Bethel Church issued a response regarding allegations against Pastor Ben Armstrong.
In a statement posted on their website, the church said that Armstrong has been placed on leave.
Late on February 13, 2026, we became aware of a video containing serious allegations of clergy sexual abuse pertaining to Ben Armstrong and events that took place in 2009.
Earlier that day at 1:30pm PT, we released a statement on our website based on the information that we were aware of at that time, and our understanding of Ben’s lived repentance since that time. However, in light of these new and previously unknown allegations, we have placed Ben Armstrong on administrative leave. He will not be ministering while an independent third-party investigation takes place.
They further said that this is “not a verdict,” but a “necessary measure” for the church to move forward.
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This step forward is not a verdict, but a necessary measure intended to reflect the care and sobriety with which we approach matters of this nature and our desire to operate in transparency and truth. We are also currently reaching out to those who have brought these allegations to light.
We are actively engaging outside counsel and independent experts to help ensure thorough, impartial, and trauma-informed processes. We are committed to health and accountability as we pursue spiritual, physical, and emotional safety across our organization.
Before Armstrong’s leave was announced, the church noted that this involved a situation he had previously repented of on the public platform.
In early February 2026, we were made aware of an accusation from 2008-2009 involving Ben Armstrong and a former BSSM student. This incident would’ve taken place prior to a known moral failure in 2009, for which Ben publicly repented, was removed from ministry, and walked through a multi-year healing and restoration process. This process bore the fruit of repentance, which is still evident today.
Currently, Ben and Heather’s connection and family is very strong, as is their connection and trust with us. We deeply value their ministry with us. We have no reports or accusations of Ben being inappropriate with anyone else since the moral failure 16 years ago. Regardless, we take all allegations and concerns reported to us seriously.
To read the full statement by Bethel, click here.
Prepared by Charisma Media Staff.
