In recent times, there has been a growing concern among Christians about certain preachers who are perceived to be distorting Biblical teachings for personal gain. One such figure that has come under scrutiny is TD Jakes, accused of manipulating the Bible to make money.

Many attendees of TD Jakes’ sermons have started to question the authenticity of what they observe and encounter during his services. They argue that the power they experience in church is not found in the Bible. This discrepancy has led to a call for scrutiny of the motives and understanding of those organizing such services.

Take, for instance, TD Jakes’ guest preaching at Keen Henderson’s Church in Houston. Observers have questioned the Biblical basis of what was witnessed and heard during his sermon. Phrases like, “I’m here to lay my hand on you because God wants you to have something,” have been criticized for lacking scriptural justification. Critics argue that instead of offering something that lacks a Biblical basis, preachers should focus on giving God’s word and cultivating a hunger for it among the congregation.

Scripture compares the desire for the word of God to newborn babies longing for pure milk to grow in respect to salvation. A pastor, as a shepherd and teacher, must possess the ability to teach and nurture this desire, rather than facilitating fleeting emotional highs that dissipate by the end of the week. The sustaining power of the word, rather than emotional experiences, should be the focus.

TD Jakes’ practices, such as encouraging the congregation to shout for blessings, have been labeled as cheap tricks used to manipulate the atmosphere. Critics argue that these actions are not Biblically supported and serve to provoke a reaction rather than genuine spiritual growth. This kind of emotional manipulation can lead people to conform and shout, believing they are experiencing something profound.

Furthermore, comparisons to Biblical apostles have been made, noting that while apostles laid hands on people to confirm or verify salvation and healing, these actions were genuine and not for display. Critics argue that TD Jakes’ approach, which includes encouraging the congregation to shout until they experience deliverance or healing, is not seen in the Bible and serves as a manipulative tactic.

There is also concern about the practice of naming, claiming, and confessing blessings, which is absent from the scriptures. This practice is often used to provoke a reaction and make people believe they need to give money to receive blessings. Critics emphasize that nowhere in the Bible does it say to sow a seed to receive something or shout and holler to gain something.

Paul’s warning in Romans 16:18 about deceivers who, by smooth and flattering speech, deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting, resonates with those who view TD Jakes’ practices as exploitative. They argue that people are drawn into these teachings, believing they will receive a five-fold return on their blessings, only to be exploited for their money.

In conclusion, critics urge believers to focus on genuine Biblical teachings and avoid churches that emphasize prosperity over piety. They encourage support for preachers who uphold Biblical truth and integrity. Authentic faith should not be about manipulating God’s will to align with personal desires, but about trusting God’s plan, even when it doesn’t align with personal goals.

The debate over TD Jakes’ practices serves as a reminder to Christians to scrutinize the teachings they follow and ensure their faith is rooted in the true word of God.