Pastor Josh Howerton says one of the biggest theological battles today is not coming from outside the church, but from public figures who use biblical language while redefining what Scripture teaches.
In a recent video, the pastor of Lakepointe Church responded to comments from Texas state Rep. James Talarico, who said Jesus never asked people to worship Him.
Howerton rejected the claim and pointed to the book of Revelation, where Christ receives worship and is presented as the object of worship throughout eternity.
“This is not me being mean or exaggerating. He’s an actual heretic,” Howerton said. “Like a biblically defined false teacher and heretic.”
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Howerton said Talarico’s statement ignores passages in Revelation that depict Jesus, the Lamb of God, seated on the throne as countless believers bow before Him in worship.
The pastor said many people embrace an incomplete picture of Jesus that focuses on His earthly ministry while overlooking what Scripture says about His future reign. Revelation presents Christ as King of Kings and Lord of Lords who will rule His kingdom and judge the nations.
Howerton also criticized what he sees as a growing trend of politicians using Scripture to persuade Christians while promoting ideas that conflict with biblical teaching.
“This is the first guy I’ve ever seen whose, really his whole platform is using the Bible to convince Christians to support godless things,” he said.
The exchange highlights a broader issue facing believers: biblical literacy.
Howerton urged Christians to read the entirety of Scripture rather than relying on social media clips, political messaging or popular sound bites. He said a strong understanding of the Bible helps believers recognize false teaching and remain grounded in the truth of God’s Word.
As debates over faith continue in the public square, Howerton said Christians must test every claim against Scripture and remain anchored to the full biblical picture of Jesus Christ.
James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a journalism background from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and at the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].
