Escaping Being Bamboozled, Hoodwinked, & Led AstrayEscaping Being Bamboozled, Hoodwinked, & Led Astray
Resilient Truths
Dr. Bell discusses the experience of being manipulated and used by others, emphasizing the importance of discerning the spirit behind actions. She warns against trusting actions that are not based on a person's character or the Spirit of God. The gifts of
55:07•5 Jul 2024
Resilient Truths and Real Talk: Spotting Spiritual Manipulation
Episode Overview
- Spiritual gifts can operate without repentance, so outward power isn’t proof that someone is led by God.
- Check that a person’s behaviour and character match their words before trusting their ministry or prophecy.
- Ask God to confirm any word spoken over your life; don’t accept guidance that leads to confusion or harm.
- Discern spirits by staying close to Scripture and being sensitive to inner warning signs when something feels off.
- Recognise that issues like narcissism and mental illness can exist in church settings and affect teaching and leadership.
“If God does not confirm his word through the gift, then the person is just operating out of the gift; God ain’t in that.”
This episode dives deep into the challenges and triumphs of learning who to trust spiritually, especially when gifts and miracles look impressive on the surface. Resilient Truths’ Dr Theresa M Bell walks a group through Romans 11:29 and 1 Corinthians 12:4–11, unpacking how “the gifts and calling of God are without repentance” and why that truth can leave people feeling bamboozled, hoodwinked, or led astray. Across the study, you’ll hear real conversation rather than polished speeches.
Dr Bell jokes about her torn-up Bible and her dislike of long, showy prayers, then gets serious about the risk of following spiritual gifts instead of God’s character.
She points out, “If God does not confirm his word through the gift, then the person is just operating out of the gift; God ain’t in that.” The group talks frankly about preaching, prophecy, tongues, and healing, and how any of these can be used in vain or for personal gain if someone isn’t led by the Holy Spirit.
Narcissistic leadership, control, and money-focused ministry come up repeatedly, along with the damage they can cause to vulnerable people who are looking for help.
Mental illness within church settings is named openly, with Pastor Ronnie noting the need to “renew your mind daily” so you don’t end up doing things that are “not of God.” You’ll also hear practical examples of discerning spirits: feeling a heavy presence in a room, sensing when something is off, and refusing to say “amen” to words you don’t understand.
The tone stays direct, honest, and a bit humorous, but the message is clear — study the word for yourself, check that someone’s life matches their language, and don’t hand over your heart or your money just because a person looks powerful. If you’ve ever worried about being spiritually misled, this raw, faith-centred conversation might get you asking: whose voice are you really following?
Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!
More From This Show
The latest episodes from the same podcast.