Theology absolutely matters! Just prayed for you, Mr. Friel; may God continue through His Holy Spirit to keep you strong, unwavering and always abounding in His work for His glory.
The more I listen, my heart swells with gratitude that Jesus would take me from readings like this and turn me toward sound teachers and the true Gospel. I was so lost. But now I'm found. ❤️ Thank you, Wretched, for being a reliable, safe resource for the children of Christ. ❤️
Todd is not a sound teacher he is a FALSE TEACHER go watch the youtube channel HERALDS FOR THE KING and he had a conversation with todd and Todd does not know the bible and he is leading you astray from the TRUTH
I was just thinking the same thing....... Thank you Jesus for giving me the truth through real men, preaching, and women teaching the word of God. thank you Wretched, we hear you and love you.
Sadly, I fell for the lure of Rick Warren is one of his “purpose driven churches” in Colorado. Thankfully, my husband saw through it and, eventually, removed the blinders from my eyes. I’m so grateful for God’s mercy and love for showing me the truth! 🙏🏼
When Rick Warren's book was out years ago our Pastor suggested the church to use ,'The purpose driven life', as Bible study as well. I had mixed feelings about this... Because then as a growing Christian, the Bible was the Best book I read, it had and continues to have a powerful impact in my life. And in my mind I refused to have another book by some random person from "America" to guide me through my relationship with Jesus my Savior. And not surprisingly it just fizzed out over time.
Toddddddd, not only are you one of the most accurate apologist for God’s Word, but also one of the most creative, inspiring and humorous I’ve ever listened to. Thank you, brother, for your ministry and today’s exposures of false teachings!!!
I love this. I'm learning the Bible more. Would you say you're generally very knowledgeable about all the books? Does the Lord remind you of something you've already read, or something newer to you?
About 3 years ago, I found a Bible teacher, who knew rightly dividing the word of truth! When he got to Hebrews 1, it took him an hour, bouncing all around the King James, to show what that first word of Hebrews 1:1 really is! That word was God! I got hooked, hours a day, study! What he taught, was exactly what Pastor John MacArthur preached! That led to you Todd, as well as Justin Peters, Phil Johnson! I can’t wait to start everyday, seeing what the Lord Jesus, is going to reveal that day, in study, of the king James only! You have a great gift Todd, as does anyone who knows 2nd Timothy 2:15, Ephesians 2:8&9, 1st Corinthians 15:1-4! I love my Lord and Savior! God Bless you all!
That's awesome! I used to attend a church that was so light on scripture and my first year then I started to listen to Pastor John MacArthur. Was a blessing from God helping me see what expository preaching was! If I could recommend any resource to any christian it would be Ariel ministries. Dr. Arnold Fruchtenbaum is a Messianic Jew and does his studies through a jewish perspective, and wow it really helps understand the bible so much better.
@Susan Throop The elect are those who God foreknew and have been chosen by God before the foundation of the world. If you are a Christian, one who has opened their heart, mind and soul to the Spirit of God (aka the Holy Spirit), your spirit being revivified and sharing the temple (your body) with Him, then you are the redeemed of the Lord and His elect. "All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and whoever comes to Me I will never cast out. For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will but the will of Him who sent Me. And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that I should lose nothing of all that He has given Me, but raise it up on the last day. For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in Him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.” John 6:37-40 ESV "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works." Titus2:11-14 ESV
Watch Les Fedick and Truth Time Radio on UA-cam to understand how we have to rightly divide," the two separate gospels. We divide our gospel of the grace of God from Israel's gospel of the kingdom. II Timothy 2:15, Ephesians 1:13-14.
Yes, 100%! I've lost count of how many times I've been informed I was being a hypocrite and unchristian because "Jesus said do not judge." It's always whenever you counter ideas and their consequences such as these espoused in these books. For the record, Jesus also told us to judge with "righteous judgement" in John 7:24.
I believe to not judge others is to not judge non believers because they know no different. On the other hand, if my brother in the church who is a believer, yet he struggles with an addiction, that is when i believe we judge "in love" so to they turn from sin....
Todd and team - so well done, as always! Speaking truth in a time of bountiful lies will gain much scorn - and blessed be that scorn. Thank you for all you do!
I remember reading the prayer of Jebez, shortly after I got saved a little over twenty years ago. And must admit that I jumped in the deep end with both feet. Thank God, that His word puts us back on the straight and narrow.
Thank you. I've had a few of these books at one point or other in my walk. The more of the Bible I read, the more of these books I threw out, until I just stopped even looking at them. I encourage anyone who wants to find God and get to know Him to read the Bible. His words are truth and the truth does indeed set you free.
The quality of this video is something to be admired. I've been a longtime listener (since The Way of the Master days) and I just want to give kudos to the team for their efforts. Thank you for this kind of video. Very helpful. It's scary how many Christian women like "Jesus Calling". Poor theology and discernment.
If you have sex before marriage you have sinned towards God. And if you sinned towards God you must genuinely repent of that sin. Someone who is in Christ does not like sining towards God deliberately.
I bought the Jesus Calling book when someone told me it was good. I read the first 2 pages and promptly threw it in the trash! Only Jesus speaks for Himself! Thank you for looking out for everyone!
I read The Purpose Driven Life alongside my church and I got to the part where he talked about heavenly rewards and how God sees every little thing you do and evaluates you when you go up into heaven. The amount of pressure and dread I felt when I read that was insane. And it's only recently that I started to realize how that kind of mindset is antithetical towards the entire point of the Gospel and why we do what we do. We shouldn't be doing good works for rewards in Heaven, we should do so because we love God and want to save others. While I imagine there is some nuggets of truth to what he wrote, I hate the idea of trying to save people so I can be "rewarded". Saving someone *is* the reward. This "You" centered ideology the author and the others push is self-defeating at best and corrosive at worst. If I get special rewards up in Heaven for whatever reason, great! I'd be honored to have our Heavenly Father give them to me, but they aren't the reward. He is.
Years ago I was given a copy of The Purpose Driven Life. Told that it would change my life. I read the first chapter several times but I couldn't seem to read past that first chapter for some reason. I ended up throwing the book away.
Yeah, I was given one, too and barely read it, too. It seems like it had some quotes from other religions and philosophies besides just Christianity and scripture in it, too, but I could be wrong on that. Anyway, I don't even know what happened to my copy of it.
I used to own a number of these 'christian' books, especially on dating and relationships. But rather than being encouraging, they made me feel worse! So I took them down to my local skip and left them there.
3:19 sex before marriage IS A SIN and every real Christian should feel ashamed of sinning against his father. Repentance is needed and a profound self examination too
The Shack always gave me the creeps, but I admit that the Prayer of Jabez was promoted by the church I was attending at the time and I fell into that. Didn't take long for the Lord to guide me outta there!
I love the “heaven tourism” comment. There is a plethora of people claiming to have been to heaven many of whom have mutually contradictory testimony and unscriptural. Everyone of these books had an odor about them that I knew was not the perfume of Christ.
Left my progressive, seeker sensitive church 12 years ago and sadly to say, have read most of these books. Many of them very destructive. Since then I've come to true saving faith and go to a biblically sound church. All glory to King Jesus!
I read "The Shack" in rehab of all places....I will say it did make me thirsty for God's Word. I started picking up my Bible more and eventually found a Pastor Macarthur video on YT....so I guess I have both of them to thank for helping me learn about the Gospel. I have come such a long way from that time all Glory to God.
Its amazing what God can use. I read many of these books but all along the way I was reading my bible and praying for God to reveal to me the truth of who He is. And he was faithful to do it!
Even if others don't like it, GOD can use His Word or messages shared by others to encourage us, the Shack was a beautiful story of God's love , and no GOD is not a woman but He understands both men and women and comforts us when we need it. JESUS Calling is from Young's hearts conversations with Him and Him talking to us and she uses GODs Word. Devotions are an added way to share His love
@@laurasilverstone9735 It's not a matter of liking the book. I enjoyed the book. I completely agree that God can and does use whatever means He sees fit to call to people. But I'm concerned with your affirmation of Jesus Calling. Jesus Calling was written by, in the authors own account a type of automatic writing which is the same as tarot cards and mysticism. We have the Bible. We have all the Word of God in those 66 chapters. If what she was hearing was truly from God, shouldn't it be included in the Bible? Yes, Biblical devotionals can and do encourage and can be an asset to prayer and study... notice I said Biblical. I'm not trying to imply that pastors or authors can't ever add antidotal aspects to their sermons or literature, it's necessary to keep people's attention sometimes but it shouldn't be the focus. The Word of God should ALWAYS be the focus. I pray that you will put those books away and keep your Bible the complete focus. I would also suggest checking out Pastor Justin Peters who does an excellent presentation on all of this that you can find here on YT called "Clouds without Water." All blessings to you.
18:15 "It is my deep conviction that anybody can be won to Christ if you discover the key to his or her heart." Mr. Warren, allow me to acquaint you with the words of the Christ you believe people can be thus won to: "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day." (John 6:44).
I appreciate your ministry Mr. Friel. You teach people to rightly divide the truths of scripture. And how to think biblically. I also love witness Wednesday. Its such an encouragement for how to engage with people.
If people spent the same amount of time studying their Bibles as they spent reading many of these books they would be better Christians and better people. God's word was given to humanity as the totality of His special, divine revelation.
Thanks Todd. Sad to say that I only read one of those books as our Pastor was starting to take us in a seeker sensitive direction. It was stopped because people in the congregation were concerned. He also ended up stepping down because of moral issue. Bible number one followed by those who have gone on before us like Bunyan, Spurgeon, Ryle, Torrey. John MacArthur and R C Sproul were my main reads. I remember going into a Christian book store in the 90’s reading the covers of all the best sellers that were no more that self help and how to be successful. I went to my section where all the old authors of the past were to find some healthy reading. I haven’t changed my diet. Again thank you for a quality discernment ministry as I’m concerned about a few you tubers who I feel could learn how to do this better from you and Justin Peters.
i would not take part in any segregated Bible study. The fact that they want to impose segregation on their activity is a warning sign that there's something wrong going on there, in the minds of those who segregate. Brothers and sisters do not need to be segregated. They are not even segregated in any natural family. The Christian family should be more spiritual than a natural family, therefore segregation is even more inappropriate in the church.
I buy these books for cheap at my local thrift store. I specifically look for anything by Joel Osteen...Rick Warren...and specifically for titles like...the secret, the shack, any and all the heavenly tourism books.. Because I have a small business, and I need extremely cheap, trash books that I bring home and gut them...I make handmade journals..and I need those heavy book boards to make them...turning trash into something lovely. We enjoy nice bonfires in the fall/winter...so the gutted paper either goes for kindling...or when i have a custom paper order i turn all those trash paper inserts into pulp...and make new hand pressed paper for my customer. Really enjoyed the video...new subscriber
I understand you needing cheap book covers for your business, but could I encourage you to reconsider the books you use. Firstly, by buying these books (even from thrift) it looks to those stores that these books are still wanted. Also, as a Christian, would I want a journal made from something that's blasphemous or full of untruth? No. Just as I wouldn't want one made from a book on witchcraft or horoscopes. We can cover them, turn them to new paper pulp, but they will always be what they were. In some kind of way, it makes me think of 'a wolf in sheep's clothing.' Just some thoughts. Bless you 😊
I grew up hearing family members exclaim, “Don’t say that. You’ll speak it into existence .” Not a fan of that line of thinking. Seems to fall in line with positive think power mentality.
"Jesus Calling " is so popular. Several people gave it to me as a gift. I hated it and threw it away. I don't understand why anyone would be comfortable with some lady "channeling" Jesus!! Even as a new Christian at the time, the Holy Spirit told me NO, you can read His Word and pray and hear Him yourself!
I had the unfortunate experience of reading "Your Best Life Now" as a teen. And I gotta admit, I felt good in the beginning, but as I got older, I was still found wanting, never answered my questions regardless holiness and salvation. So I read the Bible myself and found a different picture of who God is. And I can say I became much happier when learning the truth. Knowing that you have the Holiness obtained by the Lord Jesus is the only way to live "your best life now". BTW I decided to re-read the book to criticize it now that I'm more biblically mature. It's so full of nonsense I don't think I'll finish it...
Jabez, the shack, purpose driven life, and others, I dropped reading it because it didn't sit right with me. Now, I know why. Holy Spirit was nudging me. Glad I listened.
Sad!.... the "Christian" bookstore in my town was fairly solid when I was saved (mid-90's), but by the late 90's they were filling up the shelves with this garbage...and fewer and fewer Bibles, and solid teaching. It got so bad that I went in for the final time in about 2008, asking for a John MacArthur book ... and they had NO IDEA who he was. Same for R.C. Sproul. But plenty of Joyce Meyer and Joel Osteen! 🙄😓
Watch Les Fedick and Truth Time Radio on UA-cam to understand how we have to rightly divide," the two separate gospels. We divide our gospel of the grace of God from Israel's gospel of the kingdom. II Timothy 2:15, Ephesians 1:13-14.
Just the other day a co-worker of mine was talking about a church he attends in a larger city and how cool it was that the music was like going to a rock concert. I wonder what the sermon is like. Wait they most likely do not have a sermon but instead have a chit chat or something like that. Thanks for stating the truth of Scripture so well.
Thank you for this Todd. People need to know. I read "The Power of Positive Thinking" in high school. It did help me with self confidence and self esteem, but after I was saved and "grew" in the Lord, I realized what a "self" book it is. God is the One who helps us with confidence and self esteem in the best possible light when we know we belong to Him. I have read some of these comments, and I thank God that His truth has shined through. Another very dangerous book is "Woman, Thou Art Loosed" by T.D. Jakes. Don't read it ladies.
I’ve never heard you speak before. I’m amazed! Thank you so much for the HONEST truth! I have read some of these books. Hated the Shack! Another issue I have is Bible Study groups. I love to study the Word, I don’t love to study and, even with good curriculum, listen to a group go around the room and each say “ Well, what I feel…” I don’t want to hear how you FEEL, I want to know what the Scripture says!
I admit I read the shack & it helped me some as I have had severe father issues & seeing God as the heavenly father did put stumbling blocks in my path, but I have always been a apologist at heart & always took a "take what you can use & leave the rest" mentality, I knew wasn't theologically sound & read it as such.
I did too and enjoyed it for the same reason but also knowing full well that is wasnt theologically sound. the scary thing is if a new believer reads it and believes its "theology."
Oh my word! Thank you for tackling this! I was given ‘I Kissed Dating Goodbye’ to read in 8th grade when I was a 14-year-old girl. I became fixed on purity in a self-righteous way…until I dated a bad boy (son of our church secretary) when I was 19 years old. I had been told nothing about sex. I was excused out of doing anatomy stuff and sex talks in school health class, so when my boyfriend started talking a little dirty to me, I was intrigued. I felt like I should be repulsed, but my curiosity was piqued instead. I ended up falling…hard, and then living as one with a scarlet letter until I met my husband, who was already a pastor at the time. He told me, ‘Redemption is sweeter than innocence.’ Suddenly I felt pardoned and forgiven by the person I felt like I had deplorably wronged before I even met him. I didn’t believe God could forgive me until my husband did, thus elevating his status as higher than God’s. 18 years later, I finally told my parents about my fall from grace. I was tired of the little jabs at other girls with a more blatant scarlet letter and revealed my own. It was cathartic. I’m 37 years old. I only told my parents last month. Another book, the Prayer of Jabez. Again, I was a young teenager. Our church did a Jabez initiative where we were all entrusted with $10 and then told to multiply it along with reading the book and ‘watch how God blessed’. I did multiply it by extremely hard work, a testimony to capitalism and the work of our hands being blessed in this country. But when it didn’t work for other things I tried, it made me feel like I wasn’t close enough to God or something. That was a weird time. Right after the Jabez initiative to raise money for a new sanctuary, our pastor left our church because he was offered a better salary at a more prestigious church in the area. Both churches collapsed. We left ours two years later. Don’t even get me started on Beth Moore’s tripe! I refused to read her studies when I was as young as 15 years old. I’ve always hated her stuff.
C.S. Lewis wrote "Mere Christianity" this book and the C.S. Lewis movie "The Most Reluctant Convert" contributed to my husband finding faith in Jesus! Good book and movie
Let's see, before watching, this is my list: The Shack The Purpose Driven Life Prayer of Jabez 7 Stages of Spiritual Growth Your Best Life Now (or anything by Joel Osteen) Jesus Calling Heaven Is For Real (or *any* heaven tourism book) Harbinger 1&2 (or anything by Jonathan Cahn) *That's all I got off the top of my head.
I needed to hear that I wasn't damaged goods. I've thought that even post salvation, I was lesser than those who had saved themselves for marriage. I love my Savior and my husband. My husband saved himself and I did not. It haunts me that I could not give that to him. Could you talk more about this?
Do you have a local pastor? Or a Christian counselor you could talk to, Brittany? No one should be haunted or made to feel “less than” because of past sins. Your husband may have saved himself for marriage, but I’m sure he’s committed other sins in his life. The point I’m trying to make is The Bible teaches us that “all have sinned.” (Romans 3:23) If you ask God to forgive you, He is “faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9). God wipes our slate clean from sin when we repent and seek Him. You are not damaged goods! You are a daughter of the Most High God. Hold onto those promises from Scripture! Yes, we are all sinners, but asking for forgiveness and repenting for our sins allows us to live free from the condemnation of men and women. The Holy Spirit convicts our hearts. He does not condemn us to a life of anxiety or pain. You gave your husband what you had to give, which was yourself, a flawed human, just as he is as well. I would urge you to seek a wise counselor to talk to. Your peace is vital. Praying for you, dear sister.
Have been is past tense. Do you walk looking over your shoulder? If you do you're going to fall. The fact that you admit your wrong shows you care. So does God. He did not send his son Jesus to die for perfect people but for lost sinners. You have been forgiven be happy and serve God.
@@OneBraveWoman howdy Elaine, I should clarify. My husband is a wonderful man and has never once in our 13 years together mentioned my past in that way. He is a very VERY good man, who is dutiful, a Godly man, loving and generous, not to mention highly intelligent. Please don't mistake my comment as any external factor other than this very specific book having made me feel this way. Thats all I was trying to communicate. I really appreciate your heart. 🥰
@@brittany... I didn’t take it as a criticism of your husband in any way. I am certain God will guide you as you walk with Him. From one woman to another, your past is merely that-the past. It’s the present that matters. So grateful that our Heavenly Father washes us clean! ❤️It’s amazing how the enemy can use one small thing (like a song, a book, a word) to foster doubt and guilt in our minds. I think recognizing the source of the issue is so important and it helps us to know how to pray. Christian ladies are all on the same journey together-a journey to the heart of Christ Jesus, the one who is our Good Father, lover of our souls and our shelter. God bless you, sweet lady.
Thank you! Years ago, members of my church were passing the Shack around and talking about how great it was. I tried reading it, but I hated the symbolism, which was one person's interpretation of the Holy Spirit and Wisdom, and I forget what else. Not only that, I thought it was juvenile, like a middle schooler wrote it. Borderline blasphemous if you ask me. Of course I didn't finish it.
Someone told me what a great book it was, so I read it. The writing was so terrible I had to force myself to finish it just to see if it got better. It didn’t. I learned a lot about trusting that person’s “recommendations.” 😂
I think it's dangerous to personify God and the holy spirit. Fitting the holiness of an infinite God into man's imagination of him. You may say well, JESUS, but, God did that. He alone should be pushing those limits. Not the imaginations of men.
I kissed dating goodbye was actually life changing for me. I don't remember all the nitty gritty of the book, but it did open my eyes to the flippant dating I was doing. I think if people read the book and didn't read their Bibles with it, then maybe they felt condemned, but I never did.
Deeply appreciate brother Todd , Lord’s faithful saint, your works of faith and your labour of love to boldly speak the truth of God’s words because you believe and you are called by God to keep proclaiming His truth to His true sheep. Praise God. Yes. All these Bible liars have to be identified so gullible and trusting and ignorant souls will not be misled. I have seen with my own eyes a church here passing out Rick Warren’s ‘Divine Purpose’ to people in the congregation! I thank God and I praise God for God has raised His army of BOLD and FAITHFUL saints on this fallen earth to uphold His truth, like brothers Todd, Justin Peters, Voddie , Steve Lawson, Paul Washer , pastors Alistair Begg and John MacArthur, and every of His faithful saints in G3, Ligonier, and Founders. Hallelujah. To God Be All The Glory !
Thank you for this video. When I was very new in my Christian walk, I read many of these books and, honestly, enjoyed them. But, what it did for me was to dig deeper into God's Word and ONLY then did I begin to question things I read. I am still learning but now I always compare truth (the bible) to what I read and if it doesn't line up, I will stop and speak truth in love to any friends or family about why I cannot finish whatever book it may be.
The many reasons why discernment is important. I heard some terrible things about I Kissed Dating Goodbye as that one caused a lot of problems. The Shack is definitely one of the worst movies and novels out there as The Shack teaches a false gospel that is damning. On the other hand, some of my favorite Christian books all of which are biblically sound are Safely Home by Randy Alcorn, Wrestling With Discipleship by Chad Davidson, The Knowledge of the Holy by A. W. Tozer, and The Power in Prayer by Charles Spurgeon.
I am ashamed to say I have read three of those books. BUT im sure if I remember correctly that it was the purpose driven life that turned me off "Christian" books altogether for a few years. I remember saying to myself that from now on I'm only reading the bible. The other two books were the Shack and 90 minutes in heaven. I bought those two from a Christian bookshop. I have since learned that not all books touted to be Christian actually are solid. I repent of reading those books and even lending one to someone. 😥
No need for shame. You may have been deceived but by the grace of God you're not anymore. We have to rejoice when we look back and see what God rescues us from. Because it paints such a clear image of our need for him. The people who should feel shame are the ones writing, publishing and promoting dangerous theology. And pastors who refuse to shepherd their flock. Leaving their sheep biblically illiterate and cloaked in deception. They should be ashamed.
I avoid "Christian" bookstores as nearly all of them are filled with word of faith new age trash. My friend told me I kissed dating goodbye is a good book but now I decided not to read it.
Thank you for calling out Rick Warren. Our old pastor pushed Warren’s books and wanted our church to be just like Warren’s. The sad thing was our pastor was soliciting prostitutes and was arrested in a sting operation. We had cases of ‘Purpose Driven Church’ stacked up ready to begin the study. Many people did not wish to do the study sensing something wasn’t right. I listen to your program, and others, as they help me when I can’t put my finger on where the problem is. Continue the good work.
The thing about sex before marriage, yes you are not damaged goods and you are a beloved of God for there is ‘NO’ condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. With that being said no need to go have sex before marriage just so you can get by with it only because your in Christ while knowing full well of what you’re doing. Remember, God knows all and sees all. Is there forgiveness? Absolutely. I still wouldn’t recommend abusing Grace.
I reread the shack after watching the movie, and with highlighters and pencils and my Bible...there was a point it made me so mad I wanted to burn the shack book, literally wanted to burn it
I don’t disagree with you but am curious which point you are referring to? I’m sad to say I have a couple of these books. Thanks to Todd and this video for sharing and caring.
@@edwmess9073 I think what made me stop reading, as I was rereading while critically thinking, was something in regards to salvation; where it sounded so much like Universalism, that there is no hell and everybody will end up in Heaven.... I think that is when I couldn't handle it anymore
I've lost a few "friends" because of these books. Many women in the church would rather grab a what did God say to you book instead of grabbing the what does God say to me Bible. Don't forget to mention A Lineage of Grace. She states its fiction but it's a dangerous book for those who don't know the Bible and don't know God's Truth😣
@@rogerwill8199 i know that they arent the actual words of Jesus but based upon scripture and similar to a prophetic word to be carefully discerned as you said. Read like this it is very encouraging and makes me look at the actual scripture more closely.
I read parts of love wins…..got me thinking in the right direction about God’s salvation for ALL! 1Tim 4:10 "…we rely on the living God, Who is the Saviour of all mankind, especially of believers."
Wonderful video Todd!! Grateful that you are sharing so boldly why these books are dangerous. I was wondering if you could make a video talking about the good books to read?
Maybe you don't know the story behind 'Jesus Calling"... making it short: It is basically for people who have debilitating diseases. It has been very helpful in the lives of sooo many including myself. There are verses from the bible on every page. It is a devotional.
@@arlenefisher1164 Thanks for sharing, I bought two copies as Christmas gifts one for my sister and one for my niece. I thought the reasons that were given in this video as to why this channel dislikes the book was pretty lame and out of context. Our Lord Jesus does indeed speak to His sheep even now but I've not heard anyone claim their personal relationship with Christ takes precedent over the Gospel and nothing the Lord has ever spoken to me has contradicted His written word.
Thank you for this information. I have a few of those books. I am going to through them away now. I didn't know they were so evil. Thank you for letting us know and understand the work behind these books.
Great to hear, wow it's scary because many of these books are so loved by many even some of my close brothers in Christ. All we need to do is pray God reveals truth to them, then present it to them
I read The Prayer of Jabez many years ago and I felt like God showed me that the territory I was praying for was the territories in my life I had let go to sin and so I prayed for my ground back I let the devil steal, like emotional stability, depression, smoking, not growing in the Lord, not having a strong prayer life, relationships etc. I still occasionally pray this prayer, and I especially like the part asking the Lord to keep his hand on me, to keep me from evil so I won't cause others pain. I do think there is something in the territory idea that I need healing in because I heard another person recently talk about protecting our borders and something in me broke and i just cried. I think when I let sin into my life and did not honor God and seek Him first, a lot of ground He gave and purposed for me was encroached on and stollen by the devil, my enemy, and now I'm fighting for it back!! I praise God for His faithfulness and mercy, I praise Him daily for all His blessings and for being my contant help in time of trouble! He has been so good to me (and I'm not rich or have a perfect marriage/family), but I see Him take care of me so well in all the little special ways that make my heart sing ❤
Well said on "I Kissed Dating Goodbye." Josh raised some reasonable issues with how the culture of our time (esp. since the 60's) has turned dating/courting/whatever term people want to use for marital pursuits into such a selfish, sensuous, ungodly thing; the biggest problem, as I see it, is that he was far too young and spiritually immature to present the argument he proffered, and the fruit -- as you pointed out -- has not born out as well as he probably would have hoped.
I agree, there was a problem Josh was trying to address but he overcompensated (partially because he was too young) and those that listen to him experienced a completely different set of problems.
@@Seraph68 Depending on how much of it they took to heart; I think that is the key here, because so many young men and women took what Harris wrote as gospel, without actually holding it up to what Scripture actually teaches, and there is plenty of blame to go around there (i.e. it's not solely Harris fault, as it seems he feels in light of how his falling away from the faith played out largely from doing a documentary on the negative impact of the book).
@@davidjcheney I agree and Josh was probably the most visible representation of these ideas. The problem is not just about what he wrote but the purity culture that developed in churches that overcompensated, like the Pharisees. A lot of people give the Pharisees a hard time (rightfully so) but miss the aspect of their efforts being well intentioned. They intended to follow the Law, but got preoccupied with their rules instead.
The last time I went to a Lifeway bookstore, it had a very small rack of Bible study the rest of the large store was the "be a Christian like me". Sad.
2:43 I liked I Kissed Dating Goodbye and had no particular problems on my wedding night. I never thought sex was dirty, and that book didn’t make me think it was. I’ve heard people complain about ‘purity culture,’ and maybe I don’t know precisely what they were talking about, but saving sex for marriage really kept me out of a lot of trouble, and that book contained some helpful points in the midst of a sea of temptation. I never got the impression that people who didn’t save sex for marriage were any more sinful than I was, as we all sin, and I think that point was especially hammered home in the sequel, Boy Meets Girl. Sure, I’m aware the author has fallen away, and that’s tragic, but truth is independent of the speaker. I certainly can’t agree with the sentiment that it should never have been written.
That's pretty serious what you said. You'd be a really bad counselor, because you don't see too much of a difference between having sex before or after the marriage, "because we are sinners anyway" ISV Rom 6:15 What, then, does this mean? Should we go on sinning because we are not under Law but under grace? Of course not!
@@emmanuelcasado Perhaps there has been a misunderstanding. It’s not that there is no difference between sex outside of versus within marriage. Sins can still leave scars this side of heaven, and I very much think waiting was worth the struggle it took and would encourage others to do so as well. It’s that my avoiding that particular sin does not make me less sinful, or as the guy in the video says, makes any other repentant sinner ‘beneath’ those who waited like me as a “second class Christian who needs to feel shame for the rest of their lives” by comparison. As James 2:10 says, “For whoever keeps the whole Law but fails in one point is guilty of breaking all of it.” And Jesus in Matthew 18:33, “Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?” That’s me as much as it is anyone else. It seemed he was saying that the book encouraged people to rank themselves that way. I don’t think it did.
@@KirisutonoNeko understand your point and I agree 💯. But even if we don't judge them, the couple who have sex before marriage will have to face the consequences of that kind of sin in their lives.
Christians need to get grounded and rooted in the Word of God. Read systematically chapter by chapter verse by verse growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Start in John to plant your roots in a personal relationship with Jesus, our Lord, and Savior. See how Jesus relates to different people's needs.❤✝️🛐
I have not read the Jesus Calling book. But I have looked through it a little bit a bunch of months ago. From what I did read... I didn't find it to be some unreadable and offensive thing to be rejected as BAD. I skipped forward in this video just to learn about the problems with that book. Nothing was provided in terms of evidence as a reason why it's a bad book. Except that your own personal opinion of it says that it's a bad book (a stinker.) That doesn't mean it's a bad book necessarily it just means that you don't have the faith that allows you to make use of it. The reason given as to why you embrace it as a bad book... "It's 'extra Biblical' and we only need the Bible." Well EVERY book could be thought of as extra Biblical. This video is extra Biblical if someone wanted to be literal about it. God allows us to read books other than the Bible. The Bible says that some people's faith allows them to eat meat and some people's faith allows them to eat only vegetables. That doesn't mean eating meat is bad. I am not really trying to endorse that book since I know not a whole lot about what is in it. From what I did read.... I suspect God and Jesus aren't terribly bothered about it as if it's a stinker of a book. If anyone wants to read and find inspiration in it just of course consider that it's written by an infallible human being who is capable of mistakes and it's not a guaranteed "words should be written in red" type of thing. --- When I clicked on this video I was looking for a reason to say "Oh I get it. Okay that's a crummy book." It's a crummy book "because I said so" doesn't quite give me a real enough reason as to why I should think so too.
The more I read the Bible the more I can see Gods wisdom, Gods grace and mercy and how wonderful His plan is for our lives!! 🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼✝️. NOTHING beats the Bible! Might I suggest a study Bible, it’s so enlightening. Also Matthew Henry’s Commentary! You can get it free online. Combining my prayers for understanding through the Holy Spirit, reading my study Bible and Matthew Henry’s Commentary I’ve learned so much about the Character of God AND the character of Satan. God WINS!!
My former Pastor gave me Jesus Calling as a gift, when I was pretty much 5 months out of the world. This was in an SDA church. Female pastor. Suffice to say, I left that church and repented of following a female shepherd, who, despite her efforts to be supportive in my difficult times, preached and taught nothing but heresy. So many are on their way to Hell, and they don’t realise it!! I mean, I’m not ready and God is always working in my life to break down the strongholds that have bound me for years, and I accept Christ as my saviour and Lord, but how can people IGNORE the truth of our faith, even when told?!
@@lookingup82 I have "christian" friends qwho think it was good. most people have bought the lie that God appears in whatever form you need at the time. But he doesn't. Sadly there will be so many when they stand before God whom he will say depart from me for I never knew you.
Could you do a follow up video - top 10 Christian Books that Everyone Should Read!
You know Todd will just say the Bible!😂
AW Pink, Randy Alcorn, Tim Keller and Max Lucado are some authors you can read
@@NADQuest After all God is greatest Author ain't He?
@@NADQuest true 😀
Thanks for the suggestion - keep an eye out!
- Ethan from Wretched
Theology absolutely matters! Just prayed for you, Mr. Friel; may God continue through His Holy Spirit to keep you strong, unwavering and always abounding in His work for His glory.
@Susan Throop Amen Susan.
The more I listen, my heart swells with gratitude that Jesus would take me from readings like this and turn me toward sound teachers and the true Gospel. I was so lost. But now I'm found. ❤️ Thank you, Wretched, for being a reliable, safe resource for the children of Christ. ❤️
Hallelujah, amen! 🙏
Todd is not a sound teacher he is a FALSE TEACHER go watch the youtube channel HERALDS FOR THE KING and he had a conversation with todd and Todd does not know the bible and he is leading you astray from the TRUTH
I was just thinking the same thing....... Thank you Jesus for giving me the truth through real men, preaching, and women teaching the word of God. thank you Wretched, we hear you and love you.
@Susan Throop What's a Calvinist?
@@davidshedlock7179people who take delight in the thought of others going to hell because God made them for just that purpose.
Sadly, I fell for the lure of Rick Warren is one of his “purpose driven churches” in Colorado. Thankfully, my husband saw through it and, eventually, removed the blinders from my eyes. I’m so grateful for God’s mercy and love for showing me the truth! 🙏🏼
I read that book by Rick Warren as well AND OUR (former) church did the book as a bible study as well 😪.
Warren is a heretic and rest maga church.
@@valeriehancock1724 sad. I am alone & 2004..started going there. Thank the Holy Spirit, He gently took my hand away.
I believe, THIS is why, GOD ONLY WANTS MALE PASTORS
they could see thru this easier
When Rick Warren's book was out years ago our Pastor suggested the church to use ,'The purpose driven life', as Bible study as well. I had mixed feelings about this... Because then as a growing Christian, the Bible was the Best book I read, it had and continues to have a powerful impact in my life. And in my mind I refused to have another book by some random person from "America" to guide me through my relationship with Jesus my Savior.
And not surprisingly it just fizzed out over time.
Toddddddd, not only are you one of the most accurate apologist for God’s Word, but also one of the most creative, inspiring and humorous I’ve ever listened to. Thank you, brother, for your ministry and today’s exposures of false teachings!!!
God always speaks to me by directing me to a passage of scripture. Thank God for His Word!
Amen! And thank you for watching!
- Ethan from Wretched
I love this. I'm learning the Bible more. Would you say you're generally very knowledgeable about all the books? Does the Lord remind you of something you've already read, or something newer to you?
About 3 years ago, I found a Bible teacher, who knew rightly dividing the word of truth!
When he got to Hebrews 1, it took him an hour, bouncing all around the King James, to show what that first word of Hebrews 1:1 really is!
That word was God!
I got hooked, hours a day, study!
What he taught, was exactly what Pastor John MacArthur preached!
That led to you Todd, as well as Justin Peters, Phil Johnson!
I can’t wait to start everyday, seeing what the Lord Jesus, is going to reveal that day, in study, of the king James only!
You have a great gift Todd, as does anyone who knows 2nd Timothy 2:15,
Ephesians 2:8&9,
1st Corinthians 15:1-4!
I love my Lord and Savior!
God Bless you all!
That's awesome! I used to attend a church that was so light on scripture and my first year then I started to listen to Pastor John MacArthur. Was a blessing from God helping me see what expository preaching was!
If I could recommend any resource to any christian it would be Ariel ministries. Dr. Arnold Fruchtenbaum is a Messianic Jew and does his studies through a jewish perspective, and wow it really helps understand the bible so much better.
May I ask the name of the teacher?
The first word of Hebrews 1 is "God," spelled G-O-D. Why would an hour of bouncing around be necessary?
Thanks for adding the Prayer of Jabez on here. That book gave me a false hope when I was younger and into the prosperity gospel
@Susan Throop The elect are those who God foreknew and have been chosen by God before the foundation of the world. If you are a Christian, one who has opened their heart, mind and soul to the Spirit of God (aka the Holy Spirit), your spirit being revivified and sharing the temple (your body) with Him, then you are the redeemed of the Lord and His elect.
"All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and whoever comes to Me I will never cast out. For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will but the will of Him who sent Me. And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that I should lose nothing of all that He has given Me, but raise it up on the last day. For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in Him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.” John 6:37-40 ESV
"For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works." Titus2:11-14 ESV
When that book came out, I was stunned at how many believers fell for it. It is so obviously unbiblical.
@@mistiinseattle the prayer itself is not unbiblical. What people expect from the prayer is.
@@mikegustafson58 in the context of the book it is indeed umbilical. Yes it appears in the Bible but the book usage is completely out of context. 😁
@@mistiinseattle I don't disagree about the book but it is still a nice prayer
Excellent job, brother Todd! I admit that I didn't even know a few of these books were heretical. Thank you for shining a light! God bless you!
Watch Les Fedick and Truth Time Radio on UA-cam to understand how we have to rightly divide," the two separate gospels. We divide our gospel of the grace of God from Israel's gospel of the kingdom. II Timothy 2:15, Ephesians 1:13-14.
Yes, 100%! I've lost count of how many times I've been informed I was being a hypocrite and unchristian because "Jesus said do not judge." It's always whenever you counter ideas and their consequences such as these espoused in these books. For the record, Jesus also told us to judge with "righteous judgement" in John 7:24.
Telling someone not to judge is a judgement. Ironic.
@@TheJpep2424 That's a good point.
Amen sis
Amen and AMEN!!✝️🙏🙂
I believe to not judge others is to not judge non believers because they know no different. On the other hand, if my brother in the church who is a believer, yet he struggles with an addiction, that is when i believe we judge "in love" so to they turn from sin....
J. Vernon McGee said, "We don't need no more helper books!"
Todd and team - so well done, as always! Speaking truth in a time of bountiful lies will gain much scorn - and blessed be that scorn. Thank you for all you do!
Thank you.
N.T. Wright will be forgotten just like the others but that can't come soon enough.
I remember reading the prayer of Jebez, shortly after I got saved a little over twenty years ago. And must admit that I jumped in the deep end with both feet. Thank God, that His word puts us back on the straight and narrow.
Thank you. I've had a few of these books at one point or other in my walk. The more of the Bible I read, the more of these books I threw out, until I just stopped even looking at them. I encourage anyone who wants to find God and get to know Him to read the Bible. His words are truth and the truth does indeed set you free.
Amen to all you've written here!
The quality of this video is something to be admired. I've been a longtime listener (since The Way of the Master days) and I just want to give kudos to the team for their efforts. Thank you for this kind of video. Very helpful. It's scary how many Christian women like "Jesus Calling". Poor theology and discernment.
I know right. It's sad
If you have sex before marriage you have sinned towards God. And if you sinned towards God you must genuinely repent of that sin. Someone who is in Christ does not like sining towards God deliberately.
Great video warning of the false teaching in these popular books. I love Justin Peters’ quote about hearing the voice of God. I use it frequently!
I remember mentioning the prayer of Jabez to my pastor at the time and he said, “God would rather hear the prayer of [insert your name here].” 🤣
I bought the Jesus Calling book when someone told me it was good. I read the first 2 pages and promptly threw it in the trash! Only Jesus speaks for Himself! Thank you for looking out for everyone!
I read The Purpose Driven Life alongside my church and I got to the part where he talked about heavenly rewards and how God sees every little thing you do and evaluates you when you go up into heaven.
The amount of pressure and dread I felt when I read that was insane. And it's only recently that I started to realize how that kind of mindset is antithetical towards the entire point of the Gospel and why we do what we do. We shouldn't be doing good works for rewards in Heaven, we should do so because we love God and want to save others.
While I imagine there is some nuggets of truth to what he wrote, I hate the idea of trying to save people so I can be "rewarded". Saving someone *is* the reward. This "You" centered ideology the author and the others push is self-defeating at best and corrosive at worst.
If I get special rewards up in Heaven for whatever reason, great! I'd be honored to have our Heavenly Father give them to me, but they aren't the reward. He is.
Years ago I was given a copy of The Purpose Driven Life. Told that it would change my life. I read the first chapter several times but I couldn't seem to read past that first chapter for some reason. I ended up throwing the book away.
Yeah, I was given one, too and barely read it, too. It seems like it had some quotes from other religions and philosophies besides just Christianity and scripture in it, too, but I could be wrong on that. Anyway, I don't even know what happened to my copy of it.
Same thing happened to me with Harry Potter.
That happened to me too, I tried reading it and after a week or so I lost motivation to read it
I used to own a number of these 'christian' books, especially on dating and relationships. But rather than being encouraging, they made me feel worse! So I took them down to my local skip and left them there.
Reminds me of the "Course in Miracles" from the 80s.
Thank you so much Todd. God bless you and your ministry 🙏
3:19 sex before marriage IS A SIN and every real Christian should feel ashamed of sinning against his father.
Repentance is needed and a profound self examination too
The Shack always gave me the creeps, but I admit that the Prayer of Jabez was promoted by the church I was attending at the time and I fell into that. Didn't take long for the Lord to guide me outta there!
A BLM member (probably) as Holy Ghost. This book is garbage.
I love the “heaven tourism” comment. There is a plethora of people claiming to have been to heaven many of whom have mutually contradictory testimony and unscriptural. Everyone of these books had an odor about them that I knew was not the perfume of Christ.
Left my progressive, seeker sensitive church 12 years ago and sadly to say, have read most of these books. Many of them very destructive. Since then I've come to true saving faith and go to a biblically sound church. All glory to King Jesus!
But the Truth and the Church will never die, never be defeated
I read "The Shack" in rehab of all places....I will say it did make me thirsty for God's Word. I started picking up my Bible more and eventually found a Pastor Macarthur video on YT....so I guess I have both of them to thank for helping me learn about the Gospel. I have come such a long way from that time all Glory to God.
God really can take *anything* and turn it for our good and HIS glory 🙌
Its amazing what God can use. I read many of these books but all along the way I was reading my bible and praying for God to reveal to me the truth of who He is. And he was faithful to do it!
I had a similar experience. My start was with Elevation church sermons with Furtick. I’ve since seen the light!
Even if others don't like it, GOD can use His Word or messages shared by others to encourage us, the Shack was a beautiful story of God's love , and no GOD is not a woman but He understands both men and women and comforts us when we need it. JESUS Calling is from Young's hearts conversations with Him and Him talking to us and she uses GODs Word. Devotions are an added way to share His love
@@laurasilverstone9735 It's not a matter of liking the book. I enjoyed the book. I completely agree that God can and does use whatever means He sees fit to call to people. But I'm concerned with your affirmation of Jesus Calling. Jesus Calling was written by, in the authors own account a type of automatic writing which is the same as tarot cards and mysticism. We have the Bible. We have all the Word of God in those 66 chapters. If what she was hearing was truly from God, shouldn't it be included in the Bible?
Yes, Biblical devotionals can and do encourage and can be an asset to prayer and study... notice I said Biblical. I'm not trying to imply that pastors or authors can't ever add antidotal aspects to their sermons or literature, it's necessary to keep people's attention sometimes but it shouldn't be the focus. The Word of God should ALWAYS be the focus. I pray that you will put those books away and keep your Bible the complete focus. I would also suggest checking out Pastor Justin Peters who does an excellent presentation on all of this that you can find here on YT called "Clouds without Water." All blessings to you.
18:15 "It is my deep conviction that anybody can be won to Christ if you discover the key to his or her heart."
Mr. Warren, allow me to acquaint you with the words of the Christ you believe people can be thus won to: "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day." (John 6:44).
Amen. Rick Warren is clearly Arminian.
I appreciate your ministry Mr. Friel. You teach people to rightly divide the truths of scripture. And how to think biblically. I also love witness Wednesday. Its such an encouragement for how to engage with people.
Many moons ago, I checked out a "Christian" book store and was repelled by the fluff that filled it's shelves! Haven't been back since.
If people spent the same amount of time studying their Bibles as they spent reading many of these books they would be better Christians and better people. God's word was given to humanity as the totality of His special, divine revelation.
You, sir, are absolutely right!!!
absolutely!
God speaks to us today through His Bible. In Revelation 22:18-19 says that no one should add nor take away from His Bible.
Thanks Todd. Sad to say that I only read one of those books as our Pastor was starting to take us in a seeker sensitive direction. It was stopped because people in the congregation were concerned. He also ended up stepping down because of moral issue. Bible number one followed by those who have gone on before us like Bunyan, Spurgeon, Ryle, Torrey. John MacArthur and R C Sproul were my main reads. I remember going into a Christian book store in the 90’s reading the covers of all the best sellers that were no more that self help and how to be successful. I went to my section where all the old authors of the past were to find some healthy reading. I haven’t changed my diet. Again thank you for a quality discernment ministry as I’m concerned about a few you tubers who I feel could learn how to do this better from you and Justin Peters.
The shack was a women's Bible study in my church. I no longer go to women book bible studies and left the church
i would not take part in any segregated Bible study. The fact that they want to impose segregation on their activity is a warning sign that there's something wrong going on there, in the minds of those who segregate.
Brothers and sisters do not need to be segregated. They are not even segregated in any natural family. The Christian family should be more spiritual than a natural family, therefore segregation is even more inappropriate in the church.
I buy these books for cheap at my local thrift store. I specifically look for anything by Joel Osteen...Rick Warren...and specifically for titles like...the secret, the shack, any and all the heavenly tourism books..
Because I have a small business, and I need extremely cheap, trash books that I bring home and gut them...I make handmade journals..and I need those heavy book boards to make them...turning trash into something lovely.
We enjoy nice bonfires in the fall/winter...so the gutted paper either goes for kindling...or when i have a custom paper order i turn all those trash paper inserts into pulp...and make new hand pressed paper for my customer.
Really enjoyed the video...new subscriber
I understand you needing cheap book covers for your business, but could I encourage you to reconsider the books you use. Firstly, by buying these books (even from thrift) it looks to those stores that these books are still wanted. Also, as a Christian, would I want a journal made from something that's blasphemous or full of untruth? No. Just as I wouldn't want one made from a book on witchcraft or horoscopes. We can cover them, turn them to new paper pulp, but they will always be what they were. In some kind of way, it makes me think of 'a wolf in sheep's clothing.'
Just some thoughts. Bless you 😊
@@teacupjojo7437
when the inside pages (and outside cover without the boards) get pulped, whatever was once printed on them becomes unreadable.
Thanks for always helping us avoid false teachings!
I was waiting for Joyce Meyer's Battlefield of the Mind to be on your list.
Thank you for this video. I made a donation to Wretched. So grateful for your organization! 🌻
GOD bless Todd and his delivery of the message
I grew up hearing family members exclaim, “Don’t say that. You’ll speak it into existence .” Not a fan of that line of thinking. Seems to fall in line with positive think power mentality.
"Jesus Calling " is so popular. Several people gave it to me as a gift. I hated it and threw it away. I don't understand why anyone would be comfortable with some lady "channeling" Jesus!! Even as a new Christian at the time, the Holy Spirit told me NO, you can read His Word and pray and hear Him yourself!
I had the unfortunate experience of reading "Your Best Life Now" as a teen. And I gotta admit, I felt good in the beginning, but as I got older, I was still found wanting, never answered my questions regardless holiness and salvation.
So I read the Bible myself and found a different picture of who God is. And I can say I became much happier when learning the truth. Knowing that you have the Holiness obtained by the Lord Jesus is the only way to live "your best life now".
BTW I decided to re-read the book to criticize it now that I'm more biblically mature. It's so full of nonsense I don't think I'll finish it...
Jabez, the shack, purpose driven life, and others, I dropped reading it because it didn't sit right with me. Now, I know why. Holy Spirit was nudging me. Glad I listened.
I remember being in a Christian bookstore in Florida while on vacation and someone inquiring about the book “The Prayer of Jezebel”. 😂
Sad!.... the "Christian" bookstore in my town was fairly solid when I was saved (mid-90's), but by the late 90's they were filling up the shelves with this garbage...and fewer and fewer Bibles, and solid teaching. It got so bad that I went in for the final time in about 2008, asking for a John MacArthur book ... and they had NO IDEA who he was. Same for R.C. Sproul. But plenty of Joyce Meyer and Joel Osteen! 🙄😓
😂😂😂 .
😂😂😂😂😂😂
Watch Les Fedick and Truth Time Radio on UA-cam to understand how we have to rightly divide," the two separate gospels. We divide our gospel of the grace of God from Israel's gospel of the kingdom. II Timothy 2:15, Ephesians 1:13-14.
😂😂😂
Just the other day a co-worker of mine was talking about a church he attends in a larger city and how cool it was that the music was like going to a rock concert. I wonder what the sermon is like. Wait they most likely do not have a sermon but instead have a chit chat or something like that. Thanks for stating the truth of Scripture so well.
@Susan Throop - I was with you right up until you criticized GCC.👎🏻
@@nadogrl John McArthur is, in my opinion, one of the best preachers and expositors of all time.
@Susan Throop - Also, “Calvinist morgue”? Obviously, you’ve never heard Pastor MacArthur sing! Check out “Amen”! Beautiful!
Thank you for this Todd. People need to know. I read "The Power of Positive Thinking" in high school. It did help me with self confidence and self esteem, but after I was saved and "grew" in the Lord, I realized what a "self" book it is. God is the One who helps us with confidence and self esteem in the best possible light when we know we belong to Him. I have read some of these comments, and I thank God that His truth has shined through. Another very dangerous book is "Woman, Thou Art Loosed" by T.D. Jakes. Don't read it ladies.
If you have time, do you mind explaining why “Woman, Thou Art Loosed” is not a good book?
Always remember just because it's in print does not always make it so. As a late family member of mine once said;" they like to sell books you know !"
I’ve never heard you speak before. I’m amazed! Thank you so much for the HONEST truth! I have read some of these books. Hated the Shack! Another issue I have is Bible Study groups. I love to study the Word, I don’t love to study and, even with good curriculum, listen to a group go around the room and each say “ Well, what I feel…” I don’t want to hear how you FEEL, I want to know what the Scripture says!
Thank you for letting me know that books I haven't read have in no way diminished my quality of life.
I read The Prayer of Jabez and I actually used to pray the Jabez prayer every day for like, oh gosh so long. And then I just stopped.
I admit I read the shack & it helped me some as I have had severe father issues & seeing God as the heavenly father did put stumbling blocks in my path, but I have always been a apologist at heart & always took a "take what you can use & leave the rest" mentality, I knew wasn't theologically sound & read it as such.
I did too and enjoyed it for the same reason but also knowing full well that is wasnt theologically sound. the scary thing is if a new believer reads it and believes its "theology."
@@prte23lv1yha4lv agreed. But God is in control. Pray for them that read these things to yearn for the Truth, not just what tickles the ear.
It is fiction. But God can and does use many people, situations and even fiction to draw them to Himself.
If you have sex before marriage you carry condemnation, guilt. It's a serious sin.
Oh my word! Thank you for tackling this! I was given ‘I Kissed Dating Goodbye’ to read in 8th grade when I was a 14-year-old girl. I became fixed on purity in a self-righteous way…until I dated a bad boy (son of our church secretary) when I was 19 years old. I had been told nothing about sex. I was excused out of doing anatomy stuff and sex talks in school health class, so when my boyfriend started talking a little dirty to me, I was intrigued. I felt like I should be repulsed, but my curiosity was piqued instead. I ended up falling…hard, and then living as one with a scarlet letter until I met my husband, who was already a pastor at the time. He told me, ‘Redemption is sweeter than innocence.’ Suddenly I felt pardoned and forgiven by the person I felt like I had deplorably wronged before I even met him. I didn’t believe God could forgive me until my husband did, thus elevating his status as higher than God’s. 18 years later, I finally told my parents about my fall from grace. I was tired of the little jabs at other girls with a more blatant scarlet letter and revealed my own. It was cathartic. I’m 37 years old. I only told my parents last month.
Another book, the Prayer of Jabez. Again, I was a young teenager. Our church did a Jabez initiative where we were all entrusted with $10 and then told to multiply it along with reading the book and ‘watch how God blessed’. I did multiply it by extremely hard work, a testimony to capitalism and the work of our hands being blessed in this country. But when it didn’t work for other things I tried, it made me feel like I wasn’t close enough to God or something. That was a weird time. Right after the Jabez initiative to raise money for a new sanctuary, our pastor left our church because he was offered a better salary at a more prestigious church in the area. Both churches collapsed. We left ours two years later.
Don’t even get me started on Beth Moore’s tripe! I refused to read her studies when I was as young as 15 years old. I’ve always hated her stuff.
C.S. Lewis wrote "Mere Christianity" this book and the C.S. Lewis movie "The Most Reluctant Convert" contributed to my husband finding faith in Jesus! Good book and movie
Once again, well done.
Let's see, before watching, this is my list:
The Shack
The Purpose Driven Life
Prayer of Jabez
7 Stages of Spiritual Growth
Your Best Life Now (or anything by Joel Osteen)
Jesus Calling
Heaven Is For Real (or *any* heaven tourism book)
Harbinger 1&2 (or anything by Jonathan Cahn)
*That's all I got off the top of my head.
I needed to hear that I wasn't damaged goods. I've thought that even post salvation, I was lesser than those who had saved themselves for marriage. I love my Savior and my husband. My husband saved himself and I did not. It haunts me that I could not give that to him. Could you talk more about this?
Do you have a local pastor? Or a Christian counselor you could talk to, Brittany? No one should be haunted or made to feel “less than” because of past sins. Your husband may have saved himself for marriage, but I’m sure he’s committed other sins in his life. The point I’m trying to make is The Bible teaches us that “all have sinned.” (Romans 3:23) If you ask God to forgive you, He is “faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9). God wipes our slate clean from sin when we repent and seek Him. You are not damaged goods! You are a daughter of the Most High God. Hold onto those promises from Scripture! Yes, we are all sinners, but asking for forgiveness and repenting for our sins allows us to live free from the condemnation of men and women. The Holy Spirit convicts our hearts. He does not condemn us to a life of anxiety or pain. You gave your husband what you had to give, which was yourself, a flawed human, just as he is as well. I would urge you to seek a wise counselor to talk to. Your peace is vital. Praying for you, dear sister.
Have been is past tense. Do you walk looking over your shoulder? If you do you're going to fall. The fact that you admit your wrong shows you care. So does God. He did not send his son Jesus to die for perfect people but for lost sinners. You have been forgiven be happy and serve God.
@@OneBraveWoman howdy Elaine, I should clarify. My husband is a wonderful man and has never once in our 13 years together mentioned my past in that way. He is a very VERY good man, who is dutiful, a Godly man, loving and generous, not to mention highly intelligent.
Please don't mistake my comment as any external factor other than this very specific book having made me feel this way. Thats all I was trying to communicate. I really appreciate your heart. 🥰
@@brittany... I didn’t take it as a criticism of your husband in any way. I am certain God will guide you as you walk with Him. From one woman to another, your past is merely that-the past. It’s the present that matters. So grateful that our Heavenly Father washes us clean! ❤️It’s amazing how the enemy can use one small thing (like a song, a book, a word) to foster doubt and guilt in our minds. I think recognizing the source of the issue is so important and it helps us to know how to pray. Christian ladies are all on the same journey together-a journey to the heart of Christ Jesus, the one who is our Good Father, lover of our souls and our shelter. God bless you, sweet lady.
@@OneBraveWoman Amen friend. God is always so good. Proverbs 3:5-9 keeps me going all of the time. And so many others along side that. 🥰
From Germany, praise the Lord for your faithfulness to Truth.
Claudia, thanks so much for watching. Make sure you are subscribed so you don't miss any of our content!
- Ethan from Wretched
Thank you! Years ago, members of my church were passing the Shack around and talking about how great it was. I tried reading it, but I hated the symbolism, which was one person's interpretation of the Holy Spirit and Wisdom, and I forget what else. Not only that, I thought it was juvenile, like a middle schooler wrote it. Borderline blasphemous if you ask me. Of course I didn't finish it.
Same here. So many were reading it when I was trying to stop them.
Hated The Shack, I knew right away it was garbage. Making God so small.
Someone told me what a great book it was, so I read it. The writing was so terrible I had to force myself to finish it just to see if it got better. It didn’t. I learned a lot about trusting that person’s “recommendations.” 😂
@Susan Throop Making God small. The whole situation had great premise, and then ... what lesson.?
I think it's dangerous to personify God and the holy spirit. Fitting the holiness of an infinite God into man's imagination of him. You may say well, JESUS, but, God did that. He alone should be pushing those limits. Not the imaginations of men.
I kissed dating goodbye was actually life changing for me. I don't remember all the nitty gritty of the book, but it did open my eyes to the flippant dating I was doing. I think if people read the book and didn't read their Bibles with it, then maybe they felt condemned, but I never did.
I think Todd was mostly condemning the really, really awful results of "Purity culture".
Does Todd have a full video on purity culture? I'm not familiar with the term and I'd be interested to hear his take.
Just curious...any relation to...Andrew Womack? (Charis 'Bible' School Pres. and Founder)
@@bonniemoerdyk9809 love Andrew and Charis life changing teaching!
Look up the manner in which the author lives today.
Hope you will cover “Every Man’s Battle”. That book is truly deplorable.
Deeply appreciate brother Todd , Lord’s faithful saint, your works of faith and your labour of love to boldly speak the truth of God’s words because you believe and you are called by God to keep proclaiming His truth to His true sheep. Praise God.
Yes. All these Bible liars have to be identified so gullible and trusting and ignorant souls will not be misled. I have seen with my own eyes a church here passing out Rick Warren’s ‘Divine Purpose’ to people in the congregation! I thank God and I praise God for God has raised His army of BOLD and FAITHFUL saints on this fallen earth to uphold His truth, like brothers Todd, Justin Peters, Voddie , Steve Lawson, Paul Washer , pastors Alistair Begg and John MacArthur, and every of His faithful saints in G3, Ligonier, and Founders. Hallelujah. To God Be All The Glory !
Thank you for this video. When I was very new in my Christian walk, I read many of these books and, honestly, enjoyed them. But, what it did for me was to dig deeper into God's Word and ONLY then did I begin to question things I read. I am still learning but now I always compare truth (the bible) to what I read and if it doesn't line up, I will stop and speak truth in love to any friends or family about why I cannot finish whatever book it may be.
You have obviously learned to apply the lesson in Acts 17:11 from an early stage in your walk - congratulations.
The many reasons why discernment is important. I heard some terrible things about I Kissed Dating Goodbye as that one caused a lot of problems. The Shack is definitely one of the worst movies and novels out there as The Shack teaches a false gospel that is damning.
On the other hand, some of my favorite Christian books all of which are biblically sound are Safely Home by Randy Alcorn, Wrestling With Discipleship by Chad Davidson, The Knowledge of the Holy by A. W. Tozer, and The Power in Prayer by Charles Spurgeon.
Thank you for this post! It can be difficult to suss out how legit some of these books really are or are not.
I am ashamed to say I have read three of those books. BUT im sure if I remember correctly that it was the purpose driven life that turned me off "Christian" books altogether for a few years. I remember saying to myself that from now on I'm only reading the bible.
The other two books were the Shack and 90 minutes in heaven. I bought those two from a Christian bookshop. I have since learned that not all books touted to be Christian actually are solid. I repent of reading those books and even lending one to someone. 😥
No need for shame. You may have been deceived but by the grace of God you're not anymore. We have to rejoice when we look back and see what God rescues us from. Because it paints such a clear image of our need for him. The people who should feel shame are the ones writing, publishing and promoting dangerous theology. And pastors who refuse to shepherd their flock. Leaving their sheep biblically illiterate and cloaked in deception. They should be ashamed.
I avoid "Christian" bookstores as nearly all of them are filled with word of faith new age trash. My friend told me I kissed dating goodbye is a good book but now I decided not to read it.
This was so good!!! Spot on! Thank you for making these videos, it has been a great tool to share with others
I've heard this beforeTodd, but it's good to be warned again. The way you bring everything is with God given humor. Thank's.
Thank you for calling out Rick Warren. Our old pastor pushed Warren’s books and wanted our church to be just like Warren’s. The sad thing was our pastor was soliciting prostitutes and was arrested in a sting operation. We had cases of ‘Purpose Driven Church’ stacked up ready to begin the study. Many people did not wish to do the study sensing something wasn’t right.
I listen to your program, and others, as they help me when I can’t put my finger on where the problem is. Continue the good work.
Yikes!
The thing about sex before marriage, yes you are not damaged goods and you are a beloved of God for there is ‘NO’ condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. With that being said no need to go have sex before marriage just so you can get by with it only because your in Christ while knowing full well of what you’re doing. Remember, God knows all and sees all. Is there forgiveness? Absolutely. I still wouldn’t recommend abusing Grace.
Surprised he didn't mention the old quote, "Paul is appealing, and Peale is appalling."
I reread the shack after watching the movie, and with highlighters and pencils and my Bible...there was a point it made me so mad I wanted to burn the shack book, literally wanted to burn it
I don’t disagree with you but am curious which point you are referring to? I’m sad to say I have a couple of these books. Thanks to Todd and this video for sharing and caring.
@@edwmess9073 I think what made me stop reading, as I was rereading while critically thinking, was something in regards to salvation; where it sounded so much like Universalism, that there is no hell and everybody will end up in Heaven.... I think that is when I couldn't handle it anymore
@@-BekahJoy- Universalism is wrong teaching. I agree! Thank you.
I've lost a few "friends" because of these books. Many women in the church would rather grab a what did God say to you book instead of grabbing the what does God say to me Bible. Don't forget to mention A Lineage of Grace. She states its fiction but it's a dangerous book for those who don't know the Bible and don't know God's Truth😣
Jesus Calling was such a blessing to my husband and I . I saw it as a personal application of the scriptures which are all at the bottom of each page.
It is for me too
Use discernment 🙏
@@rogerwill8199 i know that they arent the actual words of Jesus but based upon scripture and similar to a prophetic word to be carefully discerned as you said. Read like this it is very encouraging and makes me look at the actual scripture more closely.
Few comments for speaking the truth.......none the less keep on keeping on. Life’s a garden. Justin Peterson said it best.
I read parts of love wins…..got me thinking in the right direction about God’s salvation for ALL!
1Tim 4:10 "…we rely on the living God, Who is the Saviour of all mankind, especially of believers."
Wonderful video Todd!! Grateful that you are sharing so boldly why these books are dangerous. I was wondering if you could make a video talking about the good books to read?
“If you think Jesus is calling you please hang up” I CACKLED 😂
Me too LOL!
Maybe you don't know the story behind 'Jesus Calling"... making it short: It is basically for people who have debilitating diseases. It has been very helpful in the lives of sooo many including myself. There are verses from the bible on every page. It is a devotional.
@@arlenefisher1164 I agree. It has blessed me a lot. I live in Chronic pain with CFS/ME...
@@arlenefisher1164 Thanks for sharing, I bought two copies as Christmas gifts one for my sister and one for my niece. I thought the reasons that were given in this video as to why this channel dislikes the book was pretty lame and out of context. Our Lord Jesus does indeed speak to His sheep even now but I've not heard anyone claim their personal relationship with Christ takes precedent over the Gospel and nothing the Lord has ever spoken to me has contradicted His written word.
WOAH he said that as I read this comment like exactly
God bless Wretched Radio
Paul went to the third heaven. Corinthians say he saw things that could not be uttered.
Thank you for this information.
I have a few of those books. I am going to through them away now. I didn't know they were so evil.
Thank you for letting us know and understand the work behind these books.
I enjoyed the Shack but I looked at it as pure fiction about a grieving father’s dream. I never thought of it as theology.
Great to hear, wow it's scary because many of these books are so loved by many even some of my close brothers in Christ. All we need to do is pray God reveals truth to them, then present it to them
I read The Prayer of Jabez many years ago and I felt like God showed me that the territory I was praying for was the territories in my life I had let go to sin and so I prayed for my ground back I let the devil steal, like emotional stability, depression, smoking, not growing in the Lord, not having a strong prayer life, relationships etc. I still occasionally pray this prayer, and I especially like the part asking the Lord to keep his hand on me, to keep me from evil so I won't cause others pain.
I do think there is something in the territory idea that I need healing in because I heard another person recently talk about protecting our borders and something in me broke and i just cried. I think when I let sin into my life and did not honor God and seek Him first, a lot of ground He gave and purposed for me was encroached on and stollen by the devil, my enemy, and now I'm fighting for it back!! I praise God for His faithfulness and mercy, I praise Him daily for all His blessings and for being my contant help in time of trouble! He has been so good to me (and I'm not rich or have a perfect marriage/family), but I see Him take care of me so well in all the little special ways that make my heart sing ❤
This is where the OT is so foundational to the NT. Those people coming to Christ knew about their need for God
Purpose Driven Life for me is literally just a self help book with Bible passages shoehorned in
Well said on "I Kissed Dating Goodbye." Josh raised some reasonable issues with how the culture of our time (esp. since the 60's) has turned dating/courting/whatever term people want to use for marital pursuits into such a selfish, sensuous, ungodly thing; the biggest problem, as I see it, is that he was far too young and spiritually immature to present the argument he proffered, and the fruit -- as you pointed out -- has not born out as well as he probably would have hoped.
I agree, there was a problem Josh was trying to address but he overcompensated (partially because he was too young) and those that listen to him experienced a completely different set of problems.
@@Seraph68 Depending on how much of it they took to heart; I think that is the key here, because so many young men and women took what Harris wrote as gospel, without actually holding it up to what Scripture actually teaches, and there is plenty of blame to go around there (i.e. it's not solely Harris fault, as it seems he feels in light of how his falling away from the faith played out largely from doing a documentary on the negative impact of the book).
I think parents took it to far more than the young peopke
@@davidjcheney I agree and Josh was probably the most visible representation of these ideas. The problem is not just about what he wrote but the purity culture that developed in churches that overcompensated, like the Pharisees. A lot of people give the Pharisees a hard time (rightfully so) but miss the aspect of their efforts being well intentioned. They intended to follow the Law, but got preoccupied with their rules instead.
@@Seraph68 overcompensating/overcorrecting seems to be a pattern for him, as he's now kissed Christianity behind.
The last time I went to a Lifeway bookstore, it had a very small rack of Bible study the rest of the large store was the "be a Christian like me". Sad.
2:43 I liked I Kissed Dating Goodbye and had no particular problems on my wedding night. I never thought sex was dirty, and that book didn’t make me think it was. I’ve heard people complain about ‘purity culture,’ and maybe I don’t know precisely what they were talking about, but saving sex for marriage really kept me out of a lot of trouble, and that book contained some helpful points in the midst of a sea of temptation. I never got the impression that people who didn’t save sex for marriage were any more sinful than I was, as we all sin, and I think that point was especially hammered home in the sequel, Boy Meets Girl.
Sure, I’m aware the author has fallen away, and that’s tragic, but truth is independent of the speaker. I certainly can’t agree with the sentiment that it should never have been written.
That's pretty serious what you said. You'd be a really bad counselor, because you don't see too much of a difference between having sex before or after the marriage, "because we are sinners anyway"
ISV Rom 6:15 What, then, does this mean? Should we go on sinning because we are not under Law but under grace? Of course not!
@@emmanuelcasado
Perhaps there has been a misunderstanding. It’s not that there is no difference between sex outside of versus within marriage. Sins can still leave scars this side of heaven, and I very much think waiting was worth the struggle it took and would encourage others to do so as well.
It’s that my avoiding that particular sin does not make me less sinful, or as the guy in the video says, makes any other repentant sinner ‘beneath’ those who waited like me as a “second class Christian who needs to feel shame for the rest of their lives” by comparison.
As James 2:10 says, “For whoever keeps the whole Law but fails in one point is guilty of breaking all of it.”
And Jesus in Matthew 18:33, “Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?”
That’s me as much as it is anyone else.
It seemed he was saying that the book encouraged people to rank themselves that way. I don’t think it did.
@@KirisutonoNeko understand your point and I agree 💯. But even if we don't judge them, the couple who have sex before marriage will have to face the consequences of that kind of sin in their lives.
Christians need to get grounded and rooted in the Word of God. Read systematically chapter by chapter verse by verse growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Start in John to plant your roots in a personal relationship with Jesus, our Lord, and Savior. See how Jesus relates to different people's needs.❤✝️🛐
I have not read the Jesus Calling book. But I have looked through it a little bit a bunch of months ago. From what I did read... I didn't find it to be some unreadable and offensive thing to be rejected as BAD. I skipped forward in this video just to learn about the problems with that book. Nothing was provided in terms of evidence as a reason why it's a bad book. Except that your own personal opinion of it says that it's a bad book (a stinker.) That doesn't mean it's a bad book necessarily it just means that you don't have the faith that allows you to make use of it. The reason given as to why you embrace it as a bad book... "It's 'extra Biblical' and we only need the Bible." Well EVERY book could be thought of as extra Biblical. This video is extra Biblical if someone wanted to be literal about it. God allows us to read books other than the Bible. The Bible says that some people's faith allows them to eat meat and some people's faith allows them to eat only vegetables. That doesn't mean eating meat is bad.
I am not really trying to endorse that book since I know not a whole lot about what is in it. From what I did read.... I suspect God and Jesus aren't terribly bothered about it as if it's a stinker of a book. If anyone wants to read and find inspiration in it just of course consider that it's written by an infallible human being who is capable of mistakes and it's not a guaranteed "words should be written in red" type of thing. --- When I clicked on this video I was looking for a reason to say "Oh I get it. Okay that's a crummy book." It's a crummy book "because I said so" doesn't quite give me a real enough reason as to why I should think so too.
So well written.
Thank you. Perfectly said.
The more I read the Bible the more I can see Gods wisdom, Gods grace and mercy and how wonderful His plan is for our lives!! 🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼✝️. NOTHING beats the Bible! Might I suggest a study Bible, it’s so enlightening. Also Matthew Henry’s Commentary! You can get it free online. Combining my prayers for understanding through the Holy Spirit, reading my study Bible and Matthew Henry’s Commentary I’ve learned so much about the Character of God AND the character of Satan. God WINS!!
For young children, The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle is a good way of explaining becoming a Christian and believer's baptism.
Amen Todd. I agree with your assessment of the books listed.
My former Pastor gave me Jesus Calling as a gift, when I was pretty much 5 months out of the world. This was in an SDA church. Female pastor.
Suffice to say, I left that church and repented of following a female shepherd, who, despite her efforts to be supportive in my difficult times, preached and taught nothing but heresy.
So many are on their way to Hell, and they don’t realise it!! I mean, I’m not ready and God is always working in my life to break down the strongholds that have bound me for years, and I accept Christ as my saviour and Lord, but how can people IGNORE the truth of our faith, even when told?!
Our local thrift store has a bunch of Jesus Callings for a quarter a piece. I keep meaning to buy them and throw them away.
Lol. That's what I do with The Books of Mormon.
I made the mistake of both reading the book "the shack" and watching the movie, but I knew immediately that it was bad
Had an argument with my Catholic mom about "The Shack". I still don't think she gets it.
@@lookingup82 I have "christian" friends qwho think it was good. most people have bought the lie that God appears in whatever form you need at the time. But he doesn't. Sadly there will be so many when they stand before God whom he will say depart from me for I never knew you.
Sex before marriage is fornication, that is uncontestable and is a sin. It is unchristian to refer to a person as an object/"goods".