“In essence, this podcast is filled with information from one side of the coin. The narrator says multiple times regarding some of the practices of Hillsong “aren’t very Christian.” While I agree that Hillsong has a host of issues, mainly failing to care for the spiritual health and well-being of people through the grace of Jesus, he clearly has a bad taste in his mouth about Christianity. As a Christian I am saddened by the issues of Hillsong and am saddened for the people hurt by them/their practices. Even more so, I am saddened by the damage to the witness of Christ they have caused. The journalist does not seem to make any distinction between Hillsong’s missteps and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The narrator even says (and I’m paraphrasing) “I’m not against anyone’s religion” and “this is further proof to me that the Bible is of no use at all” when he very clearly has a singular story to tell about the Christian faith here. He touts his journalistic background throughout, but for me it seems to be more opinionated that neutral reporting.
When “Faith” is on trial, you get both sides of the story. With this podcast, you get documented negative experiences of former church members from someone who is salivating to rip down the Faith while simultaneously showing no interest to see or hear from the other side (for example, a representative from true Christian organizations such as Desiring God, The Gospel Coalition, or Crossway).
For anyone interested, Acts 20:28 calls pastors to care for their congregation. They are spiritually accountable in ways other Christians aren’t for the care for other Christians. The prosperity gospel is not Christianity, and anyone who spends a few minutes talking to a faithful Christian (who is still an imperfect sinner) will realize that. It is unfortunate this journalist was unable/unwilling to do just that.”
IamSecond116 via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
04/18/23