Introduction
You are about to enter the world of Johnny Christian and his
roller coaster ride with the false teachings of Cleansing Stream.
I think it is important for the reader to understand my heart
on this issue and some of the reasons why I have chosen to take
such a strong stand against the Cleansing Stream.
From the outset I want to make it clear that I have no personal
vendetta to settle with anyone in the Cleansing Stream program
or at The Church On The Way. My reasons for opposing this program
are purely theological and pastoral. My heart is grieved when
I consider what this program teaches and what it does to Christians
and professing Christians.
The Cleansing Stream is a deliverance ministry and do not
let their smooth words about oppression versus possession fool
you. They cast demons out of Christians and practice all sorts
of spiritual warfare "techniques." This program insults
the work of Christ, undermines the power of regeneration, and
butchers the doctrine of sanctification. The more I have studied
this program and its theology, the more I am convinced that they
are in serious error.
There are bound to be some who will object to my straightforward
assessment of this program, but I stand by it. I am willing to
be corrected by the Scriptures if I am wrong. My heart holds
firm to the Bible and what it teaches. I am not going to be swayed
by appeals to experience or by sloppy interpretation. I challenge
the reader to test me and the theology I present by the Word
of God.
In closing I would like to answer some common attacks against
me. I would like to comfort those who might doubt this, but I
am not demon possessed! I am Christian who loves Jesus Christ!
It is a sad commentary on the spiritual blindness of some that
when they face biblical criticism, they demonize their opponents
(which is also a danger sign of a cult). I am also not doing
this for fame or prestige. Some people have accused me of wanting
to make a name for myself! Imagine that? Rest assured, I am not
making a name for myself. I am only trying to be faithful to
God's Word.
Another objection is that I have no right to be doing this.
Some people believe that only Jesus can correct those in the
church, and I need to leave all the correction to Him. I wholeheartedly
disagree! The Scriptures show that it is the church that needs
to judge the church. I wish that someone else would have done
this long ago, and maybe someone has, but I am not aware of any
substantial attempt to refute the errors of this program; instead,
I have watched this program spread world-wide to the detriment
of many thousands of believers.
I ask the reader to judge this material fairly. My words and
thoughts may not be clear, but do not dismiss the whole because
of the failings of some small parts. I am aware that there might
be grammatical errors in places that I missed in my reviews;
I only ask the reader to forgive my failings.
Tom
This paper is the property of Tom Launder and is copyrighted.
I give permission to distribute this paper as long as there has
been no changes to the content. If you have any questions, please
e-mail me.
Chapter 1 |
