Defining Deception: Freeing the Church from the Mystical-Miracle Movement

by Costi W. Hinn

foundational doctrines of the Christian faith. For so many, the search for the next emotional experience replaced the passion to search the Scripture for direction and guidance from God.[8]

Dating back to A.D. 156 one can research the assault on orthodox Christianity by perhaps the first charlatan of the church, Montanus. Montanus came from Asia Minor along with two “prophetesses” named Prisca and Maximilla. His sect of followers insisted that opposition to their versions of prophecy was blasphemy against the Holy Spirit and their deception caused many churches to split.[11] Sound familiar?

Despite his self-claimed power to heal, Parham was unable to heal himself when his heart failed at just 55 years of age.

Johnson’s connection to Hinn is not merely theological, it is famil-ial. While they both have spoken at conferences together,[130] Johnson’s connection to Hinn was made through Hinn’s eldest daughter and son-in-law.[131] Hinn took notice as Johnson’s fame spread and he endorsed Johnson’s ministry. With Hinn’s global ministry now showing signs of decline, it benefited him to associate with Johnson.