Word of Faith

Part 2: Word of Faith & New Thought: A Modern Assessment

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Continuing last weeks discussion on the relationship between New Thought cults and the Word of Faith movement, we are joined by former New Thought proponent Melissa Doughtery and ex New Ager Steven Bancarz to examine positive confessionalism. This “name it and claim it” doctrine originated in the late 1800s with the teaching known as the Law of Attraction, first coined by Luciferian Helena Blavatsky, and became a staple teaching in New Thought and New Age philosophy. Statements such as “you possess what you confess” (Kenyon) and “you can have what you say” (Hagin) are classic lines by prominent Word of Faith fathers, though these principles originate from the metaphysical schools of the late 19th century. Positive confessionalism has worked its way into some very influential modern-day charismatic churches who have began to embrace the likes of Copeland and Hinn within their circles, refurbishing this doctrine under the new titles “declaration” and “decree”. Join us as we discuss the pervasiveness, error, and danger of this staple WOF doctrine and its relationship to the New Thought cults of past and present.

Word of Faith & New Thought: A Modern Assessment

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The Word of Faith movement is often critiqued for its health and wealth Gospel, charismatic abuses, and the antics of its televangelists. What’s talked about less often is its historical ties to the metaphysical cults of the late 1800s, and its doctrinal parallels to New Thought and New Age spirituality. Word of Faith grandfather E. W. Kenyon (1867-1948) was influenced by New Thought teachers such as Phineas Quimby and Mary Baker Eddy, thanks to his extensive metaphysical library and the influence of New Thought at his college of study. These teachings later become adopted and intensified by the father of the modern WOF movement Kenneth E. Hagin, who inspired the likes of Copeland, Roberts, and Hinn. In this series, we are joined by former New Thought proponent Melissa Doughtery and former New Ager Steve Bancarz to document these historical ties and analyze the striking similarities between WOF teachings and the metaphysical cults of past and present.