18
itself, validate the source. Jesus warned his followers concerning the miraculous, "For false
christs and false prophets will arise and show great signs and wonders, so as to deceive, if
possible, even the elect (Matthew 24:24)."
The Apostles continued the biblical pattern. Signs and wonders were secondary to the
gospel proclamation. The Holy Spirit empowered men who were conscious and cognizant of the
Spirit's filling as Paul epitomizes (1 Cor. 14:32). Paul's ministry was not noteworthy for signs
and wonders. Paul faithfully proclaimed the gospel and was used by God to shape the fledgling
church by his theological and practical epistles. (2 Cor.6: 4-11) Paul utilized spiritual gifts, but
remained focused on the Giver. (2 Cor. 12) Pauls statement that the gospel came not "in word
only, but also in power" requires affirmation of the Spirits role in evangelism without
demanding "signs and wonders." (1 Thess.1:15)
In Wagners theology Christians are pitiful and helpless creatures that can only be delivered
by Third Wave prayer. Wagner professes orthodoxy. However, it is more experiential than
biblical.
67
Wagners mentor, John Wimber, states, "It is when one adds practice to theory that
you find out what people truly believe."
68
Wagners actions reveal a theology that is far from
orthodox. This is seen in his hermeneutics, pneumatology, and demonology. Wagner declares,
"Christianity is growing ,,out of control!" He attributes this growth to the Third Wave.
Based on his writings, it appears that Wagner validates his aberrant theology, not on
scripture, but on personal experiences and pragmatism. The Third Waves broad acceptance rests
largely on C. Peter Wagners promotion within the Church Growth Movement. Wagners
67
Wagner, Look Out!, 128.
68
Wagner, Dark Angels, 39.