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Todd Bentley Letter To Rick Joyner on His Marriage, Ministry and Mistress. [And Fresh Fire Infighting]

Todd Bentley wrote this letter recently to Rick Joyner. This letter has  been verified as being 100% authentic.

“Dear Rick,

My meeting with the Board of Directors of Fresh Fire some time ago was an overall great meeting. I look forward to working out the transference of Fresh Fire Ministries back to me with you and Fresh Fire leadership.

In the letter written to the partners, I was confused with the language used that seemed to suggest they were advancing the ministry without me as Fresh Fire. They insinuated they were re-building the infrastructure of Fresh Fire and indicated I resigned as Senior Leader with a signed letter due to immoral failure. Fresh Fire communicated, to me, that in signing the legal documents presented at the Board meeting on Monday, Fresh Fire Canada would dissolve while transitioning the Uganda Jesus Village and remaining staff members under the name Global Harvest Ministry, and I would continue as President of Fresh Fire USA and Europe. I left with the impression that I had willfully resigned from Fresh Fire Canada in exchange for a brand new USA and current Europe ministry. After reading the letter, I realized that it was never made clear that Fresh Fire would continue as Todd Bentley with Rick Joyner involved.

I agreed with about 70-80% of the content written in the letter and conveyed to them I did not agree with 20-30%. There were incorrect statements and facts made. I have cut and pasted some of them below and will write a brief statement to clarify truth to each of them. However, in whatever statement you and I write, I would like it to be said that Todd is maintaining a relationship with those of the former FFM Canada Board and is thankful for their hard work in such a rough season. Please feel free to use, reword, and dispose of any information as you feel led.

Please be sure that when you talk to Mike and Ken, tell them that I look forward that the next letter will make it clear of our decision of Fresh Fire continuing with Todd Bentley.

Thank you for your continuous encouragement and support. I appreciate the time and effort spent toward restoring me as a person and back into ministry. I know in my heart, we will survive this chaos and see true restoration.

Letter excerpts are in italics:

As fatigue began to set in, significant personal issues in Todd and in his relationship with Shonnah were exacerbated. This, together with his increased familiarity with a female staff member created more tension in the Bentleys’ relationship.

Rick, this is most important to my heart. I do agree that the significance stress of the Revival did have a damaging effect on my marriage. However, what Fresh Fire did not mention is that Shonnah and I, for several years have been struggling and fighting for the marriage. At one point in 2005/2006, during the dark night of the soul, which was my first burn out, Shonnah and I were separated for 6 months. At that time, we were on the verge of divorce. Through several counseling situations, there had seemed to be some breakthrough in our relationship. I agree that Lakeland’s added pressure and on-going marital struggles is what led to the break down of my marriage again, not another woman. I am guilty of allowing another relationship to begin too soon, too quickly after the legal filing of separation. I want to make it clear that this new relationship is not a contributing factor to ending my marriage with Shonnah. I did not leave Shonnah for another woman.

Finally, Todd began to burn out, and things came to a head in his relationship with Shonnah. He was unwilling to put distance between himself and the female staff member and ultimately told Shonnah he wanted a separation.

Shonnah and my legal separation came weeks before there was any relationship.

[endtimes note: which if true means Todd and Shonnah must have been legally separated when Todd was telling the world his marriage was healed and blessed etc at the Lakeland Outpouring, which still makes him a blatant liar any way one looks at it]

We so appreciate all those who have stepped in to assist the FFM Board in a process of restoration for Todd, but what we have come to realize is that ultimately, the buck stops with the FFM Board of Directors. No one knows Todd better, or has more access to all the facts from both sides than we do.

I too appreciate and am grateful for those who are involved in the restoration, however to say that they have more access to all the facts from both sides, is misguided, I believe. They did not know me better than anyone else because I can count on one hand how many times FFM board members were in my home or had relationship with Shonnah and I as a couple on a regular basis. I instigated more contact with them during the restoration time concerning the ministry or for personal assistance/counsel, than they did of me. For over three months they maintained silence, totally cutting off direct communication with me and the ministry—so there were no attempts by the Board to obtain all the facts, fairly, if they had no communication with me.

The facts:

Todd has yet to enter into a clear system of accountability with the leaders he identified that would be involved in such a process. Todd has visited Rick Joyner in Fort Mills, South Carolina, and indicated early on in September that he would be moving there soon to become a part of the community there and to receive counseling from Rick Joyner, Jack Deere, Bill Johnson and others that Rick might feel to bring alongside. Todd is in regular contact with Rick Joyner and has agreed together with Rick that he will move to Fort Mills during the first few months of 2009.

Rick feel free to update the people on our contact, and what the restoration may look like, who is involved, timing. I will leave this to you.

Having spoken with Todd in recent days, he is resolute in his intentions to divorce Shonnah, and in his mind, the restoration he is seeking is one, which would not include reconciliation with his wife. Todd admits to being 100% responsible for the divorce.

I accept 100% responsibility on my part. There were many things over the years that I have done that have damaged my relationship. However, I cannot bear all the blame; it takes to two to make relationship work.

It also needs to be clarified that Shonnah has in no way initiated this divorce and has no present intention to do so at any time in the future. She is understandably hurt by Todd’s infidelity, but is not asking or pressing for a divorce. The legal separation from Shonnah was initiated completely by Todd and he has not seen her or the children since the last week in July.

Shonnah and I split up prior to the new relationship. Shonnah had already returned to Canada before Jessa and I even began any kind of inappropriate relationship.

{Endtimes note – so Todd admits it was inappropiate then! Note also the confirmation of the name of the other woman as being Jessa.]

Rick, we don’t deny a friendship that existed for 2 years but it was not inappropriate until after Shonnah left to Canada and after I filed for separation.

{Oh that’s ok then! As long as your wife is in another country!

Still – even Todd admits once again it was ‘inappropiate’, regardless.]

I know it’s a hard sell because of speculation and irresponsible choices made after the separation, it is very easy for people to assume that this is why Shonnah and I split. But those that really know me and some of my closest friends know that my marital issues have been going on for years prior to knowing Jessa and Lakeland. I cannot over emphasize that in my opinion, Jessa is not the cause of separation between Shonnah and I.

The reason I have not been able to see my children is because of the visa process.

{As discussed before, because the money and fame is in the USA. If Todd went back to Canada, it is likely he would not get back into the USA. Todd is obviously then putting money and fame before his kids.]

I have been in constant communication with my children via telephone and email weekly. I have been working with Shonnah and the lawyers on joint custody. I have every intention and plan to be a father to my children and involved in every aspect of their lives.  I have every intention of being there for my children financially, emotionally, and physically. I have also agreed to give full financial responsibility to my kids and I have also agreed to support Shonnah.

To our knowledge, Todd’s relationship with the female staff-member, who was a former intern and also, at his initiative, a live-in nanny in his house for over a year, is still ongoing. We believe that there are currently no biblical grounds for Todd to leave his wife and children. While it has been maintained that no physical contact happened between Todd and the former female intern until after he filed for legal separation from Shonnah, in the Boards’ eyes, the nature of the present relationship between Todd and his former staff member is that of adultery

Jessa and a roommate, both of whom Shonnah agreed to, by rental agreement, lived in a separate basement suite not as nannies. There were a few occasions when the roommate and Jessa babysat our children while Shonnah and I were out or on trips. Jessa was never a live in nanny. It was only while in Lakeland, that Shonnah and I agreed to hire Jessa and the roommate as nannies. They lived in Fresh Fire housing separate from our house and building. Jessa was only a nanny for a couple of months before Fresh Fire hired her as a receptionist. The roommate continued on as our nanny for another month.  

He has consumed more alcohol on a few occasions than is prudent or becoming a Christian leader (or any believer for that matter). His sins have been sins of the flesh and we do not defend them.

These events took place months ago and I have since repented of my actions. I have not been making poor choices with alcohol and choose to make healthy choices such as diet, exercise, prayer, and encouraging myself with friends and associates.”  [end]

___________________________

See also these related posts -

http://endtimespropheticwords.wordpress.com/2009/01/10/dave-bentley-letter-to-rick-joyner-on-todd-bentley-and-fresh-fire-ministries/

http://endtimespropheticwords.wordpress.com/2009/01/08/rick-joyner-on-making-todd-bentleys-adultery-appropriate/

http://endtimespropheticwords.wordpress.com/2008/12/31/todd-bentleys-mistress-jessa-revealed/

http://endtimespropheticwords.wordpress.com/2009/01/01/todd-bentley-is-ba-a-a-ck/

http://endtimespropheticwords.wordpress.com/2008/08/18/rick-joyner-on-todd-bentley-personal-problems-shonnah-bentley-deserving-to-sit-at-the-right-hand-of-god/

http://endtimespropheticwords.wordpress.com/2008/11/29/the-anointings-bad-for-you-excuses-from-fresh-fire-directors-re-lakeland-revival-todd-bentley-affair/

January 10, 2009 - Posted by endtimespropheticwords | False Prophets and Teachers, Fresh Fire ministries, Morning Star Ministries (Rick Joyner), New Apostolic Reformation (NAR), Prophecy, Revival, Rick Joyner, Shonnah Bentley, Todd Bentley, Todd Bentley divorce, signs and wonders | , , , , , | 44 Comments

44 Comments »

  1. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ywsn8hubWUI

    The Doctrine Twist

    Cow mooin, jumpin beans
    Liftin legs against the beams
    Tell ol Todd not to wait
    You ain’t getting home till late
    Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah
    We’re gonna Twist!

    Theres a church I know where false teachers go
    False Doctrine
    Twist! Twist!
    When you get an itch to do the Twist
    False Doctrine
    Twist! Twist!
    ‘They say good is bad, they say mom is dad
    False Doctrine
    Twist! Twist!

    Well, they’ll Twist around the Word tonight
    False Doctrine
    Twist! Twist!
    Truth is gonna fall with all their might
    False Doctrine
    Twist! Twist!
    They’re a preachin clowns, so they’ll take ya down
    False Doctrine
    Twist! Twist!
    Yeah Yeah!

    Well, they’ll Twist around the Word tonight
    False Doctrine
    Twist! Twist!
    Truth is gonna fall with all their might
    False Doctrine
    Twist! Twist!
    They say death is life, they say husband’s wife
    False Doctrine
    Twist! Twist!

    Comment by UnprofitableServant | January 10, 2009

  2. IT’S WONDERFUL TO SEE THE INFIGHTING AND WHO SAID WHAT AND TO SEE THE ENEMY DESTROYING THEMSELVES AND THE WHOLE WORLD CAN READ ALL ABOUT!

    Comment by brad | January 10, 2009

  3. So, umm, are there moles inside the movement or something? How on earth did you get a hold of this? Thanks by the way. This just goes to show how the wolves talk to each other… no honor among thieves I suppose.

    Comment by David | January 10, 2009

  4. Assuming that this letter is valid, Todd must have had someone else write this letter because the vocabulary and style does not sound like him at all.

    Comment by Bill | January 10, 2009

  5. How did you get a letter sent from Todd to Rick Joyner?!! I can’t imagine that either of them would want such a letter to be made public, and they certainly would not send it to you.

    Comment by Bill | January 10, 2009

  6. Has anyone else noticed that although Todd aligned himself with Bill Johnson, Che Ahn and John Arnott – it’s Rick Joyner who holds all the power?

    Comment by Javanut | January 10, 2009

  7. a ghostwriter wrote this. todd cannot write this well. it is too good english. this is the work of a ghost writer.

    Comment by iloveHispeace | January 10, 2009

  8. Miriam:

    How has the letter been verifed?

    Comment by Bene D | January 10, 2009

  9. “I know in my heart, we will survive this chaos and see true restoration.”

    What about true repentance???

    Comment by Ruitje | January 10, 2009

  10. Pastor in gay scandal: I’m back from ‘wilderness’
    By ERIC GORSKI, AP Religion Writer Eric Gorski, Ap Religion Writer Fri Jan 9
    Speaking out two years after being embroiled in a gay sex scandal, former evangelical pastor Ted Haggard said Friday his sexual identity is complex and can’t be put into “stereotypical boxes,” but that his relationship with his wife is stronger than ever.
    In an interview with The Associated Press, Haggard did not rule out a return to public life or the pulpit. He spoke before he appeared before TV critics in Los Angeles to promote “The Trials of Ted Haggard,” an HBO documentary on Haggard’s exile after his confession to “sexual immorality” and fall as a top evangelical leader.
    “I am guilty. I am responsible,” Haggard, 52, said Friday in a phone interview. “I got off track, and I am deeply sorry and I repent … I’m moving along in a positive direction.”
    Haggard resigned as president of the 30 million-member National Association of Evangelicals and was fired from the 14,000-member New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colo., in November 2006 amid allegations that he paid a male prostitute for sex and used methamphetamine.
    In a written apology at the time, Haggard confessed to a long battle against feelings contrary to his beliefs and admitted buying the drugs but said he never used them.
    During a guest sermon last November at a friend’s church in Illinois, Haggard said a co-worker of his father molested him when he was 7, an experience that “started to produce fruit” later. Clarifying that Friday, Haggard said: “I’m certainly not saying that because of that, I did this. I did what I did by my choice, and I’m responsible for it.”
    Haggard said he isn’t qualified to judge what factors into one’s sexuality, but still believes it’s “God’s perfect plan” for marriage to be between a man and woman.
    “I think sexuality is confusing and complex,” Haggard said. “I am totally completely satisfied with the relationship with my wife now, but I went through a wandering in the wilderness time, and I just thank God I’m on the other side of that.”
    Asked whether he could define his sexual identity, Haggard said: “The stereotypical boxes don’t work for me. My story’s got some gray areas in it. And, of course, I’m sad about that but it’s the reality.”
    Later Friday, in a Q&A session with reporters at a Television Critics Association meeting in Universal City, Calif., Haggard said he should have been more open with his family and his congregation earlier, calling his actions “hypocrisy.”
    Asked to expand on his attitude toward homosexuality, Haggard said, “I believe all human beings fall short of the standards they believe in.”
    He added, “I would say the biggest change is I now know about hatred than I ever dreamed, and I know it doesn’t help. And I know more about judgment and I know it doesn’t help. Since my experience, I know more about the power of love and forgiveness. I know a lot more about the necessity of people not judging one another.”
    At the time the film was shot in 2007, Haggard described still occasionally struggling with same-sex attraction. Asked Friday whether those attractions remain, Haggard did not say definitively but said he was “not anywhere near” where he was at that time.
    In the documentary premiering Jan. 29, Haggard is shown shuffling from motel to motel, driving a moving truck, enrolling in a college psychology course, struggling as a door-to-door salesman and pondering his fate while laying in a motel bed in a white undershirt.
    “At this stage in my life, I’m a loser — a first-class loser,” he says.
    Now back living in Colorado Springs, Haggard said Friday he hopes to build his business selling insurance and debt-reduction software and is considering marketing himself through a speakers bureau to share his story — “if the terms were right. I have to earn a living.”
    “If what I have is helpful to other people, then I want to make that available to them,” he said. “If it’s not, then I’m perfectly happy building my business.”
    Haggard also plans to launch a nonprofit group to help the poor and needy, his Web site says. As for a return to pastoring a church, Haggard said: “I have learned enough to know a lot can happen to anybody. And when Jesus is our Lord, we can’t plan our path.”
    The nature of Haggard’s return — and his harsh words in the film for his former church — is drawing criticism. Haggard is also is to tape an “Oprah Winfrey Show” appearance next week for an episode scheduled to air this month, a spokesman for the show confirmed Friday.
    “If you’re going to come out and begin a new life, why would you choose an HBO documentary, then meet with the liberal Hollywood press?” said H.B. London, a former counselor to Haggard and an executive at Focus on the Family in Colorado Springs. “The fact that he’s attacking the church or New Life Church, when they did so much to help him and his family, is below the belt.”
    Haggard lashes out at “the church” in the documentary, which was produced by Alexandra Pelosi, daughter of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. He said “the church has said go to hell” and “the church chose not to forgive me.”
    Over a 14-month period ending Dec. 31, 2007, New Life Church paid the Haggard family $309,020 in salary and benefits, according to a church document obtained by The Associated Press.
    The payout included $152,360 in salary for Ted Haggard, $62,177 in salary for his wife, Gayle, $26,426 for counseling, $11,168 for legal fees and $26,000 to help care for the couple’s special-needs son, who is in his early 20s.
    Haggard on Friday said his family is grateful for the severance, but he was angry for being forced to leave Colorado Springs as one condition. He also challenged the church’s statement that he halted a process meant to restore him, saying he still receives counseling.
    The church has since released Haggard from all restrictions, including a prohibition on speaking publicly, and both Haggard and church leadership say relations are positive.
    Haggard’s successor at New Life, Brady Boyd, wrote in a blog post Friday that “the motives behind every decision” involving the Haggards were pure, and the church was generous in its severance and support. He would not respond to Haggard’s specific complaints.
    In the AP interview, Haggard credited his therapists, whom he described as Christian believers who used secular therapy methods.
    “I just thought a spiritual solution would be the solution to everything that’s internal,” Haggard said. “That turned out not to be the case.”
    Of Mike Jones, his accuser, Haggard said: “I know he’s gone through a lot. When he said he had to say something, I believe it. And I think that was God encouraging him to do that.”
    Jones said Friday he considers Haggard a salesman seeking attention for his business.
    “I know he’s apologized to his church and family, blah, blah,” Jones said. “But the people he hurt is the gay community, and he’s never apologized to the gay community. He owes that.”
    Haggard has said his childhood experiences, including same-sex “sex play” with friends when he was in the seventh grade, started to manifest themselves when he turned 50, a few months before the scandal. That conflicts with Jones’ statement that Haggard paid him for sex for three years. Haggard on Friday declined to discuss the discrepancy.
    ___
    Associated Press Television Writer Lynn Elber in Universal City, Calif., contributed to this report.

    TED Haggard was once a supporter of Toronto Airport Christian Fellowship and John Arnott and John Arnott and TACF are supporter of the adulterous thieving scoundrel Todd Bentley

    http://endtimespropheticwords.wordpress.com/2008/12/07/john-arnott-che-ahn-and-bill-johnson-of-revival-alliance/
    http://endtimespropheticwords.wordpress.com/2009/01/10/todd-bentley-letter-to-rick-joyner-on-his-marriage-ministry-and-mistress-and-fresh-fire-infighting/

    Ted Haggard’s Reconciliation Efforts
    (December 5-13, 1995)
    On the evening of December 2nd, Ted Haggard, pastor of a 5,000 member church in Colorado and a leader of the AD 2000 prayer movement, felt an urgent impression of the Lord to visit immediately what was then known as the Toronto Airport Vineyard. In obedience, he arrived Tuesday, December 5th, at his own expense, but questioned the Lord, wondering what his purpose was in being there. He learned the following day that the Airport Vineyard had been disengaged from the Association of Vineyard Churches and immediately realized that God had brought him at a strategic time to mediate reconciliation efforts.
    John Arnott had already departed for a pre-scheduled conference in Seattle. However, feeling strongly that God had assigned him the task of mediating, Haggard flew, again at his own expense, to Seattle to meet with Arnott. The meeting lasted eight hours. Subsequently Haggard visited Anaheim where he enlisted the help of pastor Jack Hayford. They tried to meet with John Wimber, Todd Hunter and others representing the AVC. In the following letters Ted Haggard summarizes the outcome of his communication efforts with the AVC and John Wimber.

    December 13, 1995
    A summary of the outcome of reconciliation efforts.
    Issued by: Ted Haggard
    To Todd Hunter, AVC
    Dear Todd:
    I am sorry that this letter comes to you after time for your discussions rather than before. But after our conversation on the phone between 11 p.m. and 12 midnight on Saturday night, the 9th [of December], I knew that you had adequate material and fresh ideas to avert the severance between the Vineyard at large and the Toronto Airport Vineyard if you wanted to. I thank you so much for taking the time to meet with me on Saturday afternoon. Here are the ideas that I read to you on the phone. Since I don’t know much about any developments since Saturday night, I don’t know if they were helpful or not. But, if these ideas haven’t been of assistance in this conflict, maybe they include a seed that might be helpful in future years.
    This is the text that I read to you and that you wanted forwarded to your office:
    On Saturday morning, December 9th, John Wimber asked the national co-ordinator of the Vineyard, Todd Hunter, to review the developments of the previous week in regard to the Toronto Airport Vineyard, and gave him the authority to make any modifications that he felt were necessary. As a result, Todd Hunter made some substantial modifications, noting that they were interim decisions until time allowed for the Vineyard board to approve the following recommendations:
    1. The status of the Toronto Airport Vineyard would be put under review until an improved process is prepared for implementation.(This is the wording change that you requested after I spoke with John Arnott and he spoke with John Wimber before you had a chance to brief Wimber.)I still maintain, though, that the discussion that we had was correct in that the Toronto Airport Vineyard could easily be given a few weeks left “in the Vineyard” to give you enough time to develop a specific process to deal with them. I think they will always be able to honestly say that your office sent double signals and was not clear in its communication. After our meeting I read Wimber’s endorsement of Arnott’s book. Now I understand that Wimber didn’t read the manuscript but Arnott didn’t know that. That, plus many other things leaves your office open to accusation of injustice and lack of due process. You just can’t spank your children until they thoroughly understand what they are doing wrong and what the punishment will be if they continue.
    2. The Vineyard desires to construct a process that can be utilized when unusual spiritual phenomena consistently take place in a local church or when the spiritual phenomena develop into a potential movement within Vineyard churches. This process is to be both creative and redemptive, and one that can be utilized in future instances of unusual spiritual phenomena as well as this current outpouring commonly referred to a the “Toronto Blessing”.
    3. The Vineyard hopes that this newly created process will be a first step toward reversing the historical trend in the groups of churches of the seeming necessity to break fellowship with portions of the church that claim to be experiencing a supernatural outpouring of God’s Spirit. The Vineyard hopes to establish a model that can be used by other denominations and groups of churches that will facilitate greater unity and effectiveness for the cause of Christ.
    4. This new process is not intended to be a process for addressing blatant sin within the Body. The Vineyard does not intend to imply that this new process is designed to minister to those accused of sexual immorality, heresy, financial dishonesty, or any other sin that requires a direct, swift response. Instead, this process is designed exclusively for providing a course of action in the midst of questionable spiritual activity.
    5. This process will not only establish a well-understood procedure and provide the seed for a new model of denominational response, but will also accommodate those in leadership who have strong convictions that question the integrity of the spiritual activity, and those in the midst of the activity that believe that God is providing a refreshing and biblical outpouring.
    6. This new process will allow the Vineyard to classify any questionable churches into one of four categories, and each of the categories will have its own procedure. The comments below intentionally include few definitions or procedures. Those must be developed. Instead, these comments are only for the purpose of providing a starting point:
    • Probationary status: A process that provides a period of 30-60 months where the church or movement is given time to develop, answer for itself, and have a unique oversight arrangement that provides independence and distance for the denominational oversight group.
    • Birthing status:(Multiplication) A process that enables the friendly birthing of a new, independent church or movement.
    • Disciplinary status:(Split) A process that facilitates the dissolution of the relationship.It will provide procedure for both groups that will allow them to go in separate directions.
    • Associate status:(A friend of the Vineyard) A procedure that would establish the new movement as an independent movement still associated with the mother church, similar to the way Roman Catholics develop orders.
    7. The details of each status will be developed within the next few weeks by a panel of five men. Those invited will include:
    • Todd Hunter, national co-ordinator for the Vineyard, representing the denominational concerns like those developed in the current situation between the Vineyard and the Toronto Airport Vineyard.
    • Steve Long or maybe Fred Wright from the Toronto Airport Vineyard, representing those in the midst of unusual renewal and the views of groups that in the past have had to become independent.
    • Paul Cedar, president of the Evangelical Free Church. Paul is not only a mainstream, globally respected leader of the evangelical movement, but is also very aware of the dynamic culture of the groups that believe in the modern day operation of the gifts of the Spirit. He is also overseer of many churches and an excellent administrator. He leads Mission America 2000, is involved with the National Association of Evangelicals as well as the 2000 Movement.
    • John Holland, president of the Foursquare Church. John is a very thoughtful Pentecostal from a denomination that has made decisions that have been very good and very bad. Since his group has matured over the years, Jon’s insight into the issues that spark life, and those that have contributed to “dead churches”, is profound.
    • Ted Haggard, moderator.
    I am confident that these five could design a model policy in just two or three days that would be useful to many. I recommend that if you, John Wimber and the board of the Vineyard are interested in this idea, that a meeting be arranged of this or any other improved delegation with the authority to draft a suggested policy.
    Todd, it’s been a pleasure having this little window to get to meet you. Thanks again for taking time to met with me on Saturday night. To close my involvement with the Toronto Vineyard development, I’ll write a thank you letter to both John Arnott and John Wimber thanking them for the role they played during the week I tried to facilitate reconciliation. In addition, I’ll write a confidential analysis letter to Jack Hayford. Then I’ll be done unless requested.
    God bless you brother. I know you carry some awesome responsibilities and that God will give you grace as you faithfully serve and fear Him.
    In Christ,
    Ted Haggard

    December 13, 1995
    An Evaluation Of Reconciliation Efforts
    Issued By: Ted Haggard
    To John Arnott
    John Wimber
    Dear Gentlemen:
    I just wanted to write the two of you a note thanking you for taking the time to talk with me in my attempt to encourage the development of a system that would have provided a model for denominations to use when the type of situation develops that the two of you are facing. From the latest report that I have received, my efforts were not successful. I do hope, though, that even though they were unsuccessful with the two of you, that sometime in our lifetime we will find opportunity for the model to be established so that denominations don’t have to sever themselves from fellow Christians who are experiencing unusual spiritual phenomena. I realize that both of your schedules are pressing because of the Lord’s gracious blessing on your lives, so I wanted to express a warm “thank you” for hearing me.
    John Arnott: Thank you for the hours we spent together talking about historical trends and how powerful it would be if the Vineyard would validate for the world that denominations can develop those experiencing “revival” in an honourable way. Thank you for your humility and willingness to be flexible and submissive if the discussions would have ever gotten that far. In addition, thank you for taking the time where you were scheduled to be the primary speaker at several events so that we could work together. Your honourable, respectful, and submissive attitude toward the Vineyard was impressive. But most of all, I thank you for your broken heart. I know that the Lord will bless you for trying so desperately to hear and change, if necessary, to maintain relationships. And lastly, thank you for becoming a better listener during our time together.
    John Wimber: Thank you for taking the time to call on Friday night and then again on Saturday morning. I appreciate your schedule and your authority, so I was especially appreciative when you were willing to take the time to talk with Jack Hayford and to encourage Todd Hunter to meet with me. As you probably know, we had a very good meeting together at the airport for one hour on Saturday afternoon. I was especially moved when you said that nothing had been done with the Toronto Airport Vineyard that could not be undone. I also appreciated you honesty in saying that you were “finished” and “tired”.
    I know that neither of you knew me prior to last week, which makes me especially grateful that you would even talk with me. To interject myself into your struggle was very awkward for me and certainly not my style, but I was and continue to be absolutely convinced that God wanted to give us all a very unusual miracle that would have been a great blessing to the portion of the Body of Christ that is within our influence.
    Again, thank you so much for trying.
    In Christ,
    Ted
    cc: Jack Hayford

    December 13, 1995
    An Evaluation Of Reconciliation Efforts
    Issued By: Ted Haggard
    To Jack Hayford
    Dear Pastor Jack:
    As my role in the Vineyard conflict is complete, I will be sending you copies of the final correspondence that is being faxed to the leadership today. In addition, I wanted to let you know that the material that was in the December 8th fax to you is no longer considered confidential. Should you decide that it would be helpful to anyone, you are free to use it. I no longer believe that the material in that fax should be modified. I think it is and was accurate as written. As a matter of fact, I think it might be good for John Wimber to see that letter. To my knowledge, he still has no idea what we were trying to do.
    Finally, within the next week or so I’ll send you a couple of pages with my conclusions. Thank you so much for your gracious participation with me on this attempt. As far as I know, I failed at communicating an acceptable course of action to the Vineyard in time.
    God bless you. I’ll communicate later.
    In Christ,
    Ted
    cc: John Arnott
    back to top

    http://www.tacf.org/Default.aspx?tabid=157

    Comment by walter | January 10, 2009

  11. WOW.
    I just read this.
    See my post under Jessa.

    Comment by randy | January 10, 2009

  12. What evidence can you give that this is a genuine letter? Where was it published, and by whom? How did you get a copy? It appears to be a private letter published without permission. Are you able to reassure your readers that you have permission to publish this?

    Comment by Peter Kirk | January 10, 2009

  13. I pray that Todd, fully repents, gets rights with God, His wife and children. That he fully allows God to restore him and allows God to be fully in control of his life.

    Comment by Lela | January 10, 2009

  14. It seems to me that scandles abound in Americas religious’ poor Jesus seems to have disapeared in the process and is exactly what happens when Church and state overlap. Jesus did not faff about he got stuck in and whooped the demonic (gossip is demonic)and so I can only assume that a new understanding of both bible and state is required because right now the bibles in a state and the states are in the bible. What happens to the needy in the process Jesus the intercessor gives up his life to give us some

    Comment by joysome | January 10, 2009

  15. How did you receive these emails? They seem to have been sent privately and not posted for the world to see…how then did you happen upon them? Just curious…

    Even if the information is valid…if it was received unethically, well then…this isn’t an accusation but rather something that is really bothering me.

    -Jeff

    Comment by Jeff | January 10, 2009

  16. And how do we know this letter is authentic?

    And why does it sound like it was cut off?

    My comments on Rick Joyner’s pathetic waffling in his first remarks on the Bentley Blowout were reposted here on this forum (and I’m cool with that) even if I can’t find the link to the repost. I raise the issue because I can stand behind my own commentary because we can verify that they came from Joyner.

    I created these as a massive post on another bulletin board I frequent, one in which I had stated my concerns over the incipient instability of this “revival” from its inception. I was crucified by many but ultimately vindicated since the carnal nature of this revival circus couldn’t be hidden any longer.

    But where is the corroboration that Bentley wrote this?

    Comment by Rev Rafael | January 10, 2009

  18. Unprofitable Servant:

    So are you saying that Todd ate some pickled dodo eggs by mistake? ;)

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOUf5y0XHO0

    (Twitch Twitch! :) )

    Comment by Rick | January 10, 2009

  19. This doesn’t sound like a letter that has been looked over by a lawyer. I’d say that Todd wrote it himself. But I do get the distinct whiff of “future lawsuits” from this thing. Not sure when, not sure how, but I think Todd wants all of Fresh Fire.

    The rest of it is just self-serving justification garbage. If you’re going to sin, Todd, just sin. Don’t try justifying your bad behavior. Unfortunately, I know from observation that divorce is not the huge sin it was even 20 years ago, and that Todd’s life, once he gets the divorce from Shonnah and makes things right with Jessa, will be Just Fine. Everyone Will Forgive Him.

    Comment by mirele | January 10, 2009

  20. If Todd Bentley’s “Restoration” process with Rick Joyner isn’t aimed at restoring his marriage, what’s he being restored to? Public Ministry? Please say it ain’t so.

    Todd Bentley is toxic and poses a real spiritual danger to whoever he comes into contact with, especially in front of large crowds.

    He needs to find a job pumping gas or detailing Harleys and forget about the ministry. Let alone remarriage.

    That Joyner and company would even consider such a thing in light of all these confirmed details is equally as disturbing.

    However, it appears as though Joyner believes there must still be some financial value in the FFM brand name. He can buy it (attach his name)with Bentley at a fire sale price and leverage it back for some positive cash-flow it appears!

    Comment by Scooter | January 10, 2009

  21. Thank you for your comments, very sad, but true.
    However, not everyone in America is out of touch with
    reality and the truth of the Holy Scriptures or movement
    of true gifts. What you have stated is just another example of end time deception, and I thank you for
    exposing deception and proclaiming truth over this situation.

    Comment by Peggy Irwin | January 10, 2009

  22. So, is Todd now proclaiming innocence on the adultery charge? (Personally, I could care less who Todd wad doing, but doesn’t the bible condemn that?) What is a concern, is that this loser was bilking thousands of individuals of hard earned money while making promises of healing. Also, is Bentley now saying he is still in control of Fresh Fire Ministries? This reeks of hypocrisy at its worst! These type of people are one of the reasons that I have abandoned the faith. I find more openness and honesty from people in my favorite pub on a Saturday evening! As a former Pastor, I can assure you that most Pastors have something to hide!

    Comment by Michael | January 10, 2009

  23. More evidence that Rick Joyner is the Grand master of NAR. It all sounds like Politics and Propaganda. I know more about Gaza than about these nutjobs.

    Comment by Avshalom | January 10, 2009

  24. Ted Haggard’s choices had him stoned and put outside the camp. He never left his wife or children and they didn’t leave him (that I know of). The message to me hear, is that it is ok if a wife is sacrificed for a ministry career. John Hagee did the same and it’s business as usual.

    Comment by Canadanorth | January 10, 2009

  25. This letter was recieved by me by thoroughly honest means – it was not stolen, nor were there any moles in the movement sending it me. It was an ‘open’ letter to some degree among certain folk in Todd’s circles [it was not private just for Rick and Todd's eyes] – and it has been verified by three reliable and very central witnesses as being authentic.

    Comment by endtimespropheticwords | January 10, 2009

  26. To the person that claims this cannot be from Todd because he cannot write this well – he has spellcheck like everyone else on his computer, and also has assistants to help him draft things in better language if/where need be.

    Comment by endtimespropheticwords | January 10, 2009

  27. I believe that it is real, and can understand that you don’t want to reveal exactly how you obtained it. But I’m sure you’ll have to deal with a lot of flak about just this issue as any journalist would. But keep up the good fight! Truly, what is conspired in secret will be shouted on the housetops. Why can’t Christian leaders be more transparent with their churches?

    Comment by David | January 11, 2009

  28. This infighting between Todd and Fresh Fire reminds me of a great passage in scripture how the enemies of God’s people killed themselves:

    2 Chronicles 20:22 Now when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushes against the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah; and they were defeated. 20:23 For the people of Ammon and Moab stood up against the inhabitants of Mount Seir to utterly kill and destroy them. And when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, they helped to destroy one another. 20:24 So when Judah came to a place overlooking the wilderness, they looked toward the multitude; and there were their dead bodies, fallen on the earth. No one had escaped.

    Comment by susan | January 11, 2009

  29. Rick said,

    “Unprofitable Servant:

    So are you saying that Todd ate some pickled dodo eggs by mistake?

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOUf5y0XHO0

    (Twitch Twitch!)”

    Rick, I do believe he may have done just that :)

    Comment by UnprofitableServant | January 11, 2009

  30. The verses Paul wrote in Romans comes to mind with regard to this train wreck:::>

    Rom 16:17 I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.
    Rom 16:18 For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.
    Rom 16:19 For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil.
    Rom 16:20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

    We should all take note of the promise there in verse 20.

    We further should all note this:::>

    Heb 12:25 See that you do not refuse him who is speaking. For if they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, much less will we escape if we reject him who warns from heaven.
    Heb 12:26 At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, “Yet once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.”
    Heb 12:27 This phrase, “Yet once more,” indicates the removal of things that are shaken–that is, things that have been made–in order that the things that cannot be shaken may remain.
    Heb 12:28 Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe,
    Heb 12:29 for our God is a consuming fire.

    Finally, we should all be mindful where and when judgment begins:::>

    1Pe 4:12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.
    1Pe 4:13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.
    1Pe 4:14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.
    1Pe 4:15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler.
    1Pe 4:16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.
    1Pe 4:17 For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?
    1Pe 4:18 And “If the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”
    1Pe 4:19 Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.

    Comment by michael | January 11, 2009

  31. I have seen what Todd can type on his myspace. Makes you wonder if those scribe angels are real!?!?!?

    Comment by Avshalom | January 11, 2009

  32. Thank you Miriam for all that you do…
    Todd Bentley coming back must be resisted… I have personally witnessed many lives that have been destroyed by this powerful false demonic anointing.
    There are many mp3,s and newsletters on my web page exposing this false prophet… and his enablers http://www.patholliday.com/radio.php
    I am sorry about his wife and children but I am also concerned about the millions in the body of Christ that have been deceived and possessed by this demonic movement in Lakeland.
    May God Have Mercy,
    Pat Holliday

    Comment by Pat Holliday | January 11, 2009

  33. wHEN YOU ONLY HAVE YOUR HEAD IN SCRIPT URE !(GET IT ANAGRAM, PARABLE) It means you don’t have the actual practical means to overcome the demonic, meaning what, I hear you say!, The mantel of the FATHER. To get the mantel of the father you do what, pick up Esther and allow the father to ‘dress’ you ie take man from your ways and walk into his. the discernment then becomes a liveing thing and not just guess work!

    Comment by joysome | January 11, 2009

  34. Hey Pat!

    I saw you a few years back on “Its Supernatural”. I would be intrested in hearing your thoughts on much of Sid Roth’s content. I like alot of his Jewish guests but alot of dangerous guests on his show aswell plus he plugged Lakeland through his programme and since Lakeland other associates from Lakeland have made it on air with him.

    Comment by Avshalom | January 11, 2009

  35. Umm, joysome, you don’t overcome the demonic by ignoring scripture … you just open yourself right up to them, which is what it seems like you’ve already done. The word’s in scripture are life … more than you seem to know.

    Comment by David | January 12, 2009

  36. Well thats part of the problem with the whole movement. Don’t have head knowledge or discernment just accept it. They said that about Toronto, RHB said it about his meetings and they still say it today.

    Richard Roberts at TACF a few years ago forged the “laughter” by saying HA HA HA HA, then repeating it over and over and over and over and over…. well you get the idea, until the whole room broke out in laughter. Starting with a few people laughing at the idiot on stage then people laughing at each other laughing.

    Richard Roberts told the people at TACF when someone says your out of your mind, say Yep I am out of my mind and in the spirit.

    Fools!

    Comment by Avshalom | January 12, 2009

  37. >Dear thenonconformer you are the one who is the accuser of the brethren, not me?

    My getting personal again.. you like to give it to others but can’t take a rebuke yourself ehh.. Please do Stop telling any others what to do .. live it yourself.. what you are speak louder than any of your words

    Look who is accusing me now here firstly TIM himself.. you got so personal with someone you do not know, never met as well.. and such a hypocrite now too you are..

    when the Holy Spirit comes he will also reprove the world of sin, judgment, righteousness.. and not be an Ostrich to their sins, wrong doings

    One is not a Christian for too long before one encounters the dispensationalist topics of Prophecy- Tribulation, the anti Christ, such as http://endtimespropheticwords.wordpress.com the same people who seem to be more fascinated with the future over living in the present.. Now one thing for certainly I know as well many of these overboard persons tend to have very little love for others, other Christians in reality, and I can only concluded that they really are not lead by the Holy Sprit, are not open to the fruit and gifts of the Holy Spirit as well.. (Rev 3:19 KJV) As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.

    http://postedat.wordpress.com/2009/01/12/posted/

    Comment by thenonconformer | January 12, 2009

  38. I cynically thought Todd would be back after six months. Well, it’s on track for that. I Reckon he’ll be back on GodTV with his new wife as soon as he can legally marry her.

    He’s probably writing ‘prophetic poetry’ to Jessa right now!

    Statistically speaking, divorce rates go up the more times you have been married. Bad luck Jessa. Watch out for those pretty young interns!

    Comment by Bull | January 12, 2009

  39. Thenonconformer- just talks to hear himself talk and needs our prayers at it seems he is a very angry bitter unforgiving person!

    Comment by brad | January 12, 2009

  40. First and foremost, isn’t the Holy Spirit our defender?? That should be enough said.

    A spouse is never excused from their vows no matter how many problems and years they’ve experienced problems in their relationship/marriage. Separation is not divorcement…both spouses are still married though separated, thus, should they actually be with another?

    Unfortunately, many in ministry get the “line up” out of sync, becoming unbalanced. God comes first, then family, followed by church/life in general.

    Comment by Tonya | January 13, 2009

  41. There is a video on youtube ‘Todd Bentley Is Back’
    The song that is being sung is telling if that is how Todd feel about christians.

    One line says “I’ll play your fool again, one more time.” Sad part is many, many people will and he know it.
    Sherry

    Comment by Sherry | January 17, 2009

  42. If this letter is true. I prayed it is not. It is somehow sadden to have such a man like Todd preaching and claiming to work miracles. The problem is not about he committing immorality but on not realizing that he has sinned against God. We know that Peter denied Jesus but we also know that he wept bitterly thereafter. How can a man wish restoration to ministry when there is no desire to be reconciled back to God. Can we say that Christ is a minister of sinners. Be warned then many will say on the last days in His name they have casted out devils. Not all that called him Lord will enter into the Kingdom of heaven

    Comment by Aladesanmi | January 17, 2009

  43. I was just reading about Todd’s supernatural experiences on Moriel Ministries. I knew nothing of his claims until a few minutes ago and I will say this: In the late 60’s and early 70’s I did LSD, methadone ect. and his ’spiritual experiences’ sound the same as drug ‘TRIPS’. Your brain and senses are super human and could open up to demon influence. I believe that is what is happening when he talks of portals. Remember the song “Knocking on Heaven’s Back Door” This is what it means.

    Comment by Canadanorth | January 18, 2009

  44. As a christian I cant believe the hatred I am reading about Todd who is incidently still a brother in Christ..Our prayers should be covering him and his wife .Satan is laughing at all of those who call them selves followers of Christ and yet by the garbage Ive been reading most need to repent themselves..
    I went to Lakeland last summer for a few days. I also watched the Outpouring from april thru Sept. Only an idiot would call the incredible worship and love of Jesus false doctrine..it was a revival people it was a season of the Oupouring of the Holy Spirit upon Lakeland that moved out accross the world in signs miracles and wonders..It revived most of us who were dry and who yearned for the presence of God. Just to be in a place with thousands of believers loving and praising the Lord for hours sometimes was unlike anything I have ever experienced and hungriy long for more.Todds love for Jesus Christ was humble and bold at the same time. His motivations each night were to lift the Name of Christ and on many many occasions made it clear that it was not about Todd but about Jesus.. He wanted no part of anything that would bring him fame of any sort..On many many nights Todd didnt even take donations. And i heard from the camermen that it took an enormouse amount of money to pay for everyone that ran the revival.Whatever makes everyone think that all of that was free? Just like my pastor expects our giving to make the payments on the bldg and other expenses so also were the needs at Lakeland.
    My life has been immeasurable blessed thru Todd and Roy and the rest of the staff.. I am more on fire (thank you Todd for your childlike faith and energy and all you gave in your obedience to the outpouring) My only prayer for you is for your repentant reconcilliaton to your wife that the Lord may once again bless and use you in another great move of God .

    Comment by JANIA | March 28, 2009


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