Christian right ideology and the prayer warriors

Benny Hinn, an American televangelist, left Australia after his last visit with nearly $1 million in his pocket. Significant NAR figures go in and out of Australia, but para-church groups such as the 50 or so which organise the National Days of Prayer, as well as companies such as the Australian Christian Lobby, are remarkably shy about publicly revealing much about their finances.

Churches of Christ is the only major denomination in a formal partnership with Focus on the Family, whose founder is one of the most significant warriors of the political and Christian right. Transforming Melbourne, with its related prayer and pastor networks, is a major promoter of NAR strategies and prophetic direction (Resource Directory for the New Apostolic Reformation).

Should we worry?

The US Department of Homeland, in a recent report, “assesses that the combination of environmental factors that echo the 1990s … as well as new trends, including an uncertain economy and a perceived rising influence of other countries, may be invigorating rightwing extremist activity … To the extent that these factors persist, rightwing extremism is likely to grow in strength.” (Rightwing Extremism: Current Economic and Political Climate Fueling Resurgence in Radicalization and Recruitment, Office of Intelligence and Analysis Assessment, April 2009.)

Does it matter that NAR’s Joel’s Army pastors are called “commandant”, and that they believe “that once democratic institutions are overthrown, their hierarchy of apostles and prophets will rule over the earth”? Will it matter much if Sarah Palin finally becomes a General in Joel’s Army? (“Arming for Armageddon”)

Well remember, it was only a couple of years ago that NAR groups in Australia were having their own tea party with a Prime Minister, that the Treasurer was praying with them, and when they organised National Days of Prayers, even Opposition Leaders and Governor-Generals blessed them!