As in all walks of life, the Church has its own fakes, its own charlatans, and its own swamp creatures…
Among the big differences between Jesus Christ’s ministry and that of the self-proclaimed apostles of today, is that Jesus didn’t advertise himself or promote himself, or ask for money. Neither did he employ anyone else to promote him or his books or his name. The fakirs of today, in total contrast, put their names in lights and ask for as much money as they can get. They are feathering their own nests. They take advantage of widows and little old ladies, among others. They are the scum of the earth.
Jesus Christ came into the world in quietness and humility. He attracted people by the power of his words and his love, and with real miracles. Ordinary people saw that what he was doing was truly miraculous and unexplainable. His name spread “organically”, without he or his disciples spending a penny to do so, and without making themselves wealthy:
“…the Son of Man has no place to lay his head” (Matthew 8:20).
The real Holy Spirit of God has no need to put on a show.
Not only did Christ die in ignominy; in disgrace and shame and humility, but when he appeared alive after his resurrection, he appeared quietly to those closest to him-and only them. He didn’t parade himself before the Sanhedrin, or in front of Pilate, or in the streets of Jerusalem, asking for money for “this vital ministry”. His love and his genuineness changed the world.
I don’t mean to deny legitimate ministries and churches and missions their necessary keep, I’m pointing out the difference between true godliness, and the arrogance and greed of modern-day false ministers and false miracle-workers.
Fuel for Faith 