What do you think?
Rate this book
Defining Deception: Freeing the Church from the Mystical-Miracle Movement
The global movement of mystical-miracle enthusiasts have put a modern face on historical heresies. Men and women posing as prophets and apostles make millions preying on the sick, poor, and emotionally fragile. Behind a veil of glamour, many self-proclaimed pastors mask their spiritual abuse with claims of special power from the Holy Spirit. Defining Deception pulls back the curtain to reveal the truth behind this lucrative industry. Written with a unique blend of theology, history, and personal experience, Costi Hinn and Anthony Wood have lovingly, yet sternly, exposed the mystical-miracle fraud in the hope that Christians will unite against those who have turned Jesus into a commodity. It is also a call to all Christians of good faith to help those trapped by these corrupt leaders rediscover the biblical Gospel of Christ. Every Christian is called to “earnestly contend for the faith” (Jude 3) even when it’s controversial—Defining Deception will equip Christians to do just that.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 8, 2018
316 people are currently reading
768 people want to read
About the author
Costi W. Hinn
8 books150 followersCosti W. Hinn is a pastor and author who is passionate about equipping Christians to boldly live out the gospel of Jesus Christ. His stand for truth and refutation of the prosperity gospel have been featured on CNN and in Christianity Today and in numerous other publications. He is married to the love of his life, Christyne, and they have three children.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
April 29, 2018
This book piqued my interest because it was co-authored by Costi Hinn - as in the nephew of Benny Hinn. In this book, Hinn and Wood address the history of the charismatic movement and then confront the error of the modern false teachers that are propelling the Third Wave Charismatic movement and New Apostolic Reformation - including people like Bill Johnson (Bethel Church) and Costi's own Uncle Benny.
A few of the practices covered in this book: being "slain in the Spirit", supposed healings (and if you aren't healed, it's your fault for not having enough faith), the use of "tongues" as a non-human "language", pronouncing people as new "apostles" (for a fee of course), and Johnson's "glory clouds" (complete with glitter and angel feathers). Hinn and Wood dissect where things started to go wrong and call people in these churches back to the Scriptures for the truth.
I found the appendices particularly helpful (so if you read this one, don't skip those!), especially Appendices 2 and 3 where they discuss the proper interpretation of Scriptures that are often mistakenly used to promote some of these errant teachings.
What I liked about this book was that it was NOT a prolonged bashing-session. Hinn and Wood present a very thoughtful and biblically solid critique of many of the excesses and unbiblical practices in these movements, as well as addressing the false teachings that are espoused by Johnson and Hinn and others. Costi Hinn has a lot of inside knowledge of Hinn and his "ministry" that he could have dumped out for everyone to see, but instead he uses this insider knowledge of the Word-Of-Faith and Third Wave movements as support for his very biblical arguments against these false signs and teachings. It was written from a very respectful, loving perspective, with the hope that Hinn and others will repent of their false teachings and turn to Jesus for mercy and the salvation of their souls.
That Jesus died and rose again, not for our earthly comfort but as a payment for our sins, so we could have spiritual healing and eternal life in Heaven someday when we trust in Jesus for our salvation - the true Gospel of Christ - was proclaimed throughout this book, while biblically challenging false teachers in a loving manner and calling heresy what it is. It was so well done. Highly recommend!
A few of the practices covered in this book: being "slain in the Spirit", supposed healings (and if you aren't healed, it's your fault for not having enough faith), the use of "tongues" as a non-human "language", pronouncing people as new "apostles" (for a fee of course), and Johnson's "glory clouds" (complete with glitter and angel feathers). Hinn and Wood dissect where things started to go wrong and call people in these churches back to the Scriptures for the truth.
I found the appendices particularly helpful (so if you read this one, don't skip those!), especially Appendices 2 and 3 where they discuss the proper interpretation of Scriptures that are often mistakenly used to promote some of these errant teachings.
What I liked about this book was that it was NOT a prolonged bashing-session. Hinn and Wood present a very thoughtful and biblically solid critique of many of the excesses and unbiblical practices in these movements, as well as addressing the false teachings that are espoused by Johnson and Hinn and others. Costi Hinn has a lot of inside knowledge of Hinn and his "ministry" that he could have dumped out for everyone to see, but instead he uses this insider knowledge of the Word-Of-Faith and Third Wave movements as support for his very biblical arguments against these false signs and teachings. It was written from a very respectful, loving perspective, with the hope that Hinn and others will repent of their false teachings and turn to Jesus for mercy and the salvation of their souls.
That Jesus died and rose again, not for our earthly comfort but as a payment for our sins, so we could have spiritual healing and eternal life in Heaven someday when we trust in Jesus for our salvation - the true Gospel of Christ - was proclaimed throughout this book, while biblically challenging false teachers in a loving manner and calling heresy what it is. It was so well done. Highly recommend!
April 3, 2018
Defining Deception is a book for today’s church. Throughout the history of the church there has always been manipulation and doctrinal deception.
I have read a lot on the NAR & on the Word of Faith movement - the authors of this book have done an excellent job of pleading for discernment from the followers (potential or otherwise) of this movement with compassion & understanding, but without pulling any of the necessary punches on its heretical & often blasphemous nature.
Defining Deception calls out the false teachers & false prophets of our day & their doctrines of demons boldly while also being both genuine & loving. Truth is clearly proclaimed, the gospel is preached, help is offered, & God is glorified by this work. The work is scholarly & intelligent but extremely readable for the layman.
Please note that this is not a continuationism vs. cessationism issue or a charismatic vs. non-charismatic issue - it is a sola scriptura issue.
The reader will also find the Appendix’s to be very helpful
I have read a lot on the NAR & on the Word of Faith movement - the authors of this book have done an excellent job of pleading for discernment from the followers (potential or otherwise) of this movement with compassion & understanding, but without pulling any of the necessary punches on its heretical & often blasphemous nature.
Defining Deception calls out the false teachers & false prophets of our day & their doctrines of demons boldly while also being both genuine & loving. Truth is clearly proclaimed, the gospel is preached, help is offered, & God is glorified by this work. The work is scholarly & intelligent but extremely readable for the layman.
Please note that this is not a continuationism vs. cessationism issue or a charismatic vs. non-charismatic issue - it is a sola scriptura issue.
The reader will also find the Appendix’s to be very helpful
December 6, 2018
I’m thankful for this book on so many levels and will be praying for Mr. Hinn!
I do want to say that a danger of coming out of one false teaching of excess could perhaps be to swing into a camp of another false teaching of dryness.
I had some red flags about so many glowing mentions of McArthur and Peters in the testimony section. No doubt I respect them for their desire to stick to scriptures and their work for the gospel, but Peters associates with the Pulpit & Pen group which I believe are also treading some shaky ground. Just be careful to not break free of one false teaching and exchange it for another, or to give men too much credit. The Lord delivered us in his mercy and deserves all the credit.
But the bottom line is, I am deeply thankful for this book and how the Lord will use it. God bless you.
I do want to say that a danger of coming out of one false teaching of excess could perhaps be to swing into a camp of another false teaching of dryness.
I had some red flags about so many glowing mentions of McArthur and Peters in the testimony section. No doubt I respect them for their desire to stick to scriptures and their work for the gospel, but Peters associates with the Pulpit & Pen group which I believe are also treading some shaky ground. Just be careful to not break free of one false teaching and exchange it for another, or to give men too much credit. The Lord delivered us in his mercy and deserves all the credit.
But the bottom line is, I am deeply thankful for this book and how the Lord will use it. God bless you.
February 26, 2021
I thought the book was fair assessment of the NAR ,word of faith, prosperity gospel. It's sad to see so many following fake preachers.
February 27, 2018
I have to admit, I never thought I'd own a book by someone associated with, let alone related to, the infamous faith-healer, Benny Hinn! "Defining Deception" is written by Anthony Wood and Costi Hinn, who worked with his uncle Benny for many years. This book documents the recent rise of the Word of Faith and New Apostolic Reformation movements (hereafter WOFNAR) and provides a bold, polemical, and biblical response to this aberrant movement and its incredibly pernicious influence within evangelicalism.
The book begins with an overview of the rather short, 100-year history of WOFNAR, or as the authors call it, the "mystical-miracle" movement. They highlight its founders and influential leaders (Branham, Kenyon, Hagin, Wigglesworth, Wagner, et al.) as well as the heretical doctrines at its core. Rather than focusing on prosperity gospel preachers who are now widely established as unorthodox, the book makes readers aware of many leaders in the mystical-miracle movement who have been gaining ground almost under the radar and in the shadow of the Word of Faith (prosperity gospel) movement, such as Bill Johnson, Todd White, Todd Bentley, and Heidi Baker.
As they move to the present day, the authors focus primarily on Bill Johnson of Bethel Church in Redding, California, because his popular ministry is a central hub for New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) teaching and is largely responsible for the proliferation of NAR ideas into the evangelical mainstream. It deals with the movement's modern-day "Apostles," the manipulative tactics employed by its leaders, the Christological and Pneumatological doctrines at its heretical core, and several other important issues. It also contains several appendices which include testimonies from those delivered from the mystical-miracle movement, being "Slain in the Spirit," speaking in tongues, and whether or not you can actually be healed by someone in the mystical-miracle movement.
The case against WOFNAR provided by Hinn and Wood in this book is not like typical responses to WOFNAR in two very important respects. First, it is presented in a loving, gentle, and winsome manner, coming from two people with firsthand experience, which is almost complete opposite approach from online discernment ministries and stereotypical "heresy hunters" with little or no credibility and compassion. Second, they carefully make a distinction between WOFNAR and the modern Pentecostal/charismatic/continuationist movement that largely remains within the bounds of historic, orthodox, Christianity. They make it very clear from the beginning that this book is NOT about the debate over the continuation/cessation of the sign gifts, but specifically about the WOFNAR movement and its extreme, heretical teachings that fall well beyond the bounds of orthodoxy.
"Defining Deception" is a timely work that is a welcome addition to the growing number of resources dealing with the WOFNAR movements. I can only pray for more books, essays, and resources from credible pastors and scholars that can provide serious and formidable interaction with WOFNAR and its heretical doctrines. While this book is a great start, there is still much more work to be done, more leaders to interact with (especially Bethel's Kris Vallotton and Shawn Bolz) and more heretical doctrines to discuss, like Todd White's perfectionism, Shawn Bolz's communication with the dead, and Kris Vallotton's ecclesiology, etc.
This is an excellent resource to give to friends, family, and church members who have been sucked into the WOFNAR movements.
The book begins with an overview of the rather short, 100-year history of WOFNAR, or as the authors call it, the "mystical-miracle" movement. They highlight its founders and influential leaders (Branham, Kenyon, Hagin, Wigglesworth, Wagner, et al.) as well as the heretical doctrines at its core. Rather than focusing on prosperity gospel preachers who are now widely established as unorthodox, the book makes readers aware of many leaders in the mystical-miracle movement who have been gaining ground almost under the radar and in the shadow of the Word of Faith (prosperity gospel) movement, such as Bill Johnson, Todd White, Todd Bentley, and Heidi Baker.
As they move to the present day, the authors focus primarily on Bill Johnson of Bethel Church in Redding, California, because his popular ministry is a central hub for New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) teaching and is largely responsible for the proliferation of NAR ideas into the evangelical mainstream. It deals with the movement's modern-day "Apostles," the manipulative tactics employed by its leaders, the Christological and Pneumatological doctrines at its heretical core, and several other important issues. It also contains several appendices which include testimonies from those delivered from the mystical-miracle movement, being "Slain in the Spirit," speaking in tongues, and whether or not you can actually be healed by someone in the mystical-miracle movement.
The case against WOFNAR provided by Hinn and Wood in this book is not like typical responses to WOFNAR in two very important respects. First, it is presented in a loving, gentle, and winsome manner, coming from two people with firsthand experience, which is almost complete opposite approach from online discernment ministries and stereotypical "heresy hunters" with little or no credibility and compassion. Second, they carefully make a distinction between WOFNAR and the modern Pentecostal/charismatic/continuationist movement that largely remains within the bounds of historic, orthodox, Christianity. They make it very clear from the beginning that this book is NOT about the debate over the continuation/cessation of the sign gifts, but specifically about the WOFNAR movement and its extreme, heretical teachings that fall well beyond the bounds of orthodoxy.
"Defining Deception" is a timely work that is a welcome addition to the growing number of resources dealing with the WOFNAR movements. I can only pray for more books, essays, and resources from credible pastors and scholars that can provide serious and formidable interaction with WOFNAR and its heretical doctrines. While this book is a great start, there is still much more work to be done, more leaders to interact with (especially Bethel's Kris Vallotton and Shawn Bolz) and more heretical doctrines to discuss, like Todd White's perfectionism, Shawn Bolz's communication with the dead, and Kris Vallotton's ecclesiology, etc.
This is an excellent resource to give to friends, family, and church members who have been sucked into the WOFNAR movements.
January 3, 2020
Could not put it down! Excellent book for anyone wishing to understand more about the prosperity gospel. The part I found particularly enlightening was the history of the movement itself and the history of some of the major players that founded the movement. It was well tied together and managed to be not only informative and educational but uplifting! I love the testimony section in the back and the constant theme throughout of going back to scripture!
April 26, 2021
A must read
This book is a critique of the New Apostolic Reformation movement, which includes the Word of faith , prosperity gospel, and other teachings that are not a part of Orthodox Christianity.
This book is a critique of the New Apostolic Reformation movement, which includes the Word of faith , prosperity gospel, and other teachings that are not a part of Orthodox Christianity.
May 7, 2019
Very helpful analysis of NAR theology!
May 1, 2018
This is an excellent book. I first heard of a guy named Benny Hinn when I was with a group of men in Southern California for a conference and we were hosted by a firefighter (who later lost his life fighting a fire), and the first evening we were in his home, he said, "You men ever heard of Benny Hinn?" We answered that we hadn't and he said, "You guys need watch this guy. He's crazy." We sat there watching Hinn and his crazy, demon generated antics. We repeatedly uttered, "No Way!" Over the years since, I have read much about Benny Hinn and others who fall into the False Teacher camp. Those things were very helpful. What makes "Defining Deception" equally, if not more, helpful is that one of the authors is Benny Hinn's own nephew who once was involved within the Hinn crusades. Yet, God in His infinite mercy and grace, saved Costi. One of the things that Costi and all others never did and never will hear within the crusades like Benny Hinn's is the true gospel, but through another avenue, Costi heard the gospel for the first time, was saved by Jesus, and soon after left the Benny Hinn crusades.
Now, years later, Costi and another pastor have come together to write a very important book, exposing the false teaching of, not only Benny Hinn, but more so, of Bill Johnson, pastor of Bethel Church in Redding. This books is critical to read because one gets a glimpse behind the scenes of the corruption found within the NAR (New Apostolic Reformation)/Third Wave movement.
I find this book to be a very valuable read for any who are concerned about the false teaching propagated by Johnson, C. Peter Wagner, Benny Hinn, etc., etc. It's really worth your time to read through this very informative book.
Now, years later, Costi and another pastor have come together to write a very important book, exposing the false teaching of, not only Benny Hinn, but more so, of Bill Johnson, pastor of Bethel Church in Redding. This books is critical to read because one gets a glimpse behind the scenes of the corruption found within the NAR (New Apostolic Reformation)/Third Wave movement.
I find this book to be a very valuable read for any who are concerned about the false teaching propagated by Johnson, C. Peter Wagner, Benny Hinn, etc., etc. It's really worth your time to read through this very informative book.
September 21, 2019
People will assume that because one of the co-authors is Benny Hinn's nephew, the book will be worth reading as a critique of certain aspects of the Charismatic movement. Unfortunately, it is not. First, it is polemical in the worst way, substituting lurid quotations and stories for serious theological examination. Second, it--and seemingly every book of its kind--is written by Dispensationalists who are radically cessationist and convinced the rapture is going to happen any day now, so anyone of a Reformed persuasion will find the overall theological perspective to be disagreeable. I'm still waiting to see a serious critique of this movement that is sophisticated, but this one does not live up to that standard.
February 18, 2018
Defining Deception calls out the false teachers and false prophets of our day and their doctrines of demons boldly while also being both genuine and loving, calling these false wolves to repentance and being winsome. Truth is proclaimed, the gospel is preached, help is offered, and God is glorified by this work. It is clear that the authors are well trained and learned pastors with the pastors heart. The work is scholarly and intelligent but extremely readable for the layman. A must have book for our times.
September 22, 2019
It was an engaging read and I do believe it is always good to read books that you don’t fully agree with. But I hate that as Christians we devour each other and that is the focus of this book. I would rather spend my time reading and thinking about how to immerse those around me in the love of God rather than fixating on how those around me aren’t doing that exact thing in the way I would.
July 2, 2019
This book deserves a five star rating. I recently left a charismatic/prosperity preaching/health and wealth church. I haven’t met anyone in person who has been thru what my husband and myself have in the church. To quote the book we had “charismatic PTSD”. So we are reading as much as we can on the subject and devouring sound doctrine at the same time! It’s mentioned in the book that it’s almost taboo to even speak against the charismatic church and the damage they are doing. Which is what we have encountered. This book helped me see and understand that we aren’t alone. Costi and Anthony did a wonderful job on this book. Highly recommend!
May 15, 2024
TWO PASTORS CRITIQUE BETHEL CHURCH AND THE NEW APOSTOLIC REFORMATION
Authors and pastors Costi W. Hinn (who is Benny Hinn’s nephew) and Anthony G. Wood wrote in the Preface to this 2018 book, “Any man who dares to raise the charge of unintentional or intentional heresy must do so with humility and biblical evidence, ultimately requesting others within the true circle of Christian belief to carefully consider the assessment. And this is why we’ve written this book, requesting that every Christian examine the teaching and conduct of the Third Wave/New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) movement… Bethel Church founded the globally recognized and mainstream worship brands (and bands) of Bethel Music and Jesus Culture. Our goal is to give readers the information needed to discern whether Bethel’s teaching falls within the bounds of Christian orthodoxy or harms the advance of the gospel of Jjesus Christ… This book is not intended as a refutation against those who consider themselves Pentecostal… Second, a question for Scriptural clarity does not need to be hostile… Third, defending truth is a clear biblical mandate… Last, in the spirit of Matthew 5, we DID attempt to speak with leaders of Bethel Church but were refused… please know that our desire is to see the people of Bethel saved and appropriately living out their Christian faith according to what the Bible teaches.”
They explain, “Biblically speaking, a miracle is an observable phenomenon delivered powerfully … by God directly or indirectly through an authorized agent whose extraordinary character captures the immediate attention … of the viewer, points to something beyond the phenomenon… whose source can be attributed to no one else but God.” (Pg. 7) They continue, “we must immediately admit that many, if not most, of the miracles done by modern healers or self-styled prophets are not really miracles at all. These men and women are not stopping the sun, walking on water, turning water into wine, or even instantly healing a lifelong ailment. Even if they are infusing some kind of healing, it is simply God’s providential and precious timing based on prayer.” (Pg. 9)
They note, “the truth about [Kenneth] Hagin’s ministry only became visible to some near the end of his life when he was exposed as a fraud. In addition to his unbiblical teaching, countless writings were plagiarized… Hagin plagiarized the work of E.W. Kenyon. Interestingly, Hagin often referred to Kenyon’s work as direct revelations from God…. Regardless of Hagin’s motivations for passing off Kenyon’s work as divine revelation, his plagiarism is clear evidence that his ministry was based upon deceit.” (Pg. 41-42)
They recount, “In the early 1980s, C. Peter Wagner (1930-2016) was a professor at Fuller Theological Seminary who believed modern day signs and wonders could be wielded by all Christians. He helped design a course … called ‘Signs and Wonders’ and taught this with his friend John Wimber (1937-1997). It was during this time, at the pinnacle the Charismatic Renewal era, that Wagner coined the term ‘Third Wave’ as the next big thing to hit the church… it appears that Wagner and Wimber started off with a dream to recapture the early experiences that accompanied the apostles at Pentecost, all the while hoping to bring order to the unbiblical mayhem that had swept through Charismatic Renewal. However… rebuilding a home on the same faulty foundation only delays the impending collapse… and the two men ended up on opposite sides of their own Third Wave dream.” (Pg. 49-50)
They observe, “Wagner’s unaccredited institution promotes the work of … self-proclaimed linguist, Brian Simmons, who created a unique Bible translation for the NAR. What better way to manipulate and control follower then to have your very own version of the Bible?... This group claims to bring the emotion back into the Bible … The NAR translation isn’t just paraphrasing or modernizing the Bible, it’s a rewrite that claims to be from God.” (Pg. 54)
One of Costi’s other uncles told him, “Do not speak about Uncle Benny, he is the Lord’s anointed.’ … through blood is said to be thicker than water, many of us understand that Christ’s blood transcends even the deepest familial bonds.” (Pg. 59) Later, he adds, “In 2014, one family member and I had a serious disagreement when I pleaded with them to stay away from Bethel’s School of Supernatural Ministry. Another family member called me ‘full of hate’ … stating that ‘doctrine had ruined me.’” (Pg. 77)
They report, “With over thirty claims of the dead being raised and countless other claims of miracles and healings, ABC News decided to investigate the revival in hopes of finding just one verifiable case to report. Despite [Todd] Bentley’s promise to deliver evidence of the healings, ABC was given no such documentation. After the story of his deception broke, Bentley stepped down from leading the revival and soon after there was news of a scandalous affair with his ministry mistress.” (Pg. 69)
They summarize, “We pray this book has clearly defined the deception of the mystical-miracle movement by using Bill Johnson and Bethel Church as our illustration. Our goal is that all true Christians will unite in demanding their repentance and resolve to protect the pure bride of Christ. We hope those caught in this deception will now find freedom and healing in the real Gospel of Jesus Christ.” (Pg. 118)
This book will interest those seeking critiques of the New Apostolic Reformation.
Authors and pastors Costi W. Hinn (who is Benny Hinn’s nephew) and Anthony G. Wood wrote in the Preface to this 2018 book, “Any man who dares to raise the charge of unintentional or intentional heresy must do so with humility and biblical evidence, ultimately requesting others within the true circle of Christian belief to carefully consider the assessment. And this is why we’ve written this book, requesting that every Christian examine the teaching and conduct of the Third Wave/New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) movement… Bethel Church founded the globally recognized and mainstream worship brands (and bands) of Bethel Music and Jesus Culture. Our goal is to give readers the information needed to discern whether Bethel’s teaching falls within the bounds of Christian orthodoxy or harms the advance of the gospel of Jjesus Christ… This book is not intended as a refutation against those who consider themselves Pentecostal… Second, a question for Scriptural clarity does not need to be hostile… Third, defending truth is a clear biblical mandate… Last, in the spirit of Matthew 5, we DID attempt to speak with leaders of Bethel Church but were refused… please know that our desire is to see the people of Bethel saved and appropriately living out their Christian faith according to what the Bible teaches.”
They explain, “Biblically speaking, a miracle is an observable phenomenon delivered powerfully … by God directly or indirectly through an authorized agent whose extraordinary character captures the immediate attention … of the viewer, points to something beyond the phenomenon… whose source can be attributed to no one else but God.” (Pg. 7) They continue, “we must immediately admit that many, if not most, of the miracles done by modern healers or self-styled prophets are not really miracles at all. These men and women are not stopping the sun, walking on water, turning water into wine, or even instantly healing a lifelong ailment. Even if they are infusing some kind of healing, it is simply God’s providential and precious timing based on prayer.” (Pg. 9)
They note, “the truth about [Kenneth] Hagin’s ministry only became visible to some near the end of his life when he was exposed as a fraud. In addition to his unbiblical teaching, countless writings were plagiarized… Hagin plagiarized the work of E.W. Kenyon. Interestingly, Hagin often referred to Kenyon’s work as direct revelations from God…. Regardless of Hagin’s motivations for passing off Kenyon’s work as divine revelation, his plagiarism is clear evidence that his ministry was based upon deceit.” (Pg. 41-42)
They recount, “In the early 1980s, C. Peter Wagner (1930-2016) was a professor at Fuller Theological Seminary who believed modern day signs and wonders could be wielded by all Christians. He helped design a course … called ‘Signs and Wonders’ and taught this with his friend John Wimber (1937-1997). It was during this time, at the pinnacle the Charismatic Renewal era, that Wagner coined the term ‘Third Wave’ as the next big thing to hit the church… it appears that Wagner and Wimber started off with a dream to recapture the early experiences that accompanied the apostles at Pentecost, all the while hoping to bring order to the unbiblical mayhem that had swept through Charismatic Renewal. However… rebuilding a home on the same faulty foundation only delays the impending collapse… and the two men ended up on opposite sides of their own Third Wave dream.” (Pg. 49-50)
They observe, “Wagner’s unaccredited institution promotes the work of … self-proclaimed linguist, Brian Simmons, who created a unique Bible translation for the NAR. What better way to manipulate and control follower then to have your very own version of the Bible?... This group claims to bring the emotion back into the Bible … The NAR translation isn’t just paraphrasing or modernizing the Bible, it’s a rewrite that claims to be from God.” (Pg. 54)
One of Costi’s other uncles told him, “Do not speak about Uncle Benny, he is the Lord’s anointed.’ … through blood is said to be thicker than water, many of us understand that Christ’s blood transcends even the deepest familial bonds.” (Pg. 59) Later, he adds, “In 2014, one family member and I had a serious disagreement when I pleaded with them to stay away from Bethel’s School of Supernatural Ministry. Another family member called me ‘full of hate’ … stating that ‘doctrine had ruined me.’” (Pg. 77)
They report, “With over thirty claims of the dead being raised and countless other claims of miracles and healings, ABC News decided to investigate the revival in hopes of finding just one verifiable case to report. Despite [Todd] Bentley’s promise to deliver evidence of the healings, ABC was given no such documentation. After the story of his deception broke, Bentley stepped down from leading the revival and soon after there was news of a scandalous affair with his ministry mistress.” (Pg. 69)
They summarize, “We pray this book has clearly defined the deception of the mystical-miracle movement by using Bill Johnson and Bethel Church as our illustration. Our goal is that all true Christians will unite in demanding their repentance and resolve to protect the pure bride of Christ. We hope those caught in this deception will now find freedom and healing in the real Gospel of Jesus Christ.” (Pg. 118)
This book will interest those seeking critiques of the New Apostolic Reformation.
April 14, 2020
This book is the best one I have read to-date on the pitfalls of what the author labels the "Mystical-Miracle" movement. It includes the Charismatic movement, the health and wealth gospel, and the New Apostolic Reformation. While Hinn distinguishes between them, he correctly notes that they are all interconnected. He uses the ministry of Bill Johnson of Bethel as an extreme example, making it clear that many other mystical-miracle ministries have similar traits. He writes with humility and from personal experience with the ministry of his uncle, Benny Hinn. The appendices of the book are just as helpful as the main body. He shares the testimonies of others who have been freed from the movement, answers common questions, clarifies Biblical tongues, debunks the phenomenon of being slain in the Spirit, then addresses the issue of whether or not a person can be healed through a false teacher. Having spent four years at a Charismatic university many years ago, I can relate to what he saying and the dangers he is identifying. I recommend this book highly. While other books of this nature may paint with broad brushes and employ strawman arguments, Hinn's approach is solid. If you have any involvement with the confusion of the "mystical-miracle movement," you'll want to have this book in your library.
August 1, 2019
Defining Deception is a great crash course into the basics behind the large problems that exist within the quickly expanding New Apostolic Reformation. A brief historical look at the founders of the ideology behind this movement is given at the beginning. Following that, the authors graciously and lovingly rebuke the movement with their experiences having having been inside of it. Great attention is given to exposing the false gospel of the NAR movement by exploring as a survey case study, Bill Johnson. Bethel Church as well as its extended ministries are examined in light of what the Bible teaches and the authors lovingly plead for salvation of those taken captive by the NAR movement. Also given are testimonials of people grateful to have been saved out of this movement and thanks to solid biblical expositors.
For a more in depth book on the same topic, but with a broader historical context. I recommend checking out Strange Fire: The Danger of Offending the Holy Spirit with Counterfeit Worship
For a more in depth book on the same topic, but with a broader historical context. I recommend checking out Strange Fire: The Danger of Offending the Holy Spirit with Counterfeit Worship
January 25, 2023
Defining Deception takes a deeper look into the Word of Faith/NAR movements. I was really intrigued by how the authors called out false teaching and false profits.
I didn’t realize how many larger, well known “Christian ministry’s” associate with the Word of Faith or NAR movements.
The book gives a lot of context, and uses factual and biblical evidence to support its reasonings on why the Word of Faith/ NAR movements are dangerous. Adding in this evidence is great, but in some spots it felt repetitive, which made the book slower to get through at times. The appendix’s are a great resource as well.
Overall, it provides a great outlook of what we should be looking for in our church’s, and to be mindful of the people we surround ourselves with.
I didn’t realize how many larger, well known “Christian ministry’s” associate with the Word of Faith or NAR movements.
The book gives a lot of context, and uses factual and biblical evidence to support its reasonings on why the Word of Faith/ NAR movements are dangerous. Adding in this evidence is great, but in some spots it felt repetitive, which made the book slower to get through at times. The appendix’s are a great resource as well.
Overall, it provides a great outlook of what we should be looking for in our church’s, and to be mindful of the people we surround ourselves with.
June 13, 2020
A much needed book. The plague of false teachers like Bill Johnson, Benny Hinn, Todd White, and a myriad of others is spreading like a wildfire. "Defining Deception" offers a clear critique of the Bethel movement. The strength of the critique is the fact that it comes from someone who used to be an insider. Despite the break with the false teaching and practice the authors remain gracious and loving towards those who are stuck in this fleshly worldview of miracles and prosperity.
The book is easy to read with plenty of examples that illustrate the big theological arguments discussed by the authors.
The book is easy to read with plenty of examples that illustrate the big theological arguments discussed by the authors.
December 9, 2023
interesting read
The authors are definitely coming from a conservative position regarding orthodoxy and doctrine. There are many good points in the book. I find it a little too conservatively biased because I am charismatic, but am completely aware of the many deceptions that are alive and well in many of the charismatic/hyper-charismatic movements. It is well worth reading, but read other perspectives as well to get a complete picture of the deceptions in the churches. There are several other good books and papers written about The Passion (translation, which is more of a flowery paraphrase).
The authors are definitely coming from a conservative position regarding orthodoxy and doctrine. There are many good points in the book. I find it a little too conservatively biased because I am charismatic, but am completely aware of the many deceptions that are alive and well in many of the charismatic/hyper-charismatic movements. It is well worth reading, but read other perspectives as well to get a complete picture of the deceptions in the churches. There are several other good books and papers written about The Passion (translation, which is more of a flowery paraphrase).
March 11, 2018
Stark and revealing
Thank you To the authors for putting themselves on the line before God to expose the corruption and deception pervasive in the church today. My own church suffered a split because of Bill Johnson’s influence, Nar, Third Wave, Word of Faith movement, seven mountain mandate, etc. we were so broken many of us could not even read scripture or sing worship songs until the grief began to wane. Even nearly a year after, we have remnants still of the grief because we were so fractured by this deceptive theology. Thank you Costi and Anthony, I needed this!!
Thank you To the authors for putting themselves on the line before God to expose the corruption and deception pervasive in the church today. My own church suffered a split because of Bill Johnson’s influence, Nar, Third Wave, Word of Faith movement, seven mountain mandate, etc. we were so broken many of us could not even read scripture or sing worship songs until the grief began to wane. Even nearly a year after, we have remnants still of the grief because we were so fractured by this deceptive theology. Thank you Costi and Anthony, I needed this!!
April 13, 2018
I could relate to most of what is in this book, as the Lord rescued me from the Word of Faith movement in early 2005. The history of the many famous false teachers from throughout the 20th and 21st centuries was very enlightening. As a charismatic I had heard what a "great man" Smith Wigglesworth was. Little did I know that he was violent in hitting and kicking people while "praying" for them, just like Todd Bentley does today. This book gives true believers a solid reference to use when friends or family who are caught up in the Word of Faith heresy/scam question them.
November 20, 2018
Phenomenal book
If you are a believer (Christian), regardless of your current and/or past experience with the Charismatic Movement, this book is a must read. It is a clear biblical (hermeneutical) account of the "demonic" deception running rampant through its' church congregations throughout the world. Costi Hinn's deliverance and testimony is a Godsend for other would-be seekers caught in the clutches of the Charismatic Movement's diabolical deception. This book is near prophetic.
If you are a believer (Christian), regardless of your current and/or past experience with the Charismatic Movement, this book is a must read. It is a clear biblical (hermeneutical) account of the "demonic" deception running rampant through its' church congregations throughout the world. Costi Hinn's deliverance and testimony is a Godsend for other would-be seekers caught in the clutches of the Charismatic Movement's diabolical deception. This book is near prophetic.
August 30, 2020
I understand now why many have concerns with Mr. Hinn and his new stance on miracles and spirituality. He has gone from being associated with a false prophet and fake miracles to almost completely denouncing miracles and healing can be for today. The key point should be everything done is for God's glory and His will. I believe he needs to take a second glance at what the scriptures really say and remove the need to "call out" others and their movement. Although important, I was seeking to know more what the Word says in a theological study.
September 5, 2018
Really good read...I read about Costi Hinn (nephew of Benny Hinn) and wanted to find out more about his history and involvement with the prosperity health and wealth movement. Very informative, instructive and engaging. Costi was converted to Christ while studying the Bible during that time...He is now a gospel-centered reformed pastor...He carefully corrects the errors of the health/wealth prosperity and the NAR with the Truth of the Gospel.
December 1, 2018
This was a much needed book for this post modern church age. With compassionate boldness, Costi Hinn calls out the fake, man-centered prosperity gospel and its proponents and offers a passionate plea to repent and trust Christ. The only knock that I have against the book is that I was really wanting to know more about the behind the scenes of Benny Hinn and his “ministry” from an eye witness account. Costi barely even addresses the issue. Overall a great read.
January 5, 2019
Great book comparing the Bible, what it says and the biblical standards against the New Apostolic Reformation and their unbiblical and sometimes outright deceptive practices. It shows the teachings and practices of some of the main players in this movement, especially focusing on Bill Johnson and Bethel Church in Reading, CA, less than 2 hours from the congregation I pastor. Great Read, one I cant recommend enough!
March 21, 2019
EVERY Christian should read this!! There is nothing new under the sun... Educate yourself so that you don't fall prey to the hollow philosophies that keep being re-packed and circled back around. This book gives an excellent explanation of the current "New Apostolic Reformation" theology creeping into mainstream Protestantism today by way of Bethel Church, International House of Prayer, and more... Must read.
July 9, 2019
This book, co-written by Cost Hinn (Benny's nephew) takes a unique look at what is popularly known as The New Apostolic Reformation, which emerged mainly among Third Wave Pentecostals in the 1990s. Hinn and Wood, in this book, take a long hard look at this phenomenon, which claims, among other things that clouds of gold glitter falls from the ceiling during their worship. Not to mention a belief in restored Apostles.
The key figure is Bill Johnson, senior pastor of Bethel Church in Redding, California, who is a little overemphasized being referred to over 200 times, in this 200-page book.
The book is otherwise well-written and informative. It is also a helpful analysis of the charismatic movement and its development
The key figure is Bill Johnson, senior pastor of Bethel Church in Redding, California, who is a little overemphasized being referred to over 200 times, in this 200-page book.
The book is otherwise well-written and informative. It is also a helpful analysis of the charismatic movement and its development
February 12, 2020
False Teachers?
It continues to amaze me how various strains of the Church perpetually malign each other. This book promises to be objective and constructive while falling into the same old rhetoric, displaying the unfortunate tendencies of attacking those whom we disagree with. While informative in certain areas, it was very biased in presenting reformed theological viewpoints as THE historical interpretations of the church.
It continues to amaze me how various strains of the Church perpetually malign each other. This book promises to be objective and constructive while falling into the same old rhetoric, displaying the unfortunate tendencies of attacking those whom we disagree with. While informative in certain areas, it was very biased in presenting reformed theological viewpoints as THE historical interpretations of the church.
July 13, 2020
Hinn and Wood have taken a balanced deep-dive into the faith healing/name it claim it/new apostolic reformation movement with the primary aim of informing believers and equipping them against false teaching in the 21st Century. Not a smear campaign that leans on empty rhetoric or personal experience (though incorporating personal experience!), but highly researched and biblically-backed, this is a truly useful and informative read for the believer of any background.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews