Vandals Desecrate Site Revered by Jews and Christians

In a distressing incident that has alarmed both Jews and Christians, a group of Palestinian rioters targeted Joshua’s Altar, a revered site located at Mount Ebal in the West Bank. Last week, the vandals burned tires on the remains of the altar and defaced it with Palestinian flags and Arabic inscriptions, as reported by the Jerusalem Post.

This sacred site, under joint control with the Palestinian Authority, has unfortunately become a target for repeated vandalism. The incident is part of a larger problem involving attacks on Israeli archaeological sites within Palestinian-controlled areas, according to a report from Tazpit Press Service (TPS).

Israeli activists from the Forum for the Struggle for Every Dunam visited the damaged altar, urging Israel to enhance measures for the protection of sacred sites. Expressing concern, Dr. Petra Heldt emphasized the significance of the altar to the Jewish people and echoed the call for increased security measures.

“Unfortunately, Jewish and Christian holy places are repeatedly targeted by Muslim settlers, such as the Tomb of Rachel near Bethlehem, the Tombs of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, Sarah, Lea, and Rebecca in Hebron, the Tomb of Josef in Shechem (Nablus) and many others,” Heldt told Fox News Digital.

“It is a consistent pattern that shows that there is a wish to eliminate the existence of Jewish and Christian history in Eretz Israel, the historic land of the Jewish people. Therefore, this holy place must be secured, like other holy places in Israel, from Palestinian vandalism.”

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Despite the usual challenges, the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas on Israel has greatly intensified hostilities in the region.

“The altar goes back to the time of Joshua (1400 B.C.) who led the Jewish people from exile into the Promised Land,” Heldt said. “It is immediately necessary that the site should get proper protection from such vandalism. A permanent Jewish presence established on and around Mount Ebal will permanently secure that holy place for Jews and Christians.”

Amid these troubling events, it is essential for Christians to reflect on the biblical perspective regarding God’s love for Israel (Deut. 14:2). The Bible emphasizes the special relationship between God and the people of Israel (Ps. 135:4). Standing by our Jewish brothers and sisters is not only an expression of solidarity but is rooted in the teachings of the Word of God.

The Scriptures reveal the covenant between God and the offspring of Abraham (Gen. 12:7), emphasizing the importance of supporting and praying for the well-being of the land and its people. As Christians, understanding the biblical narrative strengthens our commitment to peace, unity and the shared values that bind Jews and Christians together.

In these challenging times, the call to stand by Israel remains steadfast. As tensions persist, believers are encouraged to seek understanding, pray for peace, and embody the principles of love and compassion exemplified in the teachings of the Bible.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Prepare for Simultaneous Revolutions in 2024

Pastor Todd Coconato recently shared a prophetic word for 2024 in an interview with Charisma News.

Within this prophetic insight, he shares what the Lord has put on his heart for the upcoming year and discusses his insights and offers guidance on how to navigate the turbulent times ahead while remaining steadfast in our faith.

Two Simultaneous Revolutions

Pastor Coconato believes that 2024 will bring about two simultaneous revolutions: increased turbulence and an increased hunger for righteousness among the body of Christ. On one hand, we will witness unrest and various challenges; on the other hand, we will see increased revival and awakening within the church.

“We’re going to continue to see increased turbulence, there’s going to be a much more bumpy ride this next year. And we should anticipate that but at the same time, the saints that are what I call ‘remnant people,’ people that hunger and thirst for righteousness, the body of Christ, the real ecclesia, the body, they have been strengthened and fortified in their faith over the last few years, because of some of the crazy things that we’ve been through,” Coconato shares.

Preparing for the Storm

To prepare for the coming storm, Pastor Coconato urges believers to consecrate themselves and restore the foundations of their faith. He emphasizes the importance of holiness, no compromise and no leaven in these trying times. This is not a time for greasy grace, but rather a time for the church to be serious about their walk with the Lord.

“I think that God has allowed this time for us to really go into the secret place and get deeper in His word, because otherwise you couldn’t make it. You know, we’ve got to have a strong walk with the Lord and be unshakable,” Coconato says.

Tornadoes in the Spirit

As we approach 2024, we can expect spiritual tornadoes in the form of increased persecution of those who speak truth and those who stand for righteousness. The spirit of the Antichrist is rising, and it’s targeting Bible-believing Christians. In this late hour, it’s crucial for believers to be fortified in the Word and trust in their faith in Jesus Christ more than ever.

“It’s the spirit of the Antichrist, which is really rising. In this late hour, and we’ve always known that the target is Bible believing Christians, it’s the church. And so in the past, this was a little bit more hidden, you know, we kind of thought maybe left versus right, or it’s a political issue. But this is definitely a spiritual matter,” Coconato reveals.

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A Movie, a Warning and a Prayer

Pastor Coconato points out a recent Netflix movie produced by the Obamas that highlights a large-scale cyber event in the United States. He believes that the enemy may be signaling their wicked agenda or plans through such media. As Christians, we must pray against these plans and intercede for protection and guidance.

“When I see these types of things, I think about Event 201 that happened pre-pandemic, I feel like they signal sometimes they’re wicked agenda or their plans. And so what we can do when we see these types of things is we can pray against the wicked agenda, we can pray against the plans,” Coconato says.

Hearing from the Lord

Pastor Coconato emphasizes the importance of hearing from the Lord, rather than relying solely on someone else’s prophetic word. We must have a regular prayer life, be in the Word of God, and worship the Lord to hear His voice and receive His guidance.

“We have to hear from the Lord, we have to be in prayer regularly, we got to have a regular prayer life. I’m talking every day, in the Word of God, you know, worshiping the Lord and hearing from Him. The Bible says, My sheep hear my voice. …But here’s the good news, is that we press in more than ever in prayer. We fast we do the things that the Scripture says, we actually walk this out in a way that the Bible tells us to do you know, with the tools that the Lord gives us. And as we do that, the favor and the blessing of the Lord is on us,” instructs Coconato.

As we face the challenges of 2024, we must remember that God’s favor and blessing are on those who are about the business of the Lord. We must focus on our calling and walk it out faithfully, not comparing ourselves to others or being swayed by vain imaginations.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Fox News Promotes Occult Practice On Primetime Television

What does it say when the world’s largest “conservative” news network openly practices the occult during it’s primetime television slot?

Well, it shows you the sad spiritual state that American conservatism is in.

In a recent Fox News primetime show, host Jesse Watters invited a medium to predict former President Donald Trump’s chances for the presidency in 2024 using tarot cards. The segment drew criticism from Christian media for its promotion of occult practices and mediums, which the Bible warns against.

In Deuteronomy 18:10-12, it is stated, “There must not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or who uses divination, or uses witchcraft, or an interpreter of omens, or a sorcerer, or one who casts spells, or a spiritualist, or an occultist, or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination to the Lord, and because of these abominations the Lord your God will drive them out from before you.”

The use of mediums, fortune-telling and mysticism is not only condemned in the Bible but also considered spiritually harmful to those who practice or engage with these occult practices.

During the segment, psychic Paula Roberts drew a tarot card for Trump that she interpreted as a sense of loss for the former president. However, the Bible warns that seeking guidance from mediums and fortune-tellers can lead to deception and spiritual harm.

In 1 Samuel 28, King Saul sought guidance from the medium of Endor, and the consequences were severe. The Lord’s anger was kindled against him, and he was ultimately rejected as king. This story serves as a cautionary tale for those who seek guidance from occult practices.

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Roberts continued with her tarot reading with cards for President Joe Biden, which showed him receiving a sum of money far more than he was used to. When Watters asked if the money was from China, alluding to Trump accusing Biden of receiving “a billion-five” from China without evidence, Roberts playfully responded, “You’re cheeky. I didn’t say from where.” The medium also made a prediction for Watters, stating that he would have another child in 2024.

The Bible encourages believers to seek guidance from the Lord and to trust in His wisdom and guidance. Proverbs 3:5-6 states, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

The promotion of occult practices on mainstream media is a major cause for concern, as it can lead people astray and away from the truth of Jesus Christ. Christians are called to engage in spiritual warfare against such practices and to proclaim the truth of the gospel.

As America continues to be “drenched” in the occult and witchcraft, it is crucial for Christians to stand firm in their faith and to be a light in the darkness. By sharing the love of Jesus and the truth of the gospel, believers can counteract the influence of the occult and lead others to a relationship with Christ.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




IHOPKC Sees More Leadership Stepping Down

Posting a new update in the ongoing investigation of inappropriate behavior and abuse surrounding founder Mike Bickle, the International House of Prayer Kansas City has announced David Sliker, President of IHOPU, is stepping down from his position.

Sliker is also stepping down from his position on IHOPKC’s Executive Leadership Team, effective immediately.

In the announcement, IHOPKC clarifies that this was a mutual decision between the two parties and is the best decision for the community and Sliker’s family.

Replacing Sliker as President of IHOPU, effective immediately, is Matt Candler. This appointment was a unanimous decision between IHOPKC’s Board of Directors, the Executive Leadership Team and IHOPU’s leadership team.

This change of leadership continues the season of change that IHOPKC and their community going through.

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On the evening of Friday, Dec. 22, it was announced that the 24/7 prayer and worship ministry was “formally and permanently” separating from Bickle. In light of new information, Bickle was completely removed from the organization. Additionally, Executive Director Stuart Greaves resigned and stepped down from his role on the ministry’s board of directors.

The allegations against Bickle, made by multiple women over the course of several decades, have sent shockwaves through the Christian community, with many expressing concern, anger, fear and disappointment. As the founder of the International House of Prayer of Kansas City, Bickle has played a significant role in shaping the spiritual lives of countless individuals. The investigation has prompted a wider conversation about accountability and transparency within Christian leadership.

The investigation is an ongoing process, and it is important for the Christian community to remain informed and engaged in the discussion. As the investigation unfolds, the Christian community must continue to pray for all parties involved and seek guidance from the Holy Spirit in navigating this challenging time.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Earthquakes Kickoff 2024 and End Times Speculation

In the past week, several major earthquakes have struck various parts of the world, leaving a trail of destruction and devastation in their wake.

From the powerful tremors in Japan that claimed numerous lives and destroyed homes, to the quakes felt in Los Angeles, New York and India, the Earth has shown its immense power and unpredictability. As these events continue to unfold, it is crucial for Christians to reflect on their faith and discern what these events might mean in regards to the end times.

A series of powerful earthquakes struck Japan’s west coast on Jan. 1, 2024, causing widespread damage and loss of life. The largest of these was a magnitude 7.6 earthquake that hit near the city of Tokyo, killing at least 48 people and injuring hundreds more. The earthquake also triggered a tsunami warning and caused widespread power outages.

A magnitude 4.1 earthquake off the Los Angeles County coast caused weak shaking throughout Southern California on Monday, with residents in Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura counties reporting the tremors to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Did You Feel It? website.

Despite being felt by several people during the Rose Parade in Pasadena, no injuries or damage were reported, and the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale classified the shaking as noticeable indoors and causing slight rocking of standing motor vehicles.

A 1.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Astoria, Queens, on Tuesday morning, causing a series of small explosions that knocked out power and jolted residents awake in Roosevelt Island, Queens, and the Upper East Side.

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The United States Geological Survey reported the earthquake at 5:45 a.m., which coincided with the time calls began to come in from the affected areas. Despite the loud noise and shaking felt by residents, no injuries or damage were reported in New York City.

Two earthquakes of magnitude 3.9 on the Richter scale have struck Jammu and Kashmir, a disputed region between Pakistan, India and China, with the latest on Jan. 4, as reported by the National Center for Seismology (NSC). The first earthquake occurred on Jan. 2, and the second on Dec. 30 in Kupwara, with both events having a depth of five kilometers below the surface. Despite the tremors, there have been no reports of damage, according to the National Centre of Seismology.

The Bible speaks of earthquakes as signs of the end times, often associated with God’s judgment or the return of Jesus Christ. In Matthew 24:7, Jesus says, “For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines, epidemics and earthquakes in various places.”

In light of the increase in this type of activity, Christians should be discerning about what is taking place on the Earth during the end times. While earthquakes and other natural disasters can be seen as signs of the end times, they can also be seen as natural events that occur as a result of the Earth’s geological processes.

Christians are called to remain steadfast in their faith and mission, even as we witness the events of the end times unfolding around us. While it is important to be aware of the signs and prophecies, believers must not lose sight of the Great Commission, which is to make disciples of all nations (Matt. 28:19-20). Jesus Himself instructed His followers to focus on spreading the gospel and preparing for His return, rather than getting caught up in speculation and fear. In this way, we can continue to live out our faith with purpose and hope, even in the midst of uncertain times.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




US-Israel Relations Suffering Under Unbiblical Leadership

Recent events have sparked concern among Christians who support Israel, as the United States’ long-standing alliance with the Jewish state appears to be under threat.

As the Biden administration continues attacks against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, other elected officials are calling for the defunding of America’s support in the war against terrorism.

Senator Bernie Sanders, a prominent progressive voice and of Jewish ancestry, has recently called for an end to American funding of Israel. Instead, he is advocating for a two-state solution and an end to Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

“I do not think we should be appropriating $10.1 billion for the right-wing, extremist Netanyahu government to continue its current military strategy,” Sanders wrote in a Dec. 5 letter. “What the Netanyahu government is doing is immoral, it is in violation of international law and the United States should not be complicit in those actions.”

Instead of calling for the hostages still held by the terrorist organization Hamas to be released, Sanders has tentatively called for a “humanitarian pause.”

In addition to sitting members of congress actively supporting Hamas and holding Israel to a different standard than any other country who has faced a massacre like what occurred on Oct. 7, celebrities have made their stance well-known on the matter as well.

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NBA player Kyrie Irving has made no effort to dissuade accusations of being an anti-Semite who promotes the radical Black Hebrew conspiracy theory.

Irving has continued to antagonize the Jewish community by promoting an anti-Semitic film on social media, as well as wearing a keffiyeh (seen as a sign of Palestinian terrorists and anti-Israel sentiment).

Most recently Irving complained during an NBA game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Utah Jazz that saw four Jewish rabbis holding up signs saying they are proud to be Jewish.

Perhaps tormented at the thought of being called out for his ignorance-fueled swipes at the Jewish people, Irving went on to have security tell the rabbis they must remove their signs.

“That Kyrie Irving is a coward with the spine of a goldfish is not news to me,” Rabbi Avremi Zippel, who attended the game, wrote in a social media post. “That the Mavericks organization covers for him, is sadly, not new to me.”

On a much larger scale of anti-Israel sentiment, America has witnessed college campuses become hotbeds of antisemitism, thanks in part to the Marxist ideologies preached to students for decades.

It was the weak responses to these hate-filled demonstrations that saw the shortest tenured president of Harvard University, Claudine Gay, resign in disgrace on Jan. 2, 2024, as well as mounting accusations of plagiarism.

When confronted during a congressional hearing regarding the protests on campus, Gay, along with two other major university presidents, were incapable of condemning the antisemitism on their campuses calling for the genocide of Israel.

These events, and more, are setting the table for a time when America and Israel are no longer the close allies they once were.

Turning against Israel is an unbiblical action, just as replacement theory is, because the Bible teaches that God has a special relationship with the Jewish people and the land of Israel. In Genesis 12:3, God tells Abraham, “I will bless those who bless you, and curse him who curses you.”

When discussing and reading about the End Times, biblical prophecy says that the world will turn against Israel before the return of Jesus. In Zechariah 14:2, it is written, “For I will gather all the nations against Jerusalem for battle.” This prophecy foretells that Israel will face increasing hostility from the international community as the end times approach.

As tensions around the world continue to mount with wars and rumors of wars, one place that believers can find solace and guidance is in the Word of God. By viewing these events through the biblical lens, we will not only be able to discern the times that we live in, but use godly wisdom to help us navigate them as the forces of evil continue their march toward their eventual demise.

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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.




Atheist Group Calls For Voter Turnout to Combat ‘Christian Extremism’

American atheists are urging non-believers to vote against Christians in the coming election cycle, claiming that their survival is at stake.

Atheist Revolution, a prominent atheist organization, asserts that non-Christians should have the highest voter turnout as they have the most to lose when so-called “Christian extremists” gain power.

The organization argues that extremists who call themselves Christians, such as Nick Fuentes, want the death penalty for non-Christians, and that this is not a secret. They emphasize that ignoring the threat could be dangerous and that non-believers should keep this in mind.

“This isn’t a secret. We ignore the threat at our own peril,” the Atheist Revolution website says. “We should keep it in mind when we aren’t excited about any of our local, state and federal candidates.”

“If we need a reason to go to the polls, this could be it,” the site adds.

Atheists are encouraged to vote to prevent the world envisioned by Christian extremists and to ensure their survival. The organization stresses that this is not about upholding abstract principles but about self-preservation.

The call to action by Atheist Revolution highlights the perceived threat of Christian extremism to non-believers in America. However, it is essential to note that the large majority of those who say they are Christian do not hold extremist views, and instead promote peace, love and salvation in Jesus Christ.

This call to action by an atheist group demonstrates the growing divide between religious and non-religious communities.

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The Bible teaches that Christians are called to live peacefully and respectfully with others, even in the face of persecution:

  • 1 Peter 3:15-16: “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts. Always be ready to give an answer to every man who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you, with gentleness and fear. Have a good conscience so that evildoers who speak evil of you and falsely accuse your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.”
  • Romans 12:18: ” If it is possible, as much as it depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”
  • Matthew 5:43-44: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor[a] and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.”

These verses emphasize the importance of responding to persecution with love, gentleness and respect. Christians should strive to live in peace with others and be prepared to give a reason for their faith with gentleness and kindness.

While the call to action by Atheist Revolution highlights the continued attack on and misrepresentation of Christianity in America, it is important for Christians to respond in a way that aligns with biblical teachings.

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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.




U.S. District Judge Orders Kim Davis to Pay $260,000 in Legal Fees

A U.S. District Judge has ordered former Kentucky county clerk Kim Davis to pay more than $260,000 in attorney fees and expenses in a case involving her refusal to issue marriage licenses to a same-sex couple. Davis was briefly jailed in 2015 for her stance, and she was later brought to court. She was also ordered to pay $100,000 in damages to the two men she refused to work with.

The case dates back to 2015, when Davis refused to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, citing her religious beliefs and her belief that she was acting “under God’s authority.” Davis’ stand against same-sex marriage was met with controversy, but it also garnered support from many in the Christian community who saw her as standing up for her religious convictions.

Davis was released from jail after a judge ordered deputies to issue the licenses without her approval. She ran for re-election to the county clerk office in 2018 but lost to the Democrat candidate. Davis argued that she would be able to certify same-sex marriages due to a change in Kentucky law dropping the requirement for licenses to contain the clerk’s signature.

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In the aftermath of her defeat, the Christian community rallied around Davis, recognizing her as a symbol of religious freedom and the struggle against a society that they believe is increasingly hostile to their beliefs.

The case of Kim Davis is one of religious freedom and the right to follow one’s conscience. The Bible teaches that Christians are to obey the laws of man, but to prioritize the ways of God first. Romans 13:1 says, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist are appointed by God.” However, when there is a conflict between the laws of man and the laws of God, Christians are called to follow God’s ways. Acts 5:29 states, “Peter and the other apostles answered, ‘We must obey God rather than men.'”

Many Christians see her actions as an example of following God’s ways first, even when it meant facing consequences from the government. While the legal battle will surely march on with her expected appeal, the debate over religious freedom and the role of conscience in public life also continues.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Visionary Founder of AFA, Rev. Dr. Donald Wildmon, Dies at 85

Reverend Dr. Donald Ellis Wildmon, the influential founder of the American Family Association, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023, in Tupelo, Mississippi. He was 85. Wildmon battled Lewy Body Dementia courageously until the end, leaving behind a legacy of pro-family advocacy and Christian leadership.

Wildmon’s journey into activism began in 1977 when he, a pastor and father of four, took a stand against unbiblical content on television. His call to his family and congregation in Southaven, Mississippi, to turn off their television sets for a week gained local attention and soon captured the nation’s focus.

The American Family Association, birthed from Wildmon’s vision, became a powerful force addressing issues such as life, marriage, family and religious freedom. Under Wildmon’s guidance, AFA successfully spearheaded campaigns that influenced major corporate sponsors to distance themselves from explicit programming, prompting changes in their advertising policies.

The impact of Wildmon’s efforts extended beyond campaigns, as AFA became a prominent pro-family resource, including the establishment of the American Family Radio network in 1991, growing rapidly to encompass 200 stations. Today, AFA continues its mission under the leadership of President Tim Wildmon, the son of the late founder.

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AFA President Tim Wildmon reflected on his father’s legacy, stating, “My father was a man with great conviction and vision. He knew how important it was for Christians to remain firmly entrenched in their faith in the face of an openly immoral society, and he lived his life for the gospel every single day.”

Governor Tate Reeves of Mississippi acknowledged Wildmon’s impact, praising his “impressive legacy of Christian ministry,” predicting it would endure for years to come.

Tony Perkins, President of the Family Research Council, paid tribute to Wildmon in a post on X, noting his remarkable impact on cultural forces. Perkins stated, “Don was a remarkable man who I had the privilege of working very closely with during my first decade at FRC. Don had the true heart of a servant.”

Wildmon is survived by his wife, Lynda, four children, six grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, one sister, one sister-in-law and one brother-in-law. His commitment to Christian values and pro-family advocacy leaves an indelible mark on American society, and his memory will be cherished by those who knew him.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Pastor Accused of Trying to Push McDonald’s Cook Into Deep Fryer

In a bizarre incident that has left the Christian community in High Point, North Carolina, in disbelief, a local pastor, Dwayne Wayden, allegedly attempted to push a McDonald’s cook, Theodore Garlington, into a deep fryer. The incident occurred Dec. 28, when Wayden’s wife, Latoya Gladney, a trainee manager at the fast-food restaurant, called him to complain about her employees’ behavior.

Pastor Wayden, who is affiliated with Elevated Life International Ministries and also works as a truck driver, arrived at the restaurant and reportedly began punching Garlington in the face before attempting to push his head into the hot oil. Thankfully, several employees managed to intervene and prevent further harm.

The victim suffered a large contusion on his forehead and right eye, along with scratches on his neck. An ambulance was called, but Garlington chose to have his relatives take him to the hospital.

After reviewing the security footage, the High Point Police Department arrested Wayden for assault and battery. He was later released on a $1,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court Jan. 22.

The incident has raised alarms about the expectations and standards for those in ministry. The Bible teaches that those in leadership positions are held to a higher standard. In James 3:1, it is written, “My brothers, not many of you should become teachers, knowing that we shall receive the greater judgment.”

In this passage, James, the brother of Jesus and the leader of the early Christian community in Jerusalem, offers a word of caution to those who aspire to be teachers or leaders within the church. He warns that those who teach will be held to a higher standard due to their influence and responsibility.

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This verse emphasizes the importance of humility and careful consideration before taking on such a role. It serves as a reminder that teaching is not a position to be taken lightly, but rather one that requires a deep understanding of the subject matter and a commitment to guiding others in their spiritual journey.

As the pastor of Elevated Life International Ministries, Wayden has shared messages about embracing new opportunities and leaving behind old ways of thinking. However, this shocking event has left many wondering how his actions align with the teachings of the church and the expectations of those in ministry.

The local McDonald’s franchise confirmed that Gladney is no longer with the organization, emphasizing that the safety and security of their employees and customers is their top priority.

In a world that’s constantly facing new challenges, the Christian church must remain steadfast in its mission to spread the message of love and hope. The importance of disciplined and biblically rooted leadership has never been more crucial. As the Bible teaches in 1 Timothy 3:1-13, leaders must be above reproach, temperate, self-controlled, respectable and able to teach. A strong and disciplined leadership will not only help the church navigate the complexities of modern society, but also provide a solid foundation for its members to grow in their faith.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.