In this message Dr. Mikael Stenhammar challenges you to reorient your life with a future-looking perspective, guided by the biblical story. Starting with a call to seek God's kingdom first, the sermon delves into how our affections shape our character and actions. There is a battle for our hearts, but the promise of resurrection and a new heaven and new earth empowers us to live lives of self-giving service and enduring suffering. Through examples like Paul, Moses, and the early church, we are reminded that the true treasures are still future in God's new world, not the fleeting pleasures of this world. By embracing a faith that looks forward, we remain open to divine surprises and the work of the Holy Spirit, who is a foretaste of the future kingdom. Thank you Capstone Church for inviting me to speak. https://capstone.church/ For more content visit Mikael's website www.liberating.faith
In this podcast we dive into the biblical understanding of spiritual authority and the dynamics of apostolic power. While discussions around spiritual fathers and submission are prevalent, we often overlook the true essence of how power and authority function within the Kingdom of God. In our exploration, we’ll see Jesus as the ultimate model, but we’ll also spotlight figures like Barnabas—an embodiment of self-giving love and risk-taking. Together, we’ll examine the apostolic mission through the lens of Acts, highlighting how Barnabas supported Saul’s transformation into Paul, and how this reflects God's intended stewardship of power. Join us as we unpack these themes and discover what it truly means to empower others within the body of Christ, fostering flourishing in both spiritual and relational dimensions. Let’s embark on this journey to start reimagining authority in a Kingdom context. Please subscribe to my channel. For FREE teaching articles and ways to contact me, visit www.liberating.faith Links to books quotes: https://www.amazon.com/Celebrities-Jesus-Personas-Platforms-Profits/dp/1587435187/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1GNY99KDUTPMR&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._pZid19DQ79RiDlAT2Qr35EyVKWNa044anapFCJTv1qUWRX7WSAaWir-xUiCFKwEMy3t19TfEYs_5bREtUdrwAdqpPVM0LhR9GpkleIDheLSyEoezirVnqtpC41cID0PiE78EJPMNwVkLScgr6i-WdLyLngmeFMne5Ke5MaPsENcrKAeQ3rdFalBrx7XzOZC_VUG0uZsglQe9xSLQ3jOOEHUc9qnZfK8LUMq_glmq_A.dCsVCNtYiJTfIhi-aCBKzaDUEKXhxViLfrnvHBl0Lnk&dib_tag=se&keywords=celebrities+for+jesus&qid=1728158633&sprefix=celebrity+for+jesus%2Caps%2C105&sr=8-1 https://www.amazon.com/Pentecostal-Theology-Christian-Spiritual-Tradition/dp/1610970845/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1XEIPE7N8YD9J&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.MBk6JBimfEdzEk8WqO8LAbSsB6weO8bOVxflHqfEpSOwS6DTStVLPB55YVlsO_3Lviksbs258Ex_T0FzpK6eZQ.o5geyS0fDJ-ali2yO4bXJibjc8z-K49Qh4jzASWruZk&dib_tag=se&keywords=simon+chan+pentecostal+theology&qid=1728158653&sprefix=simon+chan+pentecostal+theology%2Caps%2C96&sr=8-1
The belief that you have to be under a spiritual father to have God's best for your life and to reach your divine destiny is widespread in Charismatic churches especially those influenced by the Word of Faith prosperity gospel worldview. In this video I speak to: What this doctrine says What its biblical foundations are What some of the benefits are What some of the main problems are How Paul exemplifies what a true spiritual father is Visit my website for FREE teaching articles: www.liberating.faith You can reach me by using the comments section here or use the contact form on my website. If you found my content helpful, please don't forget to subscribe to this channel. You can order my book here: https://www.amazon.com/Worldview-Word-Faith-Movement-Pentecostal-ebook/dp/B09GV1VYS8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2A65YP0H0T21U&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.B30xqSUo7TQ3OIOEWz1oM-aRiL-m5LNfu39nPiJ01NDhZx46fV3B78goiqRaZRi-OXl9RgBHUberRMTDvIJEJGWp2p6RkWwwnmhvHcROBQLDiGgJFLw4j-SeIF8_8WaL4HSsERThrWQ27ILj8Ydivvsv2gWWOsggMAWIQnFh_3Ivawanqu6PUlEGL8iCZ3aKqAVfKdW_56aFS_oRRd--xA.IFZGgw1bLpNtGf8iPUtXpGJN3G6lYqcPUwAgG3vcAvQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=stenhammar&qid=1725552686&s=books&sprefix=stenhammar+%2Cstripbooks%2C141&sr=1-1
In this podcast Dr. Mikael Stenhammar examines the teaching of "the blessing of Abraham" in Galatians 3:14, how it is interpreted within the Word of Faith prosperity gospel and contrasting that to its biblical meaning. Get ready to be surprised and encouraged! Connect with Mikael using the comments here or via the Liberating Faith website: www.liberating.faith Order Mikael's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Worldview-Word-Faith-Movement-Pentecostal/dp/0567703444/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.NsFgCUC-DFVL0I8ZqSZtlh3HPOaW5udqyvdA-CFxUODGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.EwYzNbROCB2Dx-CN3eZk02agU0WkTEVzhQmh8iDSNQ0&dib_tag=se&keywords=mikael+stenhammar&qid=1724636488&sr=8-1
In this podcast video, Dr. Mikael Stenhammar addresses the question if the money given to prosperity gospel Word of Faith ministries is wasted. A common concern among people who have spotted theological issues with the movement is if the resources and energies they invested have been in vain. Connect with Mikael: • www.liberating.faith • https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100079496899234 Listen to Mikael’s journey in the Word of Faith movement: • https://youtu.be/Dk3UsKff7Jw Order Mikael’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Worldview-Word-Faith-Movement-Pentecostal-ebook/dp/B09GV1VYS8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1P8YHQXE5BJ6S&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.EHdqcLYga8LWuXtgP19QUMLlfZGwVRgU3LPuWfAewq0.ObOP3G6Y8_7pnZO8P5CRVrJFz0fVikNEJ27Jvk62HeU&dib_tag=se&keywords=mikael+stenhammar&qid=1719854943&s=digital-text&sprefix=mikael+stenhammar%2Cdigital-text%2C158&sr=1-1
Are you struggling with the decision to stay or leave a prosperity gospel church? In this video, Dr. Mikael Stenhammar addresses this complex issue, offering insights and guidance for those caught in this dilemma. Key Topics Discussed: • Understanding Hard and Soft Prosperity Gospel • The Trajectory of Your Church • Healing Your Church • Personal Motivations • Family Considerations Why Watch This Video? This video is designed to provide clarity and support for those feeling conflicted about their involvement in a prosperity gospel church. Dr. Mikael Stenhammar offers a balanced perspective, helping viewers navigate their spiritual journey with wisdom and led by the Holy Spirit. Connect with Liberating Faith: • www.liberating.faith
How do you know if your church preaches prosperity theology? In this podcast, we delve into the key signs and characteristics of prosperity gospel churches, which can range from small mud churches in Africa to the largest congregations in the US. Identifying a prosperity gospel church can be tricky as there is no specific denomination or clear statement of faith. Many churches claim to be non-denominational, Charismatic, or Pentecostal, making the influence of prosperity theology widespread. Some preachers deny their association with prosperity gospel due to its controversial reputation, while others may be unaware they are preaching it. Prosperity gospel exists in various degrees, from "hard" versions that focus on spiritual laws and causality to "soft" versions that emphasize wellness and success. In this video Dr. Mikael Stenhammar examens key symbols, actions and beliefs that show if a church belongs in the prosperity gospel worldview. For contact information, FREE teaching articles and more, visit our website: www.liberating.faith Dr. Mikael Stenhammar's book: https://www.amazon.com/Worldview-Word-Faith-Movement-Pentecostal/dp/0567703487/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1P45KRI2BJXRE&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.uwezPNyhal6o-9GMYyKFKcKGgSesu3FJYm5mu6z2Sjw8vJosyUI1CAt2dqoElB1yE4ATrShgZtqaTOFzLqRyrqq_P6nC4A29nTEf4d5LIr55D4Pt6RvTfGNdqjjXybJ0uknGIeolj-WrfW8miA-ZVqSJYNsh_m1Wou-9soghHQqxhhXCWy72wrgM3MW9smPnETPNVsBYlBX-VKJ3jgVdzB4U9qG0XGQaJwQz6ZdAAQQ.ZDLzCeLxcyhYmFOJ3pW1nVCiGc6ncC3TfVyI5jH7rko&dib_tag=se&keywords=mikael+stenhammar&qid=1715960748&sprefix=mikael+stenhammar%2Caps%2C117&sr=8-1
Is Prosperity Theology a threat to the core of Christianity? It isn't a simple answer but this theology raises concerns by altering fundamental aspects of the faith. In this video Dr. Mikael Stenhammar shows areas where Word of Faith shifts focus from Jesus and portrays God in a limited, predictable way. This can result in the church losing its distinctive voice and compromising its message. Additionally, the emphasis on comfort and success might leave believers unprepared for life's challenges, potentially leading to disillusionment during tough times. However, Word of Faith also brings valuable attention to aspects like the materiality of salvation and the significance of faith that are important not to forget. Join us as Dr. Mikael Stenhammar delves into the implications of Prosperity Theology and its impact on Christianity's essence.
Visit Liberating Faith's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@liberatingfaith/videos For FREE teaching articles and contact information, visit: www.liberating.faith To order Dr. Mikael Stenhammar's book: https://www.amazon.com/Worldview-Word-Faith-Movement-Pentecostal/dp/0567703444/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1JSLEUL9IYT7G&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.TcXMc-yBXriOta2Oyqds9G2pkl_JQUunSFQdIxCjd9TGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.HqjtTyAa-geNFNV7smUlw1MfSY2qT2GvjjNiOg_815o&dib_tag=se&keywords=dr+mikael+stenhammar+worldview&qid=1716841705&s=books&sprefix=dr+mikael+stenhammar+worldview%2Cstripbooks%2C122&sr=1-1
Is balance the way forward? Many Charismatics and Pentecostals suggest that Prosperity Theology is just unbalanced. Even leaders within the movement have called for balance. But is it the real answer? Here’s why I don’t think so: 1. Reductionistic: Prosperity is part of a larger worldview, and trying to balance it misses the big picture. 2. Rationalizes: It masks consumerism and shields believers from Jesus' radical teachings, ignoring biblical warnings. 3. Radical Tensions: We are called to live in tension, holding paradoxical truths together. Instead of balancing on a scale, think of life like setting up a tent, supported by opposite truths. Explore this concept with me as we seek a better way forward.
In this podcast, Dr. Mikael Stenhammar explores the role of Satan in Prosperity Theology. This theology often portrays Satan as a significant and active force, responsible for sickness, financial lack, failure, fear, and unbelief. The WoF perspective emphasizes defining the root cause of evil and suffering, attributing much of it to Satan’s influence.
The prosperity theology shapes a worldview where believers must constantly battle Satan, using their faith and authority to overcome his influence. While this may feel empowering at first, it also introduces a theology driven by anxiety and fear.
However, Word of Faith exaggerates Satan's power and places him as a near-equal opposite to God, inadvertently promoting his role while downplaying God’s power and freedom. The Bible, though acknowledging Satan's presence, does not support the idea that he has absolute sovereignty over the earth. Instead, scriptures affirm God’s ultimate control and authority.
Join Mikael as he delves into the implications and biblical basis of these beliefs and their place in Prosperity Theology.
For more videos, visit Liberating Faith’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@liberatingfaith/videos
Visit Liberating Faith’s website for FREE teaching articles and contact information: www.liberating.faith
Get Dr. Mikael Stenhammar’s book on the Word of Faith movement’s worldview: https://www.amazon.com/Worldview-Word-Faith-Movement-Pentecostal/dp/0567703444/ref=sr_1_1?crid=S1DC46F8XWX0&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.uwezPNyhal6o-9GMYyKFKcKGgSesu3FJYm5mu6z2Sjw8vJosyUI1CAt2dqoElB1yjvZgXB0sXvCj11X3TR38eIC4MMV8BOb6NHL-57s-l1SbGI-bk3wK4sTmpEDPzX8LKfRrm4zdX-qXkd0GaZfBg42P6IyCz4OlTRCgncgu-2lMywsjnvHIk4k6QDR2IFl0XoR6uUqvpAmPViX6Z_Lri3yHYDZO9AZUOWjesq0R9AA.SjrSqNqO-ifRe9Vv2N62s561p0TH1-bLcc9f0Js6lRg&dib_tag=se&keywords=mikael+stenhammar&qid=1716819994&sprefix=mikael+stenhammar%2Caps%2C124&sr=8-1
In this podcast video, I, Dr. Mikael Stenhammar, delve into the controversial "Little gods" doctrine often associated with Prosperity Theology and Word of Faith teachings. Despite some rhetorical shifts, this belief remains a central tenet, posing significant theological questions and challenges. Are humans more than mere mortals? Do we possess a divine nature akin to God's? I point out four key problems with this teaching while noting that, despite some significant problems, it still might have something valuable to offer.
Vist my YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/@liberatingfaith/videos
For FREE teaching articles and more, visit my website:
www.liberating.faith
Healing in the atonement is a key belief in the prosperity Word of Faith theology but is it rightly interpreted? In this video podcast I explore the theological connections between healing and the atoning death of Jesus in the context of prosperity theology. I look at foundational biblical passages, including Psalm 103:2–3, Isaiah 53:3–5, Matthew 8:14–17, and 1 Peter 2:23–24, to uncover insights into the nature of healing, God's mercy, the role of healings as acts of God and the significance of the Holy Spirit in Jesus' ministry. I present four truths that set us on the right path in thinking more biblically and deeply on healing: 1. Healings are acts of God 2. Healings are connected with the mercy of God 3. Jesus’ healings are tied to the work of the Holy Spirit 4. Healings are foretastes of God’s future kingdom By learning these we can distinguish between biblical truth and an overemphasis on the future reality of God’s kingdom, what is called over-realized eschatology. Join us as we explore these vital theological concepts and their implications for Christian faith and practice. Quote from Dr. Steven Studebaker: ”Is healing really in the atonement? Yes and no. First, healing is not a benefit that Christ bought with his suffering and death on the cross. So, in the sense of the penal and legal transference whereby Christ pays the price of human sin and infirmity, healing is not in the atonement. But healing is part of the redemptive work of the Spirit of Pentecost. Healing and resurrection are the telos of the Spirit that stirred over the primal waters of creation, that breathed life into the womb of Mary and brought about the Incarnation of the Son of God, that anointed and empowered his ministry, and that raised the crucified Christ from the dead. Healing is the proleptic participation in the final consummation of the promise of resurrected life in the new creation, the new heaven, and the new earth. So “yes,” healing is in the atonement. But it is an atonement theology that arises from the biblical narrative of the Spirit of Pentecost. Leaving behind the legal-penal logic of atonement opens up space for an alternative theology of the cross. A theology of the cross that is pneumatological, participatory, and organic. Healing can be part of the experience of atonement and the new life brought by the Spirit of Pentecost, but Christ’s suffering and death are participatory and organic rather than forensic transference of disease and suffering that exempts Christians from the same” Steven Studebaker, “The Spirit of Atonement”, p. 154 https://www.amazon.com/Spirit-Atonement-Pentecostal-Contributions-Charismatic/dp/0567699250/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PMYQ4CACC1SZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.EM08eocf7uOgfzbWP8_4t7d7-SJgkfAW6oZCe_tzc2FHZ76cvjmj37SSOvDcAIQZNpBoMmdJ3Hp05prie5e9hYUvQS8Z51enTNisePbZYDEg6_T_2Ama7VbFGzn35qoRX_0ypWg9KNPp1nWyhSofyxnKlTB8FGN4Mgi9NprN5N0m2jk1eOytFdYNzsxmOH953aIapEZa97dNdVt1TMgMPyci_B1rBGatI6f4IIVgW8o.4XczsSLEGIUU70QzDoRb0hInBc7Z6lLs3WnnxtDIKtU&dib_tag=se&keywords=spirit+of+atonement&qid=1715612837&s=books&sprefix=spirit+of+atonemen%2Cstripbooks%2C160&sr=1-1 Helpful materials to study: Dr. Keith Warrington, “Path to Wholeness” – a great summary of key points on healing https://biblicalstudies.org.uk/pdf/evangel/21-2_045.pdf Dr. Keith Warrington, “Healing and Kenneth Hagin” https://www.academia.edu/64387060/Keith_Warrington_Healing_and_Kenneth_Hagin_pp_119_138_ Dr. Kimberly Alexander, Podcast lecture on the history of healing in Christianity https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nR2FsqEQGA0 Dr. Mikael Stenhammar's book, "The Worldview of the Word of Faith Movement"
The intricate relationship between Word of Faith prosperity theology and the biblical portrayal of suffering is the focus of this episode of the Liberating Faith podcast. Dr. Mikael Stenhammar examines Paul’s 'thorn in the flesh' (2 Cor. 12:7–11) and uncovers seven profound insights that offer a more biblical perspective and help us navigate faith, suffering and God's will.
Links to resources recommended in the podcast:
Trophimus I Left Sick: Our Problems of Divine Healing, Donald Gee
http://www.dealpentecostal.co.uk/Trophimus%20I%20Left%20Sick%20-%20Gee,%20D.pdf
The Devil, Disease, and Deliverance: Origins of Illness in New Testament Thought, John Christopher Thomas
For contact information and FREE teaching articles visit our website:
In this episode of the Liberating Faith podcast, I, Dr. Mikael Stenhammar, share about one trap Charismatic-Pentecostal Christians easily fall into: seeking power without relationship. This trap, which I term 'instrumentalism,' occurs when believers use the name of Jesus, the blood of Jesus, giving, love, oil, worship, holy communion, and other entities in a way that is, at least to some degree, separate from the person of God. This is a serious mistake and something Scripture warns us not to do.
For more see Liberating Faith YouTube channel
https://www.youtube.com/@liberatingfaith/videos
For more articles and how to contact Dr. Mikael visit the website:
We dive into the controversial phenomenon of animal sounds in Charismatic worship services in this episode of the Liberating Faith podcast. Dr. Mikael Stenhammar explore the biblical perspective, shares personal experiences, historical anecdotes, shedding light on the presence of animal noises in worship services, including reports from the Toronto Vineyard revival while considering the potential prophetic significance of sounds. We ponder the theological implications, both positive and negative, of such manifestations, contemplating God's interaction with humanity and the workings of the Holy Spirit. Join us on this journey towards a life founded on Scripture and open to the Holy Spirit.
For more see Liberating Faith YouTube channel
https://www.youtube.com/@liberatingfaith/videos
Listen to “4 Truths to Open Your Worldview to the Holy Spirit”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIneQp7xgcg&t=14s
For study articles and how to contact Dr. Mikael visit the website:
In this podcast episode, we delve into five biblical principles of using wealth righteously, drawing wisdom from the Old Testament and applying them to the Word of Faith prosperity gospel.
Our discussion unfolds through five key points:
1. Using wealth with justice
2. Making wealth available to the wider community
3. Seeing wealth as an opportunity for generosity
4. Using wealth in the service of God
5. Setting an example of integrity
You can download Dr. Chris Wright’s article “The Righteous Rich in the Old Testament” here:
https://theotherjournal.com/2010/08/the-righteous-rich-in-the-old-testament/
For more content and contact information to Mikael:
Subscribe to the Liberating Faith YouTube channel:
In this episode Dr. Mikael Stenhammar delves into the intriguing question: Can one be righteous and rich? This inquiry stirs various theological perspectives, from the Word of Faith Prosperity Gospel's assertion that riches indicate righteousness and faith, to the poverty gospel's contrasting view that riches denote wickedness and greed. However, here Mikael, drawing on the work of Chris Wright, introduces a nuanced perspective known as provision theology, suggesting that the righteousness of wealth depends on certain factors, four of which are discussed here:
You can download Chris Wright’s article “The Righteous Rich in the Old Testament” here:
https://theotherjournal.com/2010/08/the-righteous-rich-in-the-old-testament/
For more content and contact information to Mikael:
Visit the Liberating Faith YouTube page:
Join me in this podcast episode where I show how the message of prosperity is confused at its core. I speak of three main concerns: 1. Prosperity preaching confuses means with ends 2. Prosperity preaching confuses kingdom values with consumer culture values 3. Prosperity confuses material wealth with spiritual riches
My YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@liberatingfaith/videos Visit my website for FREE teaching articles and more: www.liberating.faith
In this episode, I discuss reasons why we might limit our openness to the Holy Spirit, and I offer four biblical truths that can help us expand our worldview to embrace more of the Spirit especially if you have had bad experiences previously. These truths have been immensely beneficial to me and others who have applied them to their lives.
You can download study notes for this episode from my website: www.liberating.faith
