Although it is counter-productive to seek confrontation, I believe it is equally  disadvantageous to always shrink from it.  The truth of the matter is that we in Word of Faith circles have some very persistent critics. Our message is frequently and sometimes deliberately misrepresented by others.  While it is true that we have our faults and excesses, it is by no means true that these flaws amount to heresy.  When someone slings the “h”—word, (heresy) at us, it is helpful to have a reasoned and authoritative response to give in reply.  Here is one you may use.

     In a paper presented at the 30th annual meeting of the Society for Pentecostal Studies, theologian Derek Vreeland convincingly argues that the Word of Faith Movement is not heretical.

     I recommend that everyone read this paper.

     The paper is entitled "Reconstructing Word of Faith Theology: A Defense, Analysis and Refinement of the Theology of the Word of Faith Movement."

     It can be also be accessed by clicking this link:

     http://www.logosword.co.uk/articles/RWOF.htm

     Derek Vreeland analyzes and defends the overall beliefs of the Word of Faith Movement, and specifically focuses on the teachings of Kenneth Hagin, and E.W. Kenyon.

     Vreeland states on page 3:

     "Word of faith teaching is not a heresy to be obliterated, but a theologically premature movement that needs significant reconstruction.  Word of faith theology is within the bounds of orthodoxy because of its historical roots in Holiness/Pentecostalism and its exaltation of the biblical authority.  These elements provide sufficient theological foundation to seek correction and not condemnation."

     Of Kenyon Vreeland writes on page 5:

     "The writings of E.W. Kenyon lack theological sophistication and, in part, reveal a departure from the most sound of hermeneutical principles.  However, the whole of his teachings falls within the bounds of historical orthodox Christianity, on the fringe perhaps, but still within orthodoxy."

     Derek Vreeland has a master of divinity (M.Div.) degree from Oral Roberts University and is currently working on a doctor of ministry (D.Min.) degree from Ashbury Theological Seminary.  He is also the pastor at Cornerstone Christian Church in Americus, Georgia.

     Please read Vreeland’s paper and share it with others in the Word of Faith camp. 

     Copyright 2006 Mel C. Montgomery All rights reserved. This article may be copied and shared with others if done so without charge, in entirety, and if attribution is given.