MorningStar Ministries founder Rick Joyner is addressing a growing conflict within his organization, focusing on the fallout with former leader Chris Reed. In a recent edition of “Rick’s Rants,” Joyner speaks openly about the deteriorating situation, admitting his own lack of discernment and acknowledging the serious issues facing the ministry.
Joyner recalls his initial trust in Reed, describing him as someone he thought would play a significant leadership role within MorningStar. However, over time, problems began to surface.
“I was shocked beyond anything by what happened to Chris Reed. I never saw that coming,” Joyner says. He expresses regret for not recognizing early warning signs, acknowledging that “others saw parts of it and were worried about it.”
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Joyner is candid about his own personal failures, admitting that he missed critical red flags in Reed’s leadership. “I have a real blind spot in some ways that I need others to cover for me,” he says, noting his need for greater discernment and the importance of leaning on the spiritual gifts of others. “I can’t cover everything. I think the Lord has distributed His gifts in His church to make us depend on each other and actually love each other.”
The issue with Reed is part of a broader set of challenges plaguing MorningStar, including continued “legal battles regarding the alleged sexual abuse cases of minors by a former volunteer at the church” as Charisma News has previously reported.
Joyner speaks of “wolves in sheep’s clothing” within the organization, explaining how some leaders have sown division and caused harm. “They think they’re special messengers of God, but it’s not the God I serve,” he says. He is adamant that individuals who fail to meet biblical standards will not be granted positions of authority. “They’re demanding positions of leadership in the church—that ain’t gonna happen now with me still alive.”
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Despite the turmoil, Joyner remains committed to the future of MorningStar and the broader Christian community. He believes that this season of trial will lead to a renewal. “MorningStar has been through shakings, some really big ones like this,” he says. “It always preceded a great move of God among us.”
He calls for spiritual watchmen—Christians with strong gifts of discernment—to step up in this critical hour. “We need watchmen on the walls. We are in desperate need of spiritual watchmen who will discern these people for what they are,” Joyner urges. He believes that the challenges facing MorningStar, and the church at large, can only be overcome with the help of those with “extraordinary gifts of discernment.”
As the situation continues to unfold, Joyner pleads for unity within the body of Christ. He encourages believers to “stay the course” and trust in God’s ultimate victory, despite the ongoing battles.
In this time of crisis, Christians across the country are encouraged to lift up the hurting church in prayer. Pray for the restoration of unity, healing for abuse victims, discernment in leadership and for the church to follow biblical mandates set before them.
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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.
Abby Trivett