I won’t say this again (and I’m closing comments).

This past week some guy asked why God would allow some to suffer or die or live in poverty or squalor while others live in luxury. The on-air “Jesus” rambled on for several minutes totally lost in his own misunderstand or lack of understanding. He never once even got near the answer that the Bible never mentions that all men on earth should have equal rewards or that this life is not the final reward.

In the parable of the talents, the master gives one slave five talents, and another two, and another one, each according to his ability. The test is to see what each does with what he has been given, not to make sure that each has the same as the others.

I don’t have a problem with the intent of the program, to give counsel and advice and even comfort to callers, but the form and execution is abhorrent.

Galations 6:7 tells us “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”

“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”

I was pretty confused myself at first, until I heard them mention that this is an interactive theater. Basically no difference than the guys that dress as historical characters and answer questions in the first person.

I’ve listened to Niel and I can say only this. He very consistently directs his audience to the redemptive work of Jesus’ death on the cross, the grace and love of the Father, and that the only way to the Father is through Jesus. He consistently counters popular modern doctrine, even in the modern church, that says do whatever makes you feel good because you’re saved by grace. He positively reinforces the importance of personal purity in being able to connect to the Father.

Regardless, I think it’s important the regardless of theology, Niel is directing peoples hearts to Jesus. He is encouraging the longing in peoples hearts to connect with God. He is reminding people of their accountability to and dependence on a higher power. Far be it from me to cast judgment on Niel for this! If it is true that the Holy Spirit is involved in Niels program and is at work – would it not be blaspheming the Holy Spirit to call the work of the enemy? Wasn’t Jesus very combative with the Pharisees when they challenged Jesus while he was about his Father’s business?

So, I say we are certainly to test the spirit. Fundamentally I cannot argue with a spirit that points to Jesus’ finished work on the cross as the only way to salvation and the kingdom of the Father. Even demons will admit they believe in Jesus, but I find it hard to believe they would declare him Lord and reinforce the foundational teachings of salvation.