He whom the Son sets free is free indeed
Jean's Testimony.
I have been a Christian now for about 21 years. The first year I
poured over my Bible many hours a day. I did not seem to be able to put it down.
I was growing and seeking the Lord with all of my heart.
In 1994, strange things began to happen in our church services after
my pastor had visited another church, that had been to Toronto. At first, God's
presence seemed to be very strong in our church and then the manifestations
began. The slaying in the spirit, the holy laughter, etc. The pastor wanted some
of us to go to Toronto. So along with him and his wife, four of us went
with them.
I was not aware of God's presence when we entered the sanctuary. It
was very strange indeed, Many, many different manifestations were taking place,
some almost to weird to believe I had seen them. Roaring and growling, people
rolling around in agony on the floor, one girl sailed right backward into
the music stands. I was shocked to say the least. At no time was I aware of
God's presence.
When we returned home, I poured thru my Bible again, to see if I
could find any place where these things happened. Of course I could not, the
only thing that even came close was the demoniac that Jesus healed. I voiced my
opinion many times, but was told by the leadership that God was refreshing His
people and that He was doing a new thing and I must not sit in judgment of it.
Not to speak against it. I should have run as fast as I could, but where would I
go? I stayed and watched, and so easily, I too fell prey to the wiles of the
enemy. I thought I must be wrong and my pastor was right. While I partook to a
certain degree, God's hand of protection was upon me. He never let me go again
to Toronto, tho I had many chances. I moved and was in another church in another
town, but still this "new thing" was there also. Every church I went
to was involved in the Toronto Blessing.
God, began pulling me out, I did not partake any more of the laying
on of hands, or getting in a prayer line to receive, God, began showing me what
was wrong in the churches. I was out of church about 2 years altogether. When
God opened my eyes, I knew I had to find out just what I believed. So once again
I went to my Bible, I was devastated to see how far I had fallen from the truth.
I could not believe it as thru it all I read my Bible, yet I was deceived! I
cried and repented for 3 days. I was then afraid to become involved with another
church. In my area, most of the churches are involved with Toronto etc.. A while
back I had some exposure to the Church of the Nazarene. I knew that pastor,
loved the Lord and preached the truth of God's Word. I contacted him and with
his wife, they ministered to me. I have grown to love them and the rest of the
congregation and God is really blessing me. I feel at home once again in a place
of God's Word and with His love flowing
abundantly.
So as much as I studied, I was deceived, by the enemy, it was
something that just comes over you, very slowly so you do not notice. If you are
in such a place run for your life and do not look back. Do not second guess
yourself as I did. God, allowed it for a reason and I am doing all that I can to
snatch others out of the fire.
Never be afraid to stand on God's Word.
Seek Him, know who you worship!
I am so thankful I am free!
Jean Moore
September 2003