My hope, with this blog, is to be the "pied piper" who says to the confused, hurting and/or frustrated people in the church: It's okay to question the things you're hearing from the "Evangelical Industrial Complex;" I hope I can help you to filter through all the shallow and confusing things you've been told, and to help you come to a deeper understanding of what it means to be a Christian.
I've been a professional artist for the past 30 years.
Here's an example of one of my watercolor paintings:
This is a detail photo of that painting with a penny on top,
to show the amount of detail in my paintings:
As you can see, I like details, clarity and accuracy.
I'm not a professional writer or blogger; but I'm just as passionate about God and the study of God ("theology") as I am about my art. I've put my (borderline) OCD into work over the past few years to try and figure out what's going on in the church today. And I'm shocked and disgusted by the sorry state of Christianity in America: megachurches being run by megalomaniacs; heretical teachings being passed off as just "another way of looking at it;" sorcery, divination and demonic activity being called "holy spirit"... the list of examples could go on and on. Btw, when I say "Evangelical Industrial Complex" I'm not referring to actual orthodox Evangelical beliefs, I'm referring to the super pastors and celebrity authors (and the giant "Christian" publishing and television business) that have rejected Biblical beliefs and have added man-made teachings.
This blog was, first of all, a place where I could link together all the helpful websites, articles and videos I'd discovered, and easily share them with others. This will continue to be the primary thing I do here. The websites that I've compiled (in the right-hand column) have a tremendous amount of great information! Some of them are dedicated to pointing out false teaching ("discernment sites") and others are focused more on solid, Biblical teaching.
Secondly, I wanted an outlet to share the ideas that I had been writing, and I will be posting my own articles here on a fairly regular basis (I put a list of them below). I am not able to reply to all comments from readers, but it's only because I need to focus on my work as an artist most of the time; feel free to comment nonetheless.
This whole journey started when I started reading along in my Bible while the sermon was being preached at church. I've been a musician in various "praise bands" for many years, so I've been to a million services-and listened to a million sermons.
This is a photo from a church website where I used to go just five years ago...That's me playing electric guitar on the right side of this photo (you can't really see my guitar).
When I decided to critically examine everything I was hearing at church and then compare it to the Bible, my whole world changed. I discovered that what the pastor said and what the Bible said were sometimes two different things. The Bible truly is God's Word, but is must be correctly interpreted and taught-period. Whenever I discovered that it was being taught incorrectly I left that church-period. I'm not ashamed to say I went through a period of "church-hopping" because I was seeking a church that emphasized God's Word above the teachings of man. I don't play in a praise band anymore, by the way; I'm very happy to sing hymns accompanied by a big beautiful organ.
Here's me with one of my "online mentors" Chris Rosebrough (This is when we first met in person, and I had just gave him a print of my watercolor):
The church is not suffering for a lack of information-it's suffering because very few Christians are even looking at the information that's available (including most pastors). All it takes is the correct starting point to discover the error in today's teachings. If you start here: "my pastor is really nice (or smart, or whatever) so I will just trust what he says" then all the information on earth is useless. But if you start here: "I'm going to find out for myself if this is true; I'm going to study God's Word for myself and I'm going to find the very best teachers" then a whole new world quickly emerges (and it's kinda scary at first). When I discovered all the other believers who were reaching similar conclusions as me (or who were, at least, asking the same questions as me), it gave me hope and encouragement. I hope that, ultimately, that will be the result of everyone visiting this site. Please turn off the TV, turn on your brain and start reading the Bible for yourself! Do your own research and ignore what "the group" is saying. Being a follower of Jesus is truly anti-establishment; and the "American Evangelical Industrial Complex" is not the true church (it's The Messed Up Church).
Because many churches and pastors are not doing the job of calling out false teachers (as they should), this blog exists. I'm part of the tiny group of Christians that can't sit by and allow my brothers and sisters to be deceived by false teachings and corrupt men.
May God bless you as you seek to know Him! -Steven Kozar
List of Steven Kozar articles:
Btw, the snarky sarcasm is my way of grabbing people's attention and getting them to think. Sorry if it you offends you ( I'm actually a pretty nice guy). I am not writing for theologians and seminary professors (I'm not qualified for that)-I'm trying to write articles that lot's of people will actually read, understand and benefit from.
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2015/11/congratulations-youve-abandoned.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2015/10/when-did-church-turn-into-amway-by.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2015/09/a-parable-about-ignorance-in-church-and.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2015/08/not-feeling-it-gospel-for-everyone-else.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2015/08/bible-believing-christian-by-steven.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2015/08/is-it-apostasy-or-just-coincidence-by.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2015/08/not-feeling-it-gospel-for-everyone-else.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2015/07/eliminating-cognitive-dissonance-and.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2015/06/how-to-know-for-sure-that-you-are-part.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2015/05/false-teaching-about-false-teaching.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2015/05/the-users-guide-to-postmodern.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2015/03/hey-pastors-wanna-protect-false.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2015/03/the-new-apostolic-reformation-end-times.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2015/03/want-some-false-doctrine-in-your-life.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2014/10/charismatic-bullying-from-pulpit.html
http://themessedupchurch.blogspot.com/2014/10/death-distraction-and-pixie-dust.html
How do I sign up for regular blog updates? Do you have a fb site?
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for your interest, Mary! All I have right now is this blog-but I'll try and figure out how to add the notify/update feature. I have a Facebook page but it's only about my paintings (I'm an artist for a living). I really appreciate your interest-I've got a LOT more ideas to post in the months ahead!
ReplyDeleteSteven Kozar
Hi! I love you guys and what you do. I was involved, as many other people have been, with these types of movements for 7 years and got out 2 years ago. I think it's great that these mainstream people are getting exposed. Here is the issue, there are a lot of under-the-radar places that are so much more deceiving than the obvious. I would compare it to how people view freemasonry vs lower level fraternities and sororities. They know that masonry is bad, but not the lower level of the same fruit. I will share this video and I hope you guys would hit the bar. This is the most common thing that is going on and is causing mass deception in churches. My old pastor was EXACTLY like this guy in 95% of the ways.
Deletehttps://youtu.be/K2suctvIO7s
Thanks so much.
like the Bereans ...
ReplyDeleteenjoyed visiting your blog today, Steve!
Thanks Dwight! You ROCK, as always!
Deletejust printed your words to read your wiseness and learn English, dad! you are the nicest writer and artist :) from S.K
ReplyDeleteLOVE LOVE LOVE you!!
DeleteWow, Steve Kozar.
ReplyDeleteBlew me away when I found a link to this. I've been wanting to get a hold of you. Sue an I bought a farm in Viola, wi and raise beef now. Leading worship at the Grand View Family Worship in Richland Center. Check out my blog when you get a chance.
I found you too... will take a look see at the sites compiled A-Z...
ReplyDeleteI found you too... will take a look see at the sites compiled A-Z...
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for sharing your thoughts! I'm so thankful for guys like you and programs like "Stand Up for the Truth" and "Pirate Christian Radio." I've been on a similar journey as you describe for the last 4 years, and so grateful to have found a church that believes the Bible is the ultimate authority and a pastor who unashamedly preaches what God's Word means, not "what it means to him." Thanks!
ReplyDeleteRe: Shocking Stuff You're Not Supposed to Know! - where you are "Trying" to give Biblical quotes that YOU SAY are about Pastor Steven Furtick (The EVIL ONE).....May I say with all due respect (Which is ZERO), that ALL of the Bible passages that you took the time to look up or "Google" that were supposed to HURT PAstor Furtick, ACTUALLY did Just the opposite, you actually PROVED that He is a Beloved Pastor who is doing nothing by teaching the TRUTH, HE not is Boastful at all, he is by FAR a narcissist, HE donates more money to the Church than you could donate in 10 years (Not that you would donate anything seeing as you are not even CLOSE to be a Christian. You Sir, truly make me sick for spewing hatred and lies. For ALL of the articles and diarrhea that you are spewing about PAstor Furtick, are REALLY ABOUT YOU! Not him, YOU, and for that...as you so cleverly pointed out, will be going to HELL. Have a Blessed Furtick Day.
ReplyDeleteI really appreciate what you are doing for the Christendom, however, you need to improve with your interviews e.g the one with Bart McCurdy where 90% of the time you are the one doing the talking. In future, please let your guest do the talking. Hoping to hear more from you.
ReplyDeleteHi Steven. Wondering if you've ever been to Bethel Church in Redding or communicated with any of the pastors there about your views of their errors?
ReplyDeleteI respect this article for the very much investigated substance and magnificent wording. I got so included in this material that I couldn't quit perusing. I am awed with your work and aptitude. Much obliged to you to such an extent. Pastor Alph Lukau Church
ReplyDeleteI am curious to hear your stance on the baptism of the Holy Spirit as evidenced by speaking in tongues both with and without interpretation.
ReplyDeleteSo...do you consider yourself a Christian? A man of God?
ReplyDeleteI hope you're not in line with John MacArthur...
ReplyDeleteWOW 😯 I Love you guys.... Why have I not heard and seen your ministry before now? I love Paulette’s contribution (and Lucy’s of course 😝). Your views & the way you see eternity (I’ve just watched the Beth Moore Episode 6) is exactly how I taught my kids. You guys are so down to earth and (without sounding creepy 🙄 😂) we would so get along as I feel like you are long lost friends. Thanks for your ministry as it is helping me transition from modern day Pentecostalism to the Truth of God’s Word. It isn’t easy for me atm as I am being accused of being judgemental and prideful. It hurts but I am willing to take up my Cross daily for the sake of the Gospel. I could go on... I would like to just say how much I appreciate you and pray your ministry grows. WE NEED THIS at these times. Oh, one more thing? Please do a segment/episode on Joyce Meyer? Pleeeeze! She has been a mentor in the past and now I am having to do a paradigm shift in my mind from all that which I thought was Truth. Thanks 😊
ReplyDeleteI just got out of a cult three years ago. I was orphaned twice and taken in by narcissists. God did some great things.. Got me out even tho the enemy is trying to get me to stay in agreement with that church. Lying spirit..
ReplyDeleteI need the gospel. The way you explain things clicks. I am discouraged.. So much confusion and i blocked out a lot from PTSD. But I think my ole cult was works based.. Do you have an articl3 where you break down the gospel? Just gor done watching your vid on Todd White. Im so confused and I cant decide if im deceived or if they are.. Thank you so much
All cults are works based. That's what makes them cults. True Christianity teaches that it is by the faith of Christ that men are justified. Not by His or anyone else's works. Paul said this in Gal.2:16. This means that when we trust Jesus as He trusted the Father we are justified just as He was. Only in this way can we truly be saved by grace through faith without works.
Deletehttps://m.youtube.com/watch?v=yeekHVEjuYs&feature=youtu.be
Hi, I am from Germany, and left charismatics and WOF over a year ago. I am so thankful for your channel, Steven Kozar, and the many posts that help me stand up for the true Christian Gospel. It was God's grace alone that I am now no longer a member of this Messed Up Church. I like your podcast very much. However, what I don't understand is Paulette's role as a laugh sack. That is annoying to unbearable for me. All the other humorous interludes are well placed. Thank you so much for your encouragement!
ReplyDeleteHi Paulette and Steve,
ReplyDeleteGod lead me First to Doreen Virtue in 2019, then Chris Roseborough. You all helpped me to use my mind, instead of being indoctrinated and whipped up emotionally to confirm to a non-gospel without the bible! It has been a tumultuous journey for nearly two years now. The result is that I have now left my Pentecostal church (last week in fact), this is because have begun to re-evaluate my faith and theology learned over 50 years of teaching in church and on the mission field.
What I have seen is that the charismatic/Pentecostal movement has been pressing into and challenging Biblical authority by emphasising experience as the measure of truth against scripture. This has been occurring all this time through music, house groups, away weekend conferences propounding an ideology which criticises the established churches for being dull and non-spirit filled. I can remember this happening from the early 70's and it is still going on now.
So - I am so grateful for God's amazing grace leading me to you all and helping me to step back and look at what is going on and question my belief in the authority of prophecy, tongues, 'words of knowledge', 'pictures' and all other subjective nonsense I thought was from God.
I am from East London, England. It is amazing that all the churches around me seem to be preaching a Christ-less gospel. The Baptist over the road, Word of Faith, The Anglican, down the road, a mixture of New Age, liberalism smattered with bible verses out of context just to keep Jesus as an empty symbol of a long gone scriptural reality which is not really believed bible anymore. The Baptist up the road, Progressive Christianity, a truly blasphemous concoction of beliefs which merges all religions into one dark cocktail of lies, an old sin of syncretism plus a rejective of atonement and hell. All will go to heaven. Then the Anglican just a bit further away from me - now a repurposed building with commercial units to let for artisans and start up companies. The community church centre, twenty mins walk from me, now a NAR hub with extremist prophets peddling dreams and a false demonic Jesus and his angels who are like blue genies to grant wishes and keep us safe. Where to go? What to do? 2 years ago I would have thought they were all fine. Now I am orphaned in a dessert.
So you discernment teachers have become my church family and I am having to get down on my knees and really get to know my Lord by reading his word! I'm a bit lost, but actually, I am found!
God bless and Praise God
I learn so much from Chris' exegesis and watch him for that. Doreen and Melissa, your insight on New Age has been so revealing and useful. But Steve, I think I am learning such a lot about critical thinking from you. (And Paulette, your insights are very so good too - God has chosen the weak things of this world to shame the strong, that's probably out of context. But be confident Paulette, Steve is a proper brain box, but you have great wisdom and insight).
Thank you for allowing me to write to you.
Kind Regards,
Gillian
I pray that the Lord will continue to use you Kozars. I want to pray that you will stay yourselves. That you will not be moulded by pressures to perform. I pray that the Lord will continue to lead and guide you both. God Bless