Be wary of shepherds who are fleecing the flock

Nairobi; Kenya: Last weekend’s expose on the ways of a Nairobi preacher with his flock has expectedly been the talk of the week. The Jicho Pevu investigative report by the KTN crew uncovered the dark side of what often passes for gospel preaching. It is unfortunate but many strange things are being done in the name of God. Religion is being abused by greedy conmen, deranged psychopaths, fanatical radicals, and power hungry false prophets for selfish gain. All these men and women prey on unsuspecting innocent worshipers, many of who are desperate for divine intervention in their lives. A sad state indeed.

The truth is that fake preachers, prophets and miracle workers are as old as religion. When Moses appeared before Pharaoh and performed miracles to convince Pharaoh to release the people of God, the Egyptian magicians were at hand with their own miracles to turn Pharaoh’s heart away. Elijah had to confront the prophets of Baal at Mount Carmel after they turned many people from true worship by their false miracles and teachings. Jesus had uncountable run-ins with religious leaders of His time. Paul was severally opposed by false prophets and teachers in the course of his missionary journeys.