in prison had he followed his convictions…but he erred on the side of "loyalty." Jim Bakker, just like Bob Tilton, started out right in the beginning and for a time was above board.

In the case of Hinn, for the last three years, they have been investigated and thoroughly probed by the IRS and on December 6, 2007 received a clean review letter by the IRS. This is "evidence of internal control and fiscal accountability." I am confident we will see the same with Meyer and Copeland. I am also "confident" there are those who, if you said the "sky was red," they would say, "No, it's green." People believe what they want to believe, in spite of "ALL the cards being on the table." Makes no difference what the goverment demands and sees, nor how many people they help or reach…they will "always be wrong in the eyes of some critics." It was no different in Jesus day…the scribes and pharisees saw what they wanted to see…did not matter who Jesus helped…who John helped…who Stephen helped, etc. Regardless of the evidence, if they did not get what they wanted…then off with their heads. The same is done, today, only in a carefully crafted, political way.

I am as much a stickler for honesty and integrity, as the next person. I trust the other ministries will follow the example of Hinn and Meyer and if the gavel comes down in their favor as it has for Hinn, then I think it's time the vocal critics step to the platform, "bend over and receive their due process." But, then, who is holding their breath.
Bart Breen

I hope you're right.

I take no joy in organizations falling and besmirching the name of Christ.

I'd have more confidence in the claims of some of these organizations if they belonged to and adhered to accountibility organizations instead of making claims of their internal standards but refusing access to confirm them.

Talk is cheap.
AmeriKan

Every ten years or so, the critics surface and make their Goliath assault on the TV preachers. In the last fifty years, I can only think of a few that have been true charlatans. While demanding "accountability" of the TV preachers, we continue to endure the hypocrisy of the Ole Anthonys. I suspect the phariseeical critics have more skeletons than most of us care to know about.

The lions roar and the tongues wag but the accused in the end, continue to stand, continue to labor in God's vineyard and continue to advance the Kingdom of God. And what have the critics done? ….You are right, "Talk IS cheap."
Bart Breen

Again you return to the idea that "success" is vindication and throw out generalities while avoiding the fact that in this thread, KCM has failed to make their records public and doesn't belong or abide to industry standards established by even self-regulatory organizations such as the ECFA.
AmeriKan

I understand and believe in the Biblical pattern of "success." I, also, understand the success (and failures) of preachers, churches and ministries. Your idea and my idea of success are not exactly juxtaposed, which is OK. I just like my idea of success better. :-) Over the long haul, it has made me a better servant and I think the same for those whom I have worked with in the ministry and professionally.

KCM has been around for 40 years and has always risen to the challenge. I am confident they will do no less, today. KCM survived without ECFA…many other organizations and churches have not needed their help, either. Benny Hinn Ministries submited >4000 pages of documents to Grassley. Interestingly, the "religious" sector remains mute…not worthy of their "tabloid headlines."
Trish

The only sad part about all this is that laws will be passed that harm innocent churches that are preaching the TRUE gospel of the CROSS of CHRIST all because of greedy televangelists and their multi-million dollar "industries" masqerading as churches.
Bart Breen

I posted this in the Nepotism Thread as well.

This was posted by AP News Service in the last 24 hours and gives more detail to the issues surrounding KCM.

http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jhLNcxqGPktbbovb1kMFVwo7WK1wD92638KG0
AmeriKan

The following link is a blog by Doug Wead which you will not see published by the AP.

http://www.believersstandunited.com/blog/

Follow-up article by Wead with link at bottom of blog.

Doug wead is a presidential historian, philanthropist and public speaker. He was special assistant to former U.S. President George H.W. Bush and author of more than 30 books, including NY Times best seller, All The Presidents Children. You can read more about Mr. Wead via Wikipedia.
Bart Breen

The link doesn't work. I'd be interested in seeing the other side as well. Maybe you can put it up again and test that it works?
AmeriKan

For some reason, TCR website is not allowing access to the believersstandunited website. I typed it into my address bar and accessed the link with no problem.
Bart Breen

I read it and it echos some of the concerns that I've had in general with the approach of a Senate investigation. Those concerns are valid and worth discussing.

There's quite a difference however in how the 6 ministries involved have responded. KCM and Creflo Dollar are taking a very non-cooperative argumentative track versus how Joyce Meyers and Benny Hinn are addressing things so there's quite a difference even between the 6 involved.

There's a difference between liberty and license in my opinion. When I hear ministries wrapping themselves in the flag and attempting to drum up things of this nature as opposed to recognizing that there is a legitimate role for government to regulate some things and especially when those ministries are not addressing the issues raised, it comes across to me as deflection and not integrity. I guess we'll have to wait and see how this plays out.
KC

It is my understanding that Copeland has also passed IRS scrutiny and has offered all their files to the IRS.

Perhaps you would prefer a society where all of your personal information and relationships could be forced out of you by a vindictive enemy and twisted and taken out of context to make you look as bad as possible.

Why don't you trust the IRS to do their work and protect Copeland's legal and precious right to privacy while complying with government scrutiny?

Why not divulge what Communist or Ultra Legalist organization you are really representing?
Jason Nugent

Why are we defending Kenneth Copeland and the prosperity gospel? Are we so brainwashed by the likes of TBN that we can no longer read the Scriptures for ourselves and see the Truth? Jesus Christ came to die for sinners, and to resurrect on the third day. He commissioned his Church to proclaim the 'good news', not a 'get rich quick scheme'. Open your eyes! I recommend going to http;//www.sermonindex.com and checking out David Wilkerson's 'Reproach of the Solemn Assembly'. As a matter of fact, read and listen to a lot of the classical gospel preachers at Sermon Index. None of them preach 'the prosperity gospel'. They preach the Biblical faith. Listen to Wilkerson, Ravenhill, Tozer, Reidhead, and so many more, and maybe you'll see that these prosperity guys are preaching a 'different gospel'. How can a 'supposed' ministry remain in 'nonprofit' status if it's bringing in multiple tens of millions of dollars per year, and has a 20 million dollar corporate jet?

http://www.sermonindex.com

http://www.revivalschool.com

http://www.endtimespropheticwords.wordpress.com
Faith Walker

So much judging going on based on the work of Ole Anthony and Senator Grassley and your opinion of how things should be.

Our problem is that so-called Christians don't read the words of the Bible and hear what God has to say, instead of what we think he is saying or meaning. To help yourself, I recommend that you do what I did – get a modern translation of the Bible and READ IT! Our mission in life is not to judge others when we don't agree with their doctrine but to lift up the name of Jesus and live our lives – moment by moment – with the awareness that God watches all we do and say and will judge us accordingly. In the end, when we criticize anyone – tv evangelist, neighbor, other Christians – we are putting ourselves on God's throne – just as Satan did. When you or anyone else send out emails that call people greedy or pass judgments, you are falling victim to the spirit behind these actions by people who want to see these ministries destroyed. If every tv evangelist went away, would the world be a better place? Who would reach the lost they are reaching? People who spend their time on the internet judging others apparently would not get it done. Go on your way and do something better – if you are trully a Christian, you will. We have to give an account for what we say and do. Simple hmmmm…..
Phil

Not sure, but I think you just did some judging….. :-)
Elizabeth Conley

1 Corinthians 5:

11 But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat.

12 What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? 13 God will judge those outside. "Expel the wicked man from among you."

1 Corinthians 6

1 If any of you has a dispute with another, dare he take it before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the saints? 2 Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases? 3 Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more the things of this life! 4 Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, appoint as judges even men of little account in the church!^[a] 5 I say this to shame you. Is it possible that there is nobody among you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers? 6 But instead, one brother goes to law against another—and this in front of unbelievers!

7 The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated? 8 Instead, you yourselves cheat and do wrong, and you do this to your brothers.

The hysterical fear of judging is not biblically based, and it is causing serious problems. This fear was inspired by "Christian" leaders who want to live without respecting personal boundaries or obeying laws, and wish to live out their fantasy among the faithful, exploiting and abusing us.

We need to judge more, not less. Then we will not suffer the humiliation of having the secular press trumpet the blatant, in your face decadence of certain out of control "Christian Leaders". It's our duty to judge between right and wrong actions. It's our duty to police ourselves.

Enough with the "Thou shalt not judge!" commandment. You won't find that one in the Bible. It comes straight from the pulpit of the sleaziest "pastors" in the land.

Just one more thing, Faith Walker: "People who spend their time on the internet judging others apparently would not get it done. Go on your way and do something better – if you are trully a Christian,…" If you don't want to have your statements judged by a harsh measure, then you need to become more gentle yourself.
Carol

It seems to me to be a mix in this. There is good and bad in every sector. Some televangelists have been taken down and rightfully so. These current ones under investigation are not falling so quickly. I think there is more to them than the others. I personally see the prosperity gospel as it has been called in the pages of scripture. But I have seen something else in all of this. Even if your increase and personal prosperity is entirely from God, rightly sourced, not fleeced off donations that belong to ministry projects, just what is going on now is reason not to engage in a lavish looking lifestyle. There is an appearance of evil and Paul said things that are lawful to you should not be allowed to be a stumbling block to others. People who head up organizations which take donations, especially churches and ministries, are subject to suspicion when they have extraordinary personal wealth. They may not be stealing it, but it has that inherent appearance. Not to hide things or live below the radar, but it seems sound judgment to not go to a certain level that draws unneeded attention. You can't please everyone or pander to everyone's opinions in your life and decisions, but using wisdom to avoid needless persecution seems in order. Lavish things just draw attention. I know some of these ministries closer up and they are sound and do much good. But my prayer is that they would be open to adjustments that would enhance the Gospel and their good work.
Wake-Up Call

I read the comments submitted and I am amazed that so many are willing to allow the enemy to distract them in this way. We, as believers must learn to stand for what is right and just, and stop being complacent about social matters concerning this Country. We are not all called to be peacemakers, we are all different parts of the same body and should not allow the enemy a foothold with division in the Church. The ministries under attack, teach "truth" and are a threat to the enemy and his jealous sinful nature. In my humble opinion, these ministries are held accountable by God and doing far more good than any who are trying to attack them. The Ministries selected for attack by Senator Grassley and his co-horts have already proven themselves above reproach and have taken the correct steps to hold government officials responsible to our laws and our Constitutional rights. Communism and dictatorships are not my first choice but if that is what some of you folks are looking for, there are plenty of Countries available for you to move to.

We, as children of God, the seed of Abraham…and citizens of the FREE Country of the United States of America…have an obligation to pay attention and search the motives of all who attempt to silence the Gospel. It does not matter what reasons are given or how the enemy disquises his accusations. He is the father of lies and a deceiver of many.

I have the right to choose my own Church, my own Pastor, my religious beliefs….as does every other citizen of this Country. I certainly do not trust the Senators judgement or his opinions on what I should or should not believe. His reputation and the company he keeps preceeds him, and they are known by their fruits. He and his comrads live like 'rock stars', while suppressing others, and he is certainly not qualified to make moral judgements/accusations on anyone, especially the annointed people of God. I pray that God opens his eyes and opens the eyes of the other politicians who are supposed to be representing 'the people', before it is too late for this Country.

Judging by some of the comments made on this blog, there are many of the belief that they must save me and other people with common sense, from ourselves…. Please take the log out of your own eye and stop throwing stones from glass houses… I am able, stable, Holy Spirit filled and can choose to make my own decisions based on The Word, my choices and beliefs. I do not need or want anyone else to make choices for me, based on what 'they' believe is best for me. I accept responsibility for my own choices, I fight for my right to choose life and try to help others choose life by shining light on the lies of the enemy and exposing the devils deception.

The fundamental differences in the opinions expressed herein seem to be based on whether or not a person has "the right to choose." I find it amazing that the one side spends millions to convince others that they have "the right to choose" to murder an unborn child, and at the same time tries to convince me that I don't have "the right to choose" my religious beliefs. They spend millions to convince others that it is okay and "for the greater good" to ""allow"" people "the right to choose" death over life by euthanasia, living wills, or suicide while at the same time telling me that I am not wise enough to make the decision to choose life over death, good over evil, and Jesus over satan. There are innocent lives being lost every day to abortion and forced euthanasia of the elderly and disabled poor. What is it going to take to wake people up to the fact that it is the devil who comes to steal, kill, and destroy?

This is nothing more than a smoke screen to cover the real (time sensitive) issues this Country faces right now. Why would anyone waste valuable time attacking leaders in the Christian community who have done nothing more than teach the truth? This attack is based on jealousy and it's motive is the attempt to destroy the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

You people who call yourselves Christians while casting your votes promoting the lies of 'death with dignity', freedom to choose to murder the unborn, and 'separation of Church and State', need to be exposed for who your employer and father really is, and repent….

You people who really are followers of Christ, should be on your knees, finding Gods will for your life and get busy doing "The Fathers Business."

I pray that people wake up BEFORE the election… those choosing death or money… over LIFE… with a vote, will be held accountable by God for their choice. It is not about the "party" anymore … please check voting records on life/death issues…and pray for Gods direction before casting your vote.

May God Bless America and may God Bless and continue to protect and defend the ministries standing for truth.
Fred

With all this being said, doesnt' anyone commenting know that what Grassley has asked for is not legal according to our tax laws. Do you want Grassley to come and ask you for documentation that involves personal info of your closest friends (as these requests ask for info of these ministries partners). Do you want personal communications you have with your church/pastor demanded given to the government. The fact is this is an illegal process even by the irs standards(who have given all these ministries a passing grade year end and year out). You can argue about all of these different points represented here, which are interesting, but they are irrevelant. You must start at the beginning, which is this is not only illegal, but can lead to illegal intrusions into your own life. Govenrment is suppose to be by the people, not to the people. If I want to give my money to a snake charmer on the corner, that is my right whether the snakes are really rubber or not.
http://www.inthatdayteachings.com Robert Winkler Burke

Indeed it appears Ole Anthony has a past that discredits him somewhat. But sometimes such discrediting allows a person the ability to do something – even something for God – that others won’t or can’t. In other words, why would any normal person with a house, an income, a retirement package and a family choose to confront deca-millionaires, centa-millionaires and billionaires who head non-profit orgs with hundred-million dollars per year opaque finances, structures and methods? Only a poor man who had intelligence , contacts and certain capabilities, ( i.e. Trinity Foundation,) and compassion for those harmed by ham-handed televangelists then could cry out in the wilderness in protest.

It is a brave thing to confront successful televangelists because they’ve got money. And if a televangelist thinks he or she needs more money because of confrontation, the televangelists can always ask for special funds from donors to pay for legal fees to beat down the confronter. So Anthony and kind are a brave lot, for this you must give them credit. Their criticism of wayward televangelism is sometimes valid, and valid in ways that are terrible in full meaning and measure.

Our Lord said agree with thine adversary quickly. (Matthew 6:25,26) Customers of a newspaper once complained to the printer that the ink rubbed off the paper onto their hands. Was the printer using perhaps a cheaper grade of ink? The printer replied, “I don’t use cheap ink. I use the cheapest I can find. Tell me where I can buy it cheaper, and I’ll buy it there.”

That the group bringing correction to normally uncorrectable televangelists may themselves also need correction is no surprise. Until we have no pride or problems, we must agree with our adversary. Anthony fed info to a US Senator and that Senator acted. The Senator said he had received complaints from donors. The Senator requested information from televangelists. When the truth is known about all this, one way or the other, the body of Christ will be improved… once hopes!
Deborah Hughes

Our Lord said agree with thine adversary quickly. (Matthew 6:25,26) WHAT?? What translation of the Bible are you reading? These verses are talking about worry. It isn't even close to what you wrote.
David

After reading the article: http://www.dallasobserver.com/2006-08-03/news/the-cult-of-ole/ and the facts pointing to Prime Time and Diane Sawyer being duly dubbed and discredited by using the Ole Anthony Cult to attack Bob Tilton and others, I wonder why would Senator Charles Grassly risk his reputation with 17 million United States Evangelical Bible Believing Christians and thus the High Office of the US Senate to be allowed to be used as another pawn deceived by Mr. Ole Anthony's obvious fabrications to build a tragic forum of attack against the Body of Christ – noting deception as the Ole's Cult's staple catering to a rabid media as the cult's main source and means of ill gotten income?
stevem

The senator himself appears ti have a narcisstic streak to him. He seems to relish his self appointed role be it with thi ministry or othger non profits . He seems to pretty much enjoy destroying peoples careers
Theresa Fletcher

This article is almost two years old. It would not matter how many people he gave the dirt on, if the preachers had nothing to hide. The tv reporters would have nothing to report on. We all know to well that preachers on TV to get up and say if you give a specific seed you will receive a blessing and they are misleading poor people.
william Hunt

People need hope in their lives and everyday living and to say that all t.v. preacher are hiding things or doing evil and making to much money. is not good. and makes all of the people that talk against them look small. if you dont like them then change the channel. ole is just a doe-doe bird. who wants in his heart to have a great ministry to exhalt himself. he is the devils hand puppet, tring to destroy honest God fearing t.v. preachers, we need to keep using the air waves to preach the truth, so even if some are in it for the money, the gospel is still being preached and God gets the glory and people are getting saved and healed, delievered from sin sickness and diseases. GOD BLESS ALL THE T.V. PREACHERS

P.S. Can you all send the t.v. preachers a love offering. and pray at God will forgive ole.
stevem

This is incoherent nonsense The ravning wolves in this context are the likes of Ole Anthony and yourself who repeat hearsay and innuendo with zero facts. Did the Apostle Paul not warn against receiving accusations against elders without solid evidence

I have been listening to televangelists for years and I am far from harmed, I mean we all have the ability to turn the channel hen something harmful comes on TV and as many televangelists have found out they are only as good as their last sermon
Ele

I actually turned to televangelists in desperaton after noticing some very disturbing behavior among the leadership of more than one local church I visited. I was reluctant at first to get involved with them since they have been slandered so much, but after carefully weighing the preaching I heard next to what I saw going on locally, I felt it was a good risk. That was nearly 15 years ago, and I have never regretted the decision. The teaching of these very evangelists being criticized are s much more solid Biblically than what I found locally, and I have no complaints about them taking my money or "swindling" me. In fact, I'm surprised no one has pointed out yet that Kenneth Copeland in particular never asks for money ever in his materials and even enourages listeners to question what he's preaching and choose somewhere else to send the money if we choose. You can download all of his hundreds of messages for free, get his magazine for free, his tapes at low-cost, go to his meetings for free. I consider whatever donation I make money that he earned for his good preaching. It's kind of amazing to say that they're just trying to get your money when that is the way they operate. If they were that avaracious, I'd expect them to nickel and dime you all the way, but they don't. I've had great results from their teachings, and in the meantime, the people here with the problems haven't gotten in trouble as far as I ever saw though the things going on with them were way more serious than these rather obscure, confusing tax issues that the average person doesn't even understand anyway.
KC Primm

Yes, and your greatest "misteak" is your lightly veiled, elitest "Protective" effort to be a self elected protector of God's poor, gullible, stupid, vulnerable people. (Usually, in the opinion of you and your elitist friends, that would include all believers). I am convinced that you think you are slipping one by us gullibles by pretending to be a believer.

Sorry, it's not working. We're not as stupid as you think, nor as helpless.
KC

"That televangelists have convinced you of their inability to fall, well that is kind of proof of their falling"

MORE EVIDENCE Mr. BURKE, that you know not what you are talking about and are simply Atheistically or Legalistically agenda driven.

Almost all of the Televangelists currently being persecuted by you and your elitist buddies are very free in exposing their human faults.

They stand on the accurate, full context, WORD OF GOD. But you and your sneaky, deceptive friends are at war with God. Sorry, but I lived for 30 years close to God hate central: SF Bay area. The sheep's clothing has become almost transparent for me at this point. You geniuses are only fooling yourselves. I know, I was once in your camp.

When Jesus said "You are of your father, the Devil", He didn't pull any punches and neither do I. Luckily, you can still repent and surrender and have a TRUE relationship with Jesus. Once you have the Holy Spirit within you, you will be able to more easily identify Satan coming from the Left AND the Right.
A2 BrewTay

Sounds a lot like Elliot Spitzer. Yet, now that his conflicts are revealed, the media won't turn on him because he satisfies their rabid desire for "dirt" against others while diminishing the perception of Christianity with his own behavior.
Are You Crazy?

"Only a poor man who had intelligence , contacts and certain capabilities, ( i.e. Trinity Foundation,) and compassion for those harmed by ham-handed televangelists then could cry out in the wilderness in protest."

No one has been harmed by televangelist. Statements like that are ridicules and poorly conceived. Even if someone gave all they could to a televangelist, he the televangelist didn't harm them. The person made the decision to give to them.
http://www.inthatdayteachings.com Robert Burke

Maybe I am crazy… to point out your second sentence misspells "ridiculous" as you attempt to use the word against my ability to conceive a posit. If it is true that no one has been harmed by a televangelist, then I must become one and perhaps we all must become one — so we never hurt anybody again. Our Lord warned us against ravening wolves, wolves who dressed in sheep's clothing. Anthony, for all his faults, tries to point out such ravening wolves. My friend, Jesus wanted you and me to be aware of the possibility that a false shepherd dines on gullible sheep. Just check Phil Cooke's previous blogs here for news of real damage some famous televangelists have done. That televangelists have convinced you of their inability to fall, well that is kind of proof of their falling. We all make misteaks, me included.
walrus

If you read the article from the Dallas Observer, and if what they say is true, then I'd take the televangelist over Ole Anthony any day. Misusing donated funds is bad enough, but controlling people's lives and spiritual abuse leaves a much deeper scar. Legalism and critical spirits seem to go hand in hand, and both also seem to have to control the people around them. The interesting thing is how the media love to use the Trinity Foundation for quotes and for digging up dirt, but never seem to want to take a look at Ole and his ministry. I doubt you'll see a 60 Minutes expose of the Trinity Foundation anytime soon.
http://lunarskeletons.blogspot.com Oengus Moonbones

I was noticing the oddness about Ole back in November.

Phil Cooke

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