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God's Generals; Why They Succeeded and Why Some Failed
Book by Liardon, Roberts
88 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1997
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 133 reviews
March 2, 2009
I was fascinated by this book. I was inspired, humbled, but most of all hopeful that God can take the simplest person who is willing to be used and make changes in this world that we live in. I am recommending this book to everyone I know. It has given me a new vision as to what God meant for the church to be in the world.
June 8, 2015
I love God's Generals. I read this book the first time in 2003 when I saw it with friend, I think. I read the book, and then went ahead to buy my own copy...read it again and again, until the pages all removed and went autonomous; and now, I've bought a new copy (I guard this one like life, though).
God's Generals shot some fire into my spirit as a young believer with a call into the ministry. I saw how ordinary men and women like John Alexander Dowie, John Lake, Smith Wigglesworth, Maria Woodworth-Etter etc. moved on (with only faith in God's word and the voice of the spirit in their hearts) to affect nations, and became world-movers for God.
This book is a must-read. You'll learn a lot from the faith-demonstrations of these Generals, as well as avoid the pitfalls that caused some of them to have fateful ends!
As an aside, excerpts from God's Generals (pages 160 and 161) that discussed William J. Seymour's wife were quoted in my book Beautiful Singles. Blessings.
God's Generals shot some fire into my spirit as a young believer with a call into the ministry. I saw how ordinary men and women like John Alexander Dowie, John Lake, Smith Wigglesworth, Maria Woodworth-Etter etc. moved on (with only faith in God's word and the voice of the spirit in their hearts) to affect nations, and became world-movers for God.
This book is a must-read. You'll learn a lot from the faith-demonstrations of these Generals, as well as avoid the pitfalls that caused some of them to have fateful ends!
As an aside, excerpts from God's Generals (pages 160 and 161) that discussed William J. Seymour's wife were quoted in my book Beautiful Singles. Blessings.
April 1, 2015
This book took my faith to another level. Life changing!
January 6, 2025
This is some wild church history that I never knew. The book gives an account of the lives of a few of the most significant leaders/evangelists in recent moves of the Holy Spirit. The book definitely stretched my faith, and informed my imagination on what revival could look like in the US.
These people are also very alive in the imaginations of the US American church today, so as I learned about them I started hearing their names, and references to the miracles that the Lord worked through them which made the stories feel very real and personal.
Although not every story had a happy ending, it was encouraging to read about how the Lord will use and partner with people who are wholly devoted to Him to do the work of healing, teaching, evangelizing, and shining the light of Christ into the world.
These people are also very alive in the imaginations of the US American church today, so as I learned about them I started hearing their names, and references to the miracles that the Lord worked through them which made the stories feel very real and personal.
Although not every story had a happy ending, it was encouraging to read about how the Lord will use and partner with people who are wholly devoted to Him to do the work of healing, teaching, evangelizing, and shining the light of Christ into the world.
May 30, 2022
God's Generals by Roberts Liardon was read For Heretical Research Only. He starts his book out with an Introduction in which he states "When I was twelve years old, the Lord appeared to me in a vision. In this vision, He told me to study the lives of the great preachers." So you would think the young man would examine the lives of Spurgeon, Whitfield, Edwards, Luther, Wesley, Calvin, Knox, Ryle, Ferguson, and MacArthur. But, instead, he focused on Dowie, Parham, Lake, Wigglesworth, Aimee Semple McPherson, Kathryn Kuhlman, and Branham among other Charismatic charlatans. If the Lord appeared at all to Liardon, He must be sorely disappointed in his selections.
He began with John Alexander Dowie and to his credit he shared the worldliness of the man but failed to explain that he developed his faith healing strategies by mimicking spiritist mediums, failed to detail all his heresies, but covered his delusional and heretical belief that he was Elijah the prophet. And STILL Liardon counts him as a "great man of God". You can see where this book is going.
One of "God's Generals" according to Liardon, was Maria Woodworth-Etter. She was a faith healer that encouraged people to fall into trances, be "slain in the spirit", and to speak in tongues. Though she spoke of salvation, I read of no specific call for repentance and the Biblical Gospel message in her writings or Liardon's. When she died she spoke of herself to her close followers but not of Christ. And yet, for Liardon, she was an example for all of us. Like Wigglesworth, she punched people and struck them with her Bible in order to impart the "Holy Spirit's healing power". Signs and wonders was her main ministry and focus. It always amazes me that women "preachers" can teach the Bible but neglect the clear instruction of 1 Timothy 2. It is not a question of CAN a woman preach but SHOULD a woman preach!
The fourth "General" so called by Roberts Liardon is Charles Parham, the infamous founder of modern Pentecostalism. He shared but dismissed many of his scandals (sodomy arrest, supporting the KKK) but his most damaging accomplishment was demanding that tongues precede the baptism of the Holy Spirit and the acceptance of jibberish as tongues instead of actual languages. This false teaching led him to lie about the results of his gifting with tongues and even the disastrous sending out of unprepared "missionaries" who had the "gift" of Chinese and other languages but no formal training. They were sent home in disgrace.
Summing up Liardon's take on his seventh "general", Smith Wigglesworth, to his credit he mentions Smith's inappropriate relationship with at least two women (though he normalizes it) but completely blows it when he explains how Wigglesworth's ignoring the Pentecostal Missionary Union's proper discipline of him was the right thing to do. The Bible is clear on church discipline and the proper behavior of elders. The PMU told Wigglesworth to stop preaching for a time while he sought repentance. He simply refused and quit the PMU. Could this be why the pattern of so many current and past false teachers do the same thing (commit sexual sins and continue in the ministry)? Liardon neglected to discuss Wigglesworth's violent behavior when supposedly casting out demons from sick people, touched on his blaming sick people for not getting healed, and ignored his arrogance. Smith Wigglesworth was a charlatan and a false teacher and has set a poor example that too many false teachers in charismania are more than willing to copy.
Aimee Semple McPherson, the 8th of "God's Generals", according to Roberts Liardon appeared to have moments in her career where she seemed to preach the Gospel - example: "Whatever fancy name you give it, sin is sin . . . God looks on the heart and as for holiness, why, without holiness no man shall see the Lord. We must be saved, we must be sanctified, but 'tis all through the precious atoning blood of Jesus Christ." But the vast majority of her preaching was avoiding talk of sin and hell and preceded Joel Osteen's positive-only messages by a century or so. Many scandals were noted in her career, including: abandoning her husband, divorce, not seeing her two children for at least two years, an association with the KKK, faking an abduction to cover up an affair with a married man, breaking her mother's nose, financial improprieties, questionable healings, and her death by drug overdose. And yet, to Liardon and many Charismatics, she is a general if not a Saint! As Scripture says of false teachers, "by their fruit you will know them."
Ooh! The ninth of Liardon's "God's Generals" is Kathryn Kuhlman! Like Aimee Semple McPherson she starts off by ignoring God's Word in order to preach but then she goes further (as did Aimee) and adds adultery and fornication to her resume. But Liardon, ever the guardian of sinful generals,Generals, explains it with this gem: "Kathyn found herself in a situation where there were lying and deceiving spirits in operation." For "God's Generals" it can't be sin, because even Liardon probably knows that blatant sin disqualifies one from ministry. It's amazing how the patterns developed among these early pioneers of heresy and charlatanism have continued among the Charismatic and NAR "apostles" of today!
Liardon's tenth "General" is heretic William Branham. Liardon starts his mini-biography with this story of a man interrupting one of his "healing services" and accusing him of fakery. But Branham fights back, calling the man Satan and requiring him to bow before him. The man does and the service continues. While Liardon sees this as a humble act and a show of Branham's supernatural abilities, I was led to think of other things like WWE wrestling events where similar interruptions were staged every match. The situation was so perfectly set up and the outcome was so perfect that it had to be staged or perhaps it was a real miracle? Well, the rest of Branham's life and ministry will belie this fact. He had a healing ministry and went about healing. Certainly there were folks that sought such things instead of Gospel preaching and some that were actually healed. But most of the stories contained in this chapter seemed like superstitious events that could be explained other ways or simply made up to prop up a country charlatan. He was severely anti-intellectual, knew very little Bible, but healed people and saw visions. Liardon believes he left his calling and began to teach false doctrine when a close associate left his ministry after four years. However, Branham ministered for over 20 years and his false beliefs were most likely always there. He began his ministry at the urging of an "angel" and continued healing ministry with an occasionally seen angel at his side. His heresies include: hell is not eternal but people in hell will eventually be annihilated, women contained the seed of the serpent because Eve had sex with the serpent to produce Cain, men can freely divorce and remarry but women cannot, church denominations are the mark of the beast, he denied the Trinity, he believed he was the last prophet and that his words could prepare the world for the rapture, and somehow only his mouth could pronounce the real name of God. Liardon believes God took Branham's life to "save him from hell". To that I say, if any of your fellow church members espoused such beliefs, would you assume they were born again? No. You would assume they were lost - even if they miraculously healed people. Satan can do miracles if it leads people away from Almighty God. That's his business! No, Branham was a lost man who no one cared enough about to share the Gospel with because he lived in a time when miracles trumped solid Gospel preaching. Branham was no General!
The 11th of Liardon's "Generals" is Jack Coe. I have never heard of him and I thought he was a rather odd choice for one of his generals. He was a faith healer and had revivals all over the US. Like some other healing evangelists he could be violent (or "reckless and challenging" as Liardon termed it) - "He was often seen hitting people, slapping them, jerking them." But they did not complain and apparently were healed so for Liardon that's good enough. He also was opposed to medicine and doctors but at age 38 when he was diagnosed with polio he sought both though he died shortly afterwards. Though Liardon uses the terms "God", "Holy Spirit", and "Lord" he never quotes Coe as ever speaking the name of Jesus Christ. The only time "Jesus Christ" is mentioned in the article is after Coe's death when he speaks of the family carrying on with the ministry. So not much to report on this general except to wonder why him and not Oral Roberts or Kenneth Hagin.
Here's my final take on A.A. Allen:
“God revealed to me that the things that were hindrances to my ministry . . . were the very same things which were hindering so many thousands of others. At last, here was the price I must pay for the power of God in my life and ministry. The price tag for the miracle-working power of God!”
So, God spoke to A. A. Allen and gave him 13 things to do - 13 things he had to "pay" in order to get "the power of God" in his life - "The price tag for the miracle-working power of God". In my Bible I read of the price that the Lord Jesus paid in full for me and the Holy Spirit that He gave me to indwell me and to provide all the power I will ever need to lead a Godly life and accomplish all He assigns me to do. But I don't read of a price I must pay in order to receive any benefits from God. Ephesians 2:8 says, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God." But for some reason charismatics seem to need more than salvation, they need power – so they seem to seek formulas that give them power. But let's look at the list of things A.A. Allen received from God - by the way, if God truly spoke these things should they not be included in the Bible?
1. He must realize he couldn’t do greater quality miracles than Jesus.
This is an unusual statement from a Charismatic preacher. They typically use John 14:12 as their promise verse to perform greater works than Christ. John 14:12 says, "“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father."” Of course, Charismatics err in thinking this means miracles – instead it most likely refers to preaching the Gospel more and further than Christ ever did. This statement, then, is not bad or heretical in itself. But let’s get to the main point that Allen is purporting – that God spoke to him personally. Hebrews 1:1-2 says, "Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world." Does God still speak to men – to His prophets? Hebrews would say otherwise. God has spoken to us and STILL speaks to us through His Son and through His Word! If the words of the prophets are God’s words then they hold as much weight as Scripture and should be taken with that level of authority and gravity. But, as we shall see, they are not and the words of most prophets actually conflict with the actual Word of God!
2. He could walk as Jesus walked.
1 John 2:6 says, "Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked." This point is, again, not bad or heretical in itself. BUT if it is intended to be a thing Allen must do in order to earn or pay for God’s power – it is, indeed, heretical. Christ is our example of obedience but the only way we can walk as He walked is though the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. And that is a free gift to ALL believers.
3. He must be blameless like God Himself.
Now we’re getting into some heresy. Again, keep in mind that Allen says this is something God told him that it is something he must perform in order to receive God’s power. Can a man be “blameless like God Himself”? Romans 3:10 says otherwise: "As it is written: “None is righteous, no, not one."" Philippians 2:13-15 says, "For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world." Though this verse says Paul wanted the Philippians to be “blameless” he certainly did NOT compare them to God’s blamelessness and said any blamelessness they achieve was due to God’s working in them, and NOT their own hard work and achievement and certainly was not a requirement for obtaining God’s power. Instead, it was God’s indwelling power through the Holy Spirit that gave them the ability to approach a life of blamelessness.
4. He must measure himself to Jesus alone.
This may sound good and even humble but can ANY man actually measure himself in ANY way to Jesus? The only way to do this is to see ourselves as completely unworthy and not deserving of any power that God may give us and yet, this was a work Allen had to engage in to gain God’s power. Nonetheless, Ephesians 4:12-15 says that the Church was given to us: "To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ." So, in that respect, this is a less harmful statement but it is still not a requirement one must fulfill to obtain God’s favor or power. In Ephesians it appears to be a protection from deception.
5. He must deny his fleshly desires with fasting.
Allen apparently struggled with fasting and wanting to eat for a long time. In Liardon’s book the story was told of how he won the battle with fasting by having his wife lock him in the closet. He stayed for hours and the reward was hearing “from God” about the 13 things he had to do to “heal the sick, . . . cast out devils, . . . see mighty miracles, (and have) power over all the power of the enemy”. Could not the desire for such powers be fleshly also? Matthew 7:21-23 says, "“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’" These words appear to be directed at people like A.A. Allen! Again, this is a work that Allen was supposed to accomplish in order to receive power from God.
6. After self-denial, he must follow Jesus seven days a week.
Following the Lord Jesus seven days a week is a very good thing to do but unfortunately is not possible for any of us to accomplish completely and certainly cannot be a requirement to obtain blessings and power from God. Also, none of the disciples nor Paul nor any of the church fathers were able to accomplish this task – but Allen was?
7. Without God, he could do nothing.
This is a truism and Biblical. John 15:5 says, "I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing." However, it is not a concept that I must believe as a prerequisite to obtain something from God.
8. He must do away with sin in his body.
Once again, Allen commits heresy and actually calls God a liar. 1 John 1:8 says, "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." And 1 John 1:10 makes it even more emphatic: “If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” Either God is true and Allen is a liar or Allen continued to be a sinner just like the rest of us. As you read his story in Liardon’s God’s Generals, that answer is obvious.
9. He must not continue in shallow, pointless discussions.
Good advice but not a good work that must be performed in order to obtain a blessing or power from God. 2 Timothy 2:16 says, "However, avoid pointless discussions. For people will become more and more ungodly."
10. He must give his body wholly to God forever.
This is a wonderful goal but one that no one but Christ has ever achieved. Romans 12:1-3 says, "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned." This is a spiritual act, not a good work that one must perform in order to obtain a blessing or power from God. And note the warning in Romans 12:3 – “not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think”. Now THAT would be a great goal for Allen!
11. He must believe all of God’s promises.
Lastly, the 11th good work that Allen must perform is to believe all of God’s promises. Probably not impossible but still a good work that is required of him, supposedly by God, in order to achieve God’s blessings and power. Ephesians 2:8-10 says, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." Salvation and the blessings and power of God are by grace, not a result of good works that we do but A.A. Allen has reduced it to a formula of eleven things a believer does and THEN God will bless and give him power. That is blasphemy! The Lord Jesus Christ performed the only good work possible that could secure ANY blessing for mankind.
12 & 13 are “pet sins” of Allen’s that he was apparently supposed to get under control. My guess is one of his pet sins was alcohol consumption. Based on Liardon’s book, he apparently failed miserably in these final guidelines. And that should be a surprise to no one. Man is incapable of performing good works without the Holy Spirit and certainly cannot bargain with God for purchase of God’s power. That is what Simon the Sorceror tried to do in Acts 8:18-19. It was said of him: "Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, saying, “Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”" Peter’s reaction was swift and applied to Simon the Sorceror, and I daresay, to A.A. Allen and all of his charismatic and NAR fellows as well: “But Peter said to him, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity.”” (Acts 8:20-23). When salvation, the Word of God, and the Holy Spirit are not enough for a believer that believer needs to examine their beliefs to see if they truly trust in Christ alone for salvation!
He began with John Alexander Dowie and to his credit he shared the worldliness of the man but failed to explain that he developed his faith healing strategies by mimicking spiritist mediums, failed to detail all his heresies, but covered his delusional and heretical belief that he was Elijah the prophet. And STILL Liardon counts him as a "great man of God". You can see where this book is going.
One of "God's Generals" according to Liardon, was Maria Woodworth-Etter. She was a faith healer that encouraged people to fall into trances, be "slain in the spirit", and to speak in tongues. Though she spoke of salvation, I read of no specific call for repentance and the Biblical Gospel message in her writings or Liardon's. When she died she spoke of herself to her close followers but not of Christ. And yet, for Liardon, she was an example for all of us. Like Wigglesworth, she punched people and struck them with her Bible in order to impart the "Holy Spirit's healing power". Signs and wonders was her main ministry and focus. It always amazes me that women "preachers" can teach the Bible but neglect the clear instruction of 1 Timothy 2. It is not a question of CAN a woman preach but SHOULD a woman preach!
The fourth "General" so called by Roberts Liardon is Charles Parham, the infamous founder of modern Pentecostalism. He shared but dismissed many of his scandals (sodomy arrest, supporting the KKK) but his most damaging accomplishment was demanding that tongues precede the baptism of the Holy Spirit and the acceptance of jibberish as tongues instead of actual languages. This false teaching led him to lie about the results of his gifting with tongues and even the disastrous sending out of unprepared "missionaries" who had the "gift" of Chinese and other languages but no formal training. They were sent home in disgrace.
Summing up Liardon's take on his seventh "general", Smith Wigglesworth, to his credit he mentions Smith's inappropriate relationship with at least two women (though he normalizes it) but completely blows it when he explains how Wigglesworth's ignoring the Pentecostal Missionary Union's proper discipline of him was the right thing to do. The Bible is clear on church discipline and the proper behavior of elders. The PMU told Wigglesworth to stop preaching for a time while he sought repentance. He simply refused and quit the PMU. Could this be why the pattern of so many current and past false teachers do the same thing (commit sexual sins and continue in the ministry)? Liardon neglected to discuss Wigglesworth's violent behavior when supposedly casting out demons from sick people, touched on his blaming sick people for not getting healed, and ignored his arrogance. Smith Wigglesworth was a charlatan and a false teacher and has set a poor example that too many false teachers in charismania are more than willing to copy.
Aimee Semple McPherson, the 8th of "God's Generals", according to Roberts Liardon appeared to have moments in her career where she seemed to preach the Gospel - example: "Whatever fancy name you give it, sin is sin . . . God looks on the heart and as for holiness, why, without holiness no man shall see the Lord. We must be saved, we must be sanctified, but 'tis all through the precious atoning blood of Jesus Christ." But the vast majority of her preaching was avoiding talk of sin and hell and preceded Joel Osteen's positive-only messages by a century or so. Many scandals were noted in her career, including: abandoning her husband, divorce, not seeing her two children for at least two years, an association with the KKK, faking an abduction to cover up an affair with a married man, breaking her mother's nose, financial improprieties, questionable healings, and her death by drug overdose. And yet, to Liardon and many Charismatics, she is a general if not a Saint! As Scripture says of false teachers, "by their fruit you will know them."
Ooh! The ninth of Liardon's "God's Generals" is Kathryn Kuhlman! Like Aimee Semple McPherson she starts off by ignoring God's Word in order to preach but then she goes further (as did Aimee) and adds adultery and fornication to her resume. But Liardon, ever the guardian of sinful generals,Generals, explains it with this gem: "Kathyn found herself in a situation where there were lying and deceiving spirits in operation." For "God's Generals" it can't be sin, because even Liardon probably knows that blatant sin disqualifies one from ministry. It's amazing how the patterns developed among these early pioneers of heresy and charlatanism have continued among the Charismatic and NAR "apostles" of today!
Liardon's tenth "General" is heretic William Branham. Liardon starts his mini-biography with this story of a man interrupting one of his "healing services" and accusing him of fakery. But Branham fights back, calling the man Satan and requiring him to bow before him. The man does and the service continues. While Liardon sees this as a humble act and a show of Branham's supernatural abilities, I was led to think of other things like WWE wrestling events where similar interruptions were staged every match. The situation was so perfectly set up and the outcome was so perfect that it had to be staged or perhaps it was a real miracle? Well, the rest of Branham's life and ministry will belie this fact. He had a healing ministry and went about healing. Certainly there were folks that sought such things instead of Gospel preaching and some that were actually healed. But most of the stories contained in this chapter seemed like superstitious events that could be explained other ways or simply made up to prop up a country charlatan. He was severely anti-intellectual, knew very little Bible, but healed people and saw visions. Liardon believes he left his calling and began to teach false doctrine when a close associate left his ministry after four years. However, Branham ministered for over 20 years and his false beliefs were most likely always there. He began his ministry at the urging of an "angel" and continued healing ministry with an occasionally seen angel at his side. His heresies include: hell is not eternal but people in hell will eventually be annihilated, women contained the seed of the serpent because Eve had sex with the serpent to produce Cain, men can freely divorce and remarry but women cannot, church denominations are the mark of the beast, he denied the Trinity, he believed he was the last prophet and that his words could prepare the world for the rapture, and somehow only his mouth could pronounce the real name of God. Liardon believes God took Branham's life to "save him from hell". To that I say, if any of your fellow church members espoused such beliefs, would you assume they were born again? No. You would assume they were lost - even if they miraculously healed people. Satan can do miracles if it leads people away from Almighty God. That's his business! No, Branham was a lost man who no one cared enough about to share the Gospel with because he lived in a time when miracles trumped solid Gospel preaching. Branham was no General!
The 11th of Liardon's "Generals" is Jack Coe. I have never heard of him and I thought he was a rather odd choice for one of his generals. He was a faith healer and had revivals all over the US. Like some other healing evangelists he could be violent (or "reckless and challenging" as Liardon termed it) - "He was often seen hitting people, slapping them, jerking them." But they did not complain and apparently were healed so for Liardon that's good enough. He also was opposed to medicine and doctors but at age 38 when he was diagnosed with polio he sought both though he died shortly afterwards. Though Liardon uses the terms "God", "Holy Spirit", and "Lord" he never quotes Coe as ever speaking the name of Jesus Christ. The only time "Jesus Christ" is mentioned in the article is after Coe's death when he speaks of the family carrying on with the ministry. So not much to report on this general except to wonder why him and not Oral Roberts or Kenneth Hagin.
Here's my final take on A.A. Allen:
“God revealed to me that the things that were hindrances to my ministry . . . were the very same things which were hindering so many thousands of others. At last, here was the price I must pay for the power of God in my life and ministry. The price tag for the miracle-working power of God!”
So, God spoke to A. A. Allen and gave him 13 things to do - 13 things he had to "pay" in order to get "the power of God" in his life - "The price tag for the miracle-working power of God". In my Bible I read of the price that the Lord Jesus paid in full for me and the Holy Spirit that He gave me to indwell me and to provide all the power I will ever need to lead a Godly life and accomplish all He assigns me to do. But I don't read of a price I must pay in order to receive any benefits from God. Ephesians 2:8 says, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God." But for some reason charismatics seem to need more than salvation, they need power – so they seem to seek formulas that give them power. But let's look at the list of things A.A. Allen received from God - by the way, if God truly spoke these things should they not be included in the Bible?
1. He must realize he couldn’t do greater quality miracles than Jesus.
This is an unusual statement from a Charismatic preacher. They typically use John 14:12 as their promise verse to perform greater works than Christ. John 14:12 says, "“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father."” Of course, Charismatics err in thinking this means miracles – instead it most likely refers to preaching the Gospel more and further than Christ ever did. This statement, then, is not bad or heretical in itself. But let’s get to the main point that Allen is purporting – that God spoke to him personally. Hebrews 1:1-2 says, "Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world." Does God still speak to men – to His prophets? Hebrews would say otherwise. God has spoken to us and STILL speaks to us through His Son and through His Word! If the words of the prophets are God’s words then they hold as much weight as Scripture and should be taken with that level of authority and gravity. But, as we shall see, they are not and the words of most prophets actually conflict with the actual Word of God!
2. He could walk as Jesus walked.
1 John 2:6 says, "Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked." This point is, again, not bad or heretical in itself. BUT if it is intended to be a thing Allen must do in order to earn or pay for God’s power – it is, indeed, heretical. Christ is our example of obedience but the only way we can walk as He walked is though the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. And that is a free gift to ALL believers.
3. He must be blameless like God Himself.
Now we’re getting into some heresy. Again, keep in mind that Allen says this is something God told him that it is something he must perform in order to receive God’s power. Can a man be “blameless like God Himself”? Romans 3:10 says otherwise: "As it is written: “None is righteous, no, not one."" Philippians 2:13-15 says, "For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world." Though this verse says Paul wanted the Philippians to be “blameless” he certainly did NOT compare them to God’s blamelessness and said any blamelessness they achieve was due to God’s working in them, and NOT their own hard work and achievement and certainly was not a requirement for obtaining God’s power. Instead, it was God’s indwelling power through the Holy Spirit that gave them the ability to approach a life of blamelessness.
4. He must measure himself to Jesus alone.
This may sound good and even humble but can ANY man actually measure himself in ANY way to Jesus? The only way to do this is to see ourselves as completely unworthy and not deserving of any power that God may give us and yet, this was a work Allen had to engage in to gain God’s power. Nonetheless, Ephesians 4:12-15 says that the Church was given to us: "To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ." So, in that respect, this is a less harmful statement but it is still not a requirement one must fulfill to obtain God’s favor or power. In Ephesians it appears to be a protection from deception.
5. He must deny his fleshly desires with fasting.
Allen apparently struggled with fasting and wanting to eat for a long time. In Liardon’s book the story was told of how he won the battle with fasting by having his wife lock him in the closet. He stayed for hours and the reward was hearing “from God” about the 13 things he had to do to “heal the sick, . . . cast out devils, . . . see mighty miracles, (and have) power over all the power of the enemy”. Could not the desire for such powers be fleshly also? Matthew 7:21-23 says, "“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’" These words appear to be directed at people like A.A. Allen! Again, this is a work that Allen was supposed to accomplish in order to receive power from God.
6. After self-denial, he must follow Jesus seven days a week.
Following the Lord Jesus seven days a week is a very good thing to do but unfortunately is not possible for any of us to accomplish completely and certainly cannot be a requirement to obtain blessings and power from God. Also, none of the disciples nor Paul nor any of the church fathers were able to accomplish this task – but Allen was?
7. Without God, he could do nothing.
This is a truism and Biblical. John 15:5 says, "I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing." However, it is not a concept that I must believe as a prerequisite to obtain something from God.
8. He must do away with sin in his body.
Once again, Allen commits heresy and actually calls God a liar. 1 John 1:8 says, "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." And 1 John 1:10 makes it even more emphatic: “If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” Either God is true and Allen is a liar or Allen continued to be a sinner just like the rest of us. As you read his story in Liardon’s God’s Generals, that answer is obvious.
9. He must not continue in shallow, pointless discussions.
Good advice but not a good work that must be performed in order to obtain a blessing or power from God. 2 Timothy 2:16 says, "However, avoid pointless discussions. For people will become more and more ungodly."
10. He must give his body wholly to God forever.
This is a wonderful goal but one that no one but Christ has ever achieved. Romans 12:1-3 says, "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned." This is a spiritual act, not a good work that one must perform in order to obtain a blessing or power from God. And note the warning in Romans 12:3 – “not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think”. Now THAT would be a great goal for Allen!
11. He must believe all of God’s promises.
Lastly, the 11th good work that Allen must perform is to believe all of God’s promises. Probably not impossible but still a good work that is required of him, supposedly by God, in order to achieve God’s blessings and power. Ephesians 2:8-10 says, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." Salvation and the blessings and power of God are by grace, not a result of good works that we do but A.A. Allen has reduced it to a formula of eleven things a believer does and THEN God will bless and give him power. That is blasphemy! The Lord Jesus Christ performed the only good work possible that could secure ANY blessing for mankind.
12 & 13 are “pet sins” of Allen’s that he was apparently supposed to get under control. My guess is one of his pet sins was alcohol consumption. Based on Liardon’s book, he apparently failed miserably in these final guidelines. And that should be a surprise to no one. Man is incapable of performing good works without the Holy Spirit and certainly cannot bargain with God for purchase of God’s power. That is what Simon the Sorceror tried to do in Acts 8:18-19. It was said of him: "Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, saying, “Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”" Peter’s reaction was swift and applied to Simon the Sorceror, and I daresay, to A.A. Allen and all of his charismatic and NAR fellows as well: “But Peter said to him, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity.”” (Acts 8:20-23). When salvation, the Word of God, and the Holy Spirit are not enough for a believer that believer needs to examine their beliefs to see if they truly trust in Christ alone for salvation!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2008
This book gives a short, but thorough description of the lives of 12 men and women who impacted the entire world for God, specifically in the realm of divine healing. The power and authority that God released to these men and women was nothing less than Awesome. Some of them, however, fell away from their divine call. Some used their God given gifts for their own glory and influence and they suffered much for those choices. What I love about this book is that it stretches me to ask God for more of His divine activity through my life, as well as ask Him to establish a greater portion of righteousness within my heart. I'd love to do and see what these ones did and saw, but I don't want to make the same mistakes they did. The book clearly shows both sides.
January 21, 2017
This should be a required book to read by every minister! Period.
March 23, 2024
Dette er en spennende, interessant og lettlest bok om den mer karismatiske fløys historie innenfor kristenheten. Boken gir innsikt i liv og tjeneste til et utvalg personer som Gud brukte mektig for å fremme sitt rike på jord. Boken glorifiserer ikke bare, men gir oss innblikk i de harde og tøffe kår de vokste opp i, og hvordan flere av de avsluttet livet på en mer eller mindre tragisk måte, i åndelig havari, forførelse eller at de eterhvert havnet ut i merkelige ubibelske læresetninger.
Boken gir et ærlig innblikk i livene deres og hvordan Gud kan bruke noen som i seg selv akter seg som intet, og hvordan Gud kan ta noen som ser ut til å være ubrukelig i denne verdens øyne og bruke vedkommende til noe stort i Guds rike. Boken viser klart at med et slikt Gudommelig kall følger det også med et stort ansvar og boken retter også søkelyset mot de fallgruver som flere av disse opplevde underveis og spesielt mot slutten av livene sine. Vi møter noen "Salomoer" og "Sauler", som begynte bra, men endte ikke like bra.
Jeg er ytterst skeptisk til mye av moderne tids karismatikk, noe forfatteren Roberts Liardon dessverre er endel av, ved at han bl.a. ser ut til å omfavne forkynnere som Benny Hinn. Liardon har ihvertfall skrevet en ryddig, ærlig og redelig bok om et viktig stykke moderne kirkehistorie. Disse evangelistene som Gud brukte er også blitt forbilder for flere moderne helbredelsespredikanter innenfor den karismatiske fløy. Selvom noen kritikere av den moderne karismatiske bevegelsen vil kunne dra alle disse over en kam og påstå at dette bare er forførelse og ikke fra Gud, fordi moderne karismatikere ser opp til dem, eller at møtene kan tolkes til å ligne mer på et show, eller at falskheten bevises med tanke på noen av deres tragiske nedturer og avslutninger på livet og tjenesten, så synes jeg at det er et altfor bastant og svart hvitt bilde på saken. Det er ikke et lett kall Gud kaller når Han kaller til en tjenste som disse stod i. Da vil man møte på fristelser underveis som har å gjøre med usunn popularitet, kjærlighet til penger, ære, stolthet osv, og dessverre er det noen som havner i disse syndene, og noen forblir der og ender sin virksomhet i havari. Jeg ville aldri våge og forkaste hele tjenesten til en slik person bare fordi tjenesten så ut til å ende dårlig. Vi leser jo i boken hvordan synden mistet sin kraft i samfunnet ved at bl.a. puber og fengsle måtte stenge fordi mange ble frelst. Vi ser hvordan Gud virket i folket, hvordan enorme helbredelser skjedde, og selvfølgelig kunne det skje helbredelser i placeboform, men flere av helbredelsene er vanskelig å bortforklare med tanke på det, og flere av helbredelsene har også blitt bekreftet av leger, også til legenes store overraskelse.
Noe av det mer positive med disse er at deres tjeneste hadde minimal fokus på penger, og noen av disse la kun pengebehovene sine fram for Gud og så forsørget Han. Dette er en av de store kontrastene med mange av dagens karismatiske predikanter. En annen ting som disse fokuserte på var omvendelse fra synd og helliggjørelse, noe man sjelden hører dagens karismatiske predikanter forkynne om. Vi får også innsikt i det samvittighetsfulle livet mange av de vi leser om levde, og til tider gikk dette også litt for langt.
Gjennom denne boken kan vi også lære av deres feiltrinn, noen grove, noen mindre grove og vite at selv en som er født på ny kan fare vill, og bli fristet til mangen synd, og mens vi er kalt til å seire, skjer det dessverre at noen faller, og noen reiser seg igjen, mens andre blir liggende i frafallets grav. La oss passe på oss selv og vårt liv med Herren og når jeg sammenligner mitt liv med disse så blir jeg ganske liten, men samtidig skal vi heldigvis ikke sammenligne oss med disse, men med Jesus, ha fokuset på Ham, søke Ham og la Ham få forme oss mer lik Ham. Vi må samtidig være på vakt slik at ikke fienden overlister oss eller forfører oss fra vår stilling innfor Gud.
Forfatteren glorifiserer nok noen mer moderne forkynnere som jeg tar sterk avstand fra, og jeg tar heller ikke alt for "god fisk" rundt de evangelistene som blir beskrevet i boken som i det store og hele er å anbefale. Forfatteren ser også ut til å være tilhenger av den ubibelske "Once Saved Always Saved" læren. Men, les gjerne boken, men med en sunn skepsis. For meg var den både inspirerende og lærerrik, et viktig stykke vekkelseshistorie.
Boken gir et ærlig innblikk i livene deres og hvordan Gud kan bruke noen som i seg selv akter seg som intet, og hvordan Gud kan ta noen som ser ut til å være ubrukelig i denne verdens øyne og bruke vedkommende til noe stort i Guds rike. Boken viser klart at med et slikt Gudommelig kall følger det også med et stort ansvar og boken retter også søkelyset mot de fallgruver som flere av disse opplevde underveis og spesielt mot slutten av livene sine. Vi møter noen "Salomoer" og "Sauler", som begynte bra, men endte ikke like bra.
Jeg er ytterst skeptisk til mye av moderne tids karismatikk, noe forfatteren Roberts Liardon dessverre er endel av, ved at han bl.a. ser ut til å omfavne forkynnere som Benny Hinn. Liardon har ihvertfall skrevet en ryddig, ærlig og redelig bok om et viktig stykke moderne kirkehistorie. Disse evangelistene som Gud brukte er også blitt forbilder for flere moderne helbredelsespredikanter innenfor den karismatiske fløy. Selvom noen kritikere av den moderne karismatiske bevegelsen vil kunne dra alle disse over en kam og påstå at dette bare er forførelse og ikke fra Gud, fordi moderne karismatikere ser opp til dem, eller at møtene kan tolkes til å ligne mer på et show, eller at falskheten bevises med tanke på noen av deres tragiske nedturer og avslutninger på livet og tjenesten, så synes jeg at det er et altfor bastant og svart hvitt bilde på saken. Det er ikke et lett kall Gud kaller når Han kaller til en tjenste som disse stod i. Da vil man møte på fristelser underveis som har å gjøre med usunn popularitet, kjærlighet til penger, ære, stolthet osv, og dessverre er det noen som havner i disse syndene, og noen forblir der og ender sin virksomhet i havari. Jeg ville aldri våge og forkaste hele tjenesten til en slik person bare fordi tjenesten så ut til å ende dårlig. Vi leser jo i boken hvordan synden mistet sin kraft i samfunnet ved at bl.a. puber og fengsle måtte stenge fordi mange ble frelst. Vi ser hvordan Gud virket i folket, hvordan enorme helbredelser skjedde, og selvfølgelig kunne det skje helbredelser i placeboform, men flere av helbredelsene er vanskelig å bortforklare med tanke på det, og flere av helbredelsene har også blitt bekreftet av leger, også til legenes store overraskelse.
Noe av det mer positive med disse er at deres tjeneste hadde minimal fokus på penger, og noen av disse la kun pengebehovene sine fram for Gud og så forsørget Han. Dette er en av de store kontrastene med mange av dagens karismatiske predikanter. En annen ting som disse fokuserte på var omvendelse fra synd og helliggjørelse, noe man sjelden hører dagens karismatiske predikanter forkynne om. Vi får også innsikt i det samvittighetsfulle livet mange av de vi leser om levde, og til tider gikk dette også litt for langt.
Gjennom denne boken kan vi også lære av deres feiltrinn, noen grove, noen mindre grove og vite at selv en som er født på ny kan fare vill, og bli fristet til mangen synd, og mens vi er kalt til å seire, skjer det dessverre at noen faller, og noen reiser seg igjen, mens andre blir liggende i frafallets grav. La oss passe på oss selv og vårt liv med Herren og når jeg sammenligner mitt liv med disse så blir jeg ganske liten, men samtidig skal vi heldigvis ikke sammenligne oss med disse, men med Jesus, ha fokuset på Ham, søke Ham og la Ham få forme oss mer lik Ham. Vi må samtidig være på vakt slik at ikke fienden overlister oss eller forfører oss fra vår stilling innfor Gud.
Forfatteren glorifiserer nok noen mer moderne forkynnere som jeg tar sterk avstand fra, og jeg tar heller ikke alt for "god fisk" rundt de evangelistene som blir beskrevet i boken som i det store og hele er å anbefale. Forfatteren ser også ut til å være tilhenger av den ubibelske "Once Saved Always Saved" læren. Men, les gjerne boken, men med en sunn skepsis. For meg var den både inspirerende og lærerrik, et viktig stykke vekkelseshistorie.
January 27, 2025
Warum hatten manche großen Evangelisten Erfolg und warum sind andere am Ende ihres Lebens tragisch gescheitert? Ein inspirierendes Must read meiner Meinung nach.
March 8, 2017
Excellent book about the ups and downs of ministry for people anointed by God. The lives of these individuals and the things that God did through them is fascinating. Liardon does a great job presenting both their flaws and their successes. There is much insight to be gained for Christian readers to see how God uses people powerfully that devote themselves to Him. The stories themselves made this book hard to put down for me. Highly recommend.
August 15, 2016
Enjoyed reading about Success and Cried about the Failures.
God's calling is there and if we are called, we are equipped, however we fail when we don't rely and trust God. Simple as that. We, as people & humans, make things difficult.
Smith Wigglesworth, WoW! What an interesting story, Praise God for his wife, Polley!
God's calling is there and if we are called, we are equipped, however we fail when we don't rely and trust God. Simple as that. We, as people & humans, make things difficult.
Smith Wigglesworth, WoW! What an interesting story, Praise God for his wife, Polley!
March 2, 2017
Amazing Book 5 Stars would recommend!
April 18, 2011
I had no idea the church Body had such a colorful historicity. This book deals with that history in the period of the late 19th century to the late 20th century. I don't know why we do not reference these people and the movements they were part of more often. How the past fades, the past fades in our memories.
I am most impressed with the people who have the least flaws. The people who seemed to truly seek God's will in their life for the entire span of their lives — they ran with patience.
John Alexander Dowie was portrayed as an immensely powerful man, who was also immensely stubborn. He held Chicago in the palm of his hand, for a season. His stubbornness was they key to his success and his failure. How a man could come to believe he was Elijah, then on his death bed reveal with his last words his belief that he was Jesus, is simply beyond me. Perhaps he had had a stroke—surely he could not become so deluded naturally. Zion, Illinois is a place I would like to visit one day, simply out of curiosity.
Marie Woodworth-Etter was portrayed as the most saintly person in the book. I believe it is for this reason that she held such influence on people—especially future ministers. The trance phenomenon surrounding her ministry is fascinating. I would like to find more books—and wow, would I like to find her own rare works which Liardon mentioned he has copies of!
Evan Roberts was a strange man. He so sought to live in the Spirit that I see him as a man that was lost in a fog in this world. How bizarre was his relationship with Mrs. Jessie Penn-Lewis! Success brings them out of the woodwork. If only it were not for her, I wonder how Roberts' life would have differed. I too wonder if the dark poetry found upon his death in his notebook has ever been published.
Charles F. Parham, in my opinion, should have stayed away from Zion, Illinois. Wilbur Voliva certainly had it in for him with his sodomy accusation. So many of these men and women seemed to thrive on adversity, seeking it until it finally did them in. Persecution seems to do very many Christians in. Here are my thoughts on the matter: Had Parham's enemies had real proof of his being arrested for sodomy, they would not have posted signed confessions, but the actual police report.
William J. Seymour and Azusa Street are probably the most widely circulated nouns in charismatic circles. This was the first I had really delved into the story. I am shocked at the ultimate fate of the Azusa Street Mission. It seemingly all hinged on Seymour's interpretation of sanctification. I believe the actual consequences that stemmed from his belief, show how his doctrine was flawed. Here too is a point—padlocking is indirect criticism, with much more severe undertones than direct criticism. Seymour wasn't quite logical when it came to this.
John G. Lake was one of the most impressive figures here, in my opinion. It is very sad what took place in Africa. Out of Africa...
Smith Wigglesworth was a very impressive fellow as well. His belief that "True faith confronts, and it is ignited by initiative" motivated him to achieve amazing acts. Faith + Compassion = miracles.
Aimee Semple McPherson was very strange — Hollywood strange made even more strange by Pentecostal strangeness. A fascinating life.
Kathryn Kuhlman is contained within my mother's library. I'll have to investigate. Poor Kathryn finally rid herself of "man problems". I did not know that she had risen to such secular realms in the late 20th century. Those clips too would be interesting to dig up.
William Branham is one of the most intriguing people in the book. It is the strange lights, the angel beside him, the paranormal picture, the vibrating hand. The supernatural surrounded this guy; and yet he wanted to teach. He felt, looking around him, there was not enough substance. Tragic. I believe had he gone about being taught in a proper way, God would have given him his heart's desire - to be a teacher. Unfortunately, in this area Branham was an idiot, from the Greek "idiote" —full of his own foolish thoughts. The picture with the anomaly over Branham's head is chilling. I would like to collect more on the life and ministry of Branham.
Jack Coe was quite a guy for God. I find it very amusing that the US Army kept sticking him in psych wards. This didn't phase him though! It was also entertaining, Coe's obsession with tent-size.
My Uncle, The late Reverend Boyd McClaren traveled with A.A. Allen and W.V. Grant. He was Allen's morning speaker. He eventually left Allen due to his drinking. It is my opinion that Liardon does not have very good information pertaining to Allen's drinking. He downplays it, making it seem to be mostly a conspiracy against his ministry. Allen had quite a ministry, whether he was a raging alcoholic or no.
I have not touched upon the true substance of this book. That is, God's calling, the answer, stepping out in faith, and where that leads to. By the evidence provided, we can believe that it leads to being filled with the Holy Spirit, and miracles of an amazing variety. The stories within this volume are priceless.
I am most impressed with the people who have the least flaws. The people who seemed to truly seek God's will in their life for the entire span of their lives — they ran with patience.
John Alexander Dowie was portrayed as an immensely powerful man, who was also immensely stubborn. He held Chicago in the palm of his hand, for a season. His stubbornness was they key to his success and his failure. How a man could come to believe he was Elijah, then on his death bed reveal with his last words his belief that he was Jesus, is simply beyond me. Perhaps he had had a stroke—surely he could not become so deluded naturally. Zion, Illinois is a place I would like to visit one day, simply out of curiosity.
Marie Woodworth-Etter was portrayed as the most saintly person in the book. I believe it is for this reason that she held such influence on people—especially future ministers. The trance phenomenon surrounding her ministry is fascinating. I would like to find more books—and wow, would I like to find her own rare works which Liardon mentioned he has copies of!
Evan Roberts was a strange man. He so sought to live in the Spirit that I see him as a man that was lost in a fog in this world. How bizarre was his relationship with Mrs. Jessie Penn-Lewis! Success brings them out of the woodwork. If only it were not for her, I wonder how Roberts' life would have differed. I too wonder if the dark poetry found upon his death in his notebook has ever been published.
Charles F. Parham, in my opinion, should have stayed away from Zion, Illinois. Wilbur Voliva certainly had it in for him with his sodomy accusation. So many of these men and women seemed to thrive on adversity, seeking it until it finally did them in. Persecution seems to do very many Christians in. Here are my thoughts on the matter: Had Parham's enemies had real proof of his being arrested for sodomy, they would not have posted signed confessions, but the actual police report.
William J. Seymour and Azusa Street are probably the most widely circulated nouns in charismatic circles. This was the first I had really delved into the story. I am shocked at the ultimate fate of the Azusa Street Mission. It seemingly all hinged on Seymour's interpretation of sanctification. I believe the actual consequences that stemmed from his belief, show how his doctrine was flawed. Here too is a point—padlocking is indirect criticism, with much more severe undertones than direct criticism. Seymour wasn't quite logical when it came to this.
John G. Lake was one of the most impressive figures here, in my opinion. It is very sad what took place in Africa. Out of Africa...
Smith Wigglesworth was a very impressive fellow as well. His belief that "True faith confronts, and it is ignited by initiative" motivated him to achieve amazing acts. Faith + Compassion = miracles.
Aimee Semple McPherson was very strange — Hollywood strange made even more strange by Pentecostal strangeness. A fascinating life.
Kathryn Kuhlman is contained within my mother's library. I'll have to investigate. Poor Kathryn finally rid herself of "man problems". I did not know that she had risen to such secular realms in the late 20th century. Those clips too would be interesting to dig up.
William Branham is one of the most intriguing people in the book. It is the strange lights, the angel beside him, the paranormal picture, the vibrating hand. The supernatural surrounded this guy; and yet he wanted to teach. He felt, looking around him, there was not enough substance. Tragic. I believe had he gone about being taught in a proper way, God would have given him his heart's desire - to be a teacher. Unfortunately, in this area Branham was an idiot, from the Greek "idiote" —full of his own foolish thoughts. The picture with the anomaly over Branham's head is chilling. I would like to collect more on the life and ministry of Branham.
Jack Coe was quite a guy for God. I find it very amusing that the US Army kept sticking him in psych wards. This didn't phase him though! It was also entertaining, Coe's obsession with tent-size.
My Uncle, The late Reverend Boyd McClaren traveled with A.A. Allen and W.V. Grant. He was Allen's morning speaker. He eventually left Allen due to his drinking. It is my opinion that Liardon does not have very good information pertaining to Allen's drinking. He downplays it, making it seem to be mostly a conspiracy against his ministry. Allen had quite a ministry, whether he was a raging alcoholic or no.
I have not touched upon the true substance of this book. That is, God's calling, the answer, stepping out in faith, and where that leads to. By the evidence provided, we can believe that it leads to being filled with the Holy Spirit, and miracles of an amazing variety. The stories within this volume are priceless.
June 8, 2017
The Evangelical in me appreciated the book, but someone of a different denomination might not find it equally inspiring.
July 19, 2024
I can sum the whole book with these verses:
“Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.”
John 14:12 NIV
“He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it.”
Mark 16:15-18, 20 NIV
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.””
Matthew 28:18-20 NIV
The Lord was with them.
“Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.”
John 14:12 NIV
“He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it.”
Mark 16:15-18, 20 NIV
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.””
Matthew 28:18-20 NIV
The Lord was with them.
April 5, 2014
hmm, Where can i start.. I was really humbled and challenged by the stories of the great men and women. Faith that moved mountains, Healing miracles that shut critics up. Even when things were not going well and in front of opposition, this people still going. I was really painful to know that other people (Christians) who lacks understanding, without knowledge of what the power of the Holy spirit, were part of those persecuting them.
One must always stay connected to the holy spirit at all times. the devil used the weakness of those that failed against them. Fear, pride, love of money and that spirit that make people feel the work of God will suffer if they rest the body. It's only by the grace of God.
Thank God for your life Robert.
One must always stay connected to the holy spirit at all times. the devil used the weakness of those that failed against them. Fear, pride, love of money and that spirit that make people feel the work of God will suffer if they rest the body. It's only by the grace of God.
Thank God for your life Robert.
April 22, 2016
Loved it!
Loved reading about it these great men and women of God. The author is great but I just wish he offered less of his own opinions and trust that the reader could draw their own conclusions and gain spiritual insights without his own opinions. I wanted more info, more experiences, more info on their personal disciplines, and less commentary. I loved hearing of how each person approached God and their own journey. I learned a lot from this book. I also read the Healing Revivalist God's General written by the same author and loved it! I also recently purchase God's General Evangelist as well and can't wait to read it! Awesome inspiring read!
Loved reading about it these great men and women of God. The author is great but I just wish he offered less of his own opinions and trust that the reader could draw their own conclusions and gain spiritual insights without his own opinions. I wanted more info, more experiences, more info on their personal disciplines, and less commentary. I loved hearing of how each person approached God and their own journey. I learned a lot from this book. I also read the Healing Revivalist God's General written by the same author and loved it! I also recently purchase God's General Evangelist as well and can't wait to read it! Awesome inspiring read!
October 25, 2020
A must read for any thirty and hungry Christian who desires to see the the raw manifestation of the power of God as of old times.
The book equally explores the great ministers of God whom God used in birthing revival and demonstrating diverse dimensions of Himself around the world. It also ventures into detailing the points at which some of these great revivalists missed their steps, pointing it out elaborately that the present day minister may learn from their flaws.
It is indeed a good read.
Ekeh, Bright O.
25/10/2020
Twitter: @BishopOB_Ekeh
Facebook: Bright O. Ekeh
Instagram: ekehbright
The book equally explores the great ministers of God whom God used in birthing revival and demonstrating diverse dimensions of Himself around the world. It also ventures into detailing the points at which some of these great revivalists missed their steps, pointing it out elaborately that the present day minister may learn from their flaws.
It is indeed a good read.
Ekeh, Bright O.
25/10/2020
Twitter: @BishopOB_Ekeh
Facebook: Bright O. Ekeh
Instagram: ekehbright
January 2, 2010
The book chronicles the twelve very influential people Christian Church History that had sings and wonders manifested as part of their ministries. It is a GOOD read because it points out both their successes and their failures. It is a GREAT reference, that you will find yourself consulting again and again, as these names (like John G. Lake, Kathryn Kuhlman and John Alexander Dowie) are brought up by many other authors.
This book reveals keen insight into how the modern day church has arrived at its current location.
This book reveals keen insight into how the modern day church has arrived at its current location.
March 26, 2012
This is an excellent book. Features 12 mini biographies of some of the most spiritual revival ministers in history. This book was not what I envisioned when I picked it up, it was much more. Indispensable to any library of religious history. Inspires me to go out and find out more about the people that are covered in this edition. The author is obviously well versed in his subject and has a writing style that flows very well. The only drawback to this book is that only a chapter is devoted to each of these interesting and inspiring people.
October 28, 2019
The retelling of these humble, yet God fearing, God believing people is inspiring! There are historical recountings of 12 healers who walked in the spirit and loved God, turned all glory to God and love His sheep. They spurned greater desire and hope within me for an outpouring in this generation. God is the same yesterday, today and forever!
This is a must read for those who want to make greater impact on this world. Wonderful!
This is a must read for those who want to make greater impact on this world. Wonderful!
January 3, 2009
If you ever want to learn about the Historical Great Christians that came before us and learn about their lives, successes and failures, you MUST read this book. I learned so much about the power of the Holy Spirit and what earnestly seeking Him and having a relationship with God looks like. Excellent book!
January 21, 2011
This is a great book outlining the lives of some of God's Generals. It's not only a biographical work but one of life lessons for any person pursuing the ministry. This book will give you insight of the cost to have a miraculous ministry. I recommend this book to any believer or non believer that's interested in Church History or the Miraculous.
September 16, 2015
Amazing
I couldn't put this down. Holy Spirit is all over this book and it is wonderful. I learned so much from these past men and women of God . After every chapter I found myself reflecting over my own personal walk with God and praying for his help and guidance. Plus the history is just fascinating! God is so good. Thank you for this book!
I couldn't put this down. Holy Spirit is all over this book and it is wonderful. I learned so much from these past men and women of God . After every chapter I found myself reflecting over my own personal walk with God and praying for his help and guidance. Plus the history is just fascinating! God is so good. Thank you for this book!
October 18, 2016
This is undoubtedly one of the greatest books of all time. Reading this book will, simply put, alter your life and set your heart on fire for God! The graphic biographical sketch of the lives of these great men and women of God is equivalent to a thousand sermons! Every born again Christian must read this book!
Read
August 20, 2009A must read. Incredible life stories of heroes of the faith from *our time* (past century or so). Very encouraging and inspiring. This will undoubtedly expand your faith for what God wants to do through your life.
September 23, 2013
I could have weep after reading this book. Thank God I'm a man. I must for every Minister of God. Let him that thinks he stand s be careful lest he falls.
August 7, 2020
So Insightful !!
October 27, 2022
This book was actually an amazing book! Getting to hear about the lives of these amazing revivalists was so cool! I think a major reason the author decided to write this book was that people tend to only hear about the miracles these people have done or how many people they were able to bring to christ instead of their full lives and the little details we miss out on.
I loved the way the author remained respectful even when bringing up things that were controversial. I think it is super important to have that skill when writing about someone's life like that. They know ok they did this and it was wrong however i am still going to be respectful and keep unbiased about the whole situation.
A Strength in the book is the thing I mentioned above. Being respectful even when the person he was writing about could have been totally off. Another strength would be how he structured the book. He made sure he got all the information correct and did it in chronological order!
A weakness I'd say has nothing to do with the author. I couldn't find many things as he was unbiased throughout. But it was interesting as most of the revivalists all had something to say against each other. Looking at Dowie towards Sister Etter was quite disturbing but also really interesting.
This book really impacted me by showing that you don't have to believe in the same things as other revivalists to do as powerful things as them. Also not to judge them. All those people did amazing things even if some of the things that they said or did weren't super cool you know. I think it just goes to show that your weaknesses don't take away what you can offer to this world.
I loved the way the author remained respectful even when bringing up things that were controversial. I think it is super important to have that skill when writing about someone's life like that. They know ok they did this and it was wrong however i am still going to be respectful and keep unbiased about the whole situation.
A Strength in the book is the thing I mentioned above. Being respectful even when the person he was writing about could have been totally off. Another strength would be how he structured the book. He made sure he got all the information correct and did it in chronological order!
A weakness I'd say has nothing to do with the author. I couldn't find many things as he was unbiased throughout. But it was interesting as most of the revivalists all had something to say against each other. Looking at Dowie towards Sister Etter was quite disturbing but also really interesting.
This book really impacted me by showing that you don't have to believe in the same things as other revivalists to do as powerful things as them. Also not to judge them. All those people did amazing things even if some of the things that they said or did weren't super cool you know. I think it just goes to show that your weaknesses don't take away what you can offer to this world.
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