Jim Bakker

[Will Bum]

My prof. is allowing me to write a paper on Jim Bakker, the ever-so-infamous hoax of a TV evengelist. Could I have some insights into his theology, as well as the date of his conviction in 1988? I have searched Microfilm, but I cant find the exact date. Thanks!!!

[Captain Ochre]

Today @ 06:22 AM post located here (http://www.theologyweb.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&postid=296650#post296650)
Will Bum:

My prof. is allowing me to write a paper on Jim Bakker, the ever-so-infamous hoax of a TV evengelist. Could I have some insights into his theology, as well as the date of his conviction in 1988? I have searched Microfilm, but I cant find the exact date. Thanks!!!

The first link below has a timeline that includes conviction dates (edit to add: Warning the first link is a vitriolic attack and includes foul language, including f-bombs).
The latter includes the title of the book that Bakker wrote after his time in prison (in the midst of an interview). Perhaps that book would itself assist you in composing your report.


http://www.rotten.com/library/bio/religion/televangelists/jim-bakker/
http://www.pbi.ab.ca/servant/archive/1997win/BAKKER_INTERVIEW.HTM

[Will Bum]

I get the impression from the second article that he did indeed change somewhat. In fact, dramatically. Or is he pulling the wool over his eyes and ours? Thank you, both articles will be put to use.

[TedO]

From what I've seen of Jimbo post jail - he is not the same con-man he was before. There is clearly fruit of repentance and good works in his life. I've never heard him ask for money either.

[Twinsfan1]

I read his book a number of years ago and was very impressed. The book is entitled, "I Was Wrong." That kind of says it.

He was on Larry King a couple years ago, with Tammy Faye, and Jim was very humble, and grateful for the opportunity to be in ministry again. This time it was rather anonymously in an inner-city church somewhere.

I have also heard lately that he would like to be on TV again, but cannot vouch for that. My guess is that if he is back on TV, it will be as a changed man.

[Dbtng.Thomas]

In the Old Testament false prophets were stoned to death. If Jim really believes the Bible as he says he does, why doesnt' he drop a boulder on his head?

If he had committed pedophilia would we invite him back into the schoolyard? But he committed something much worse. To lie and cheat in the name of God and take money from the sheep has got to be more vile than fondling a child.

Anyone listening to this man or watching him on TV deserve exactly what they get. Lies.

[TedO]

Hey D.T.

I'm with you to a large degree. What I said above was in no way an endorsement that he should be put into a role of authority again. I'm not saying categorically that it couldn't happen - but damaged trust is very hard to restore.

Now, I also believe in a redeeming savior - and he can even redeem those who are vile and deceiving, even those who claimed to be from God and were not.

As far as christian leaders who fall - we should always be quick to forgive, but very reticent to reinstate.

[Twinsfan1]

Obviously one should be careful about putting someone back in such a position.

But I think Jim Bakker has demonstrated over a few years now that he learned his lesson! He accepted the "punishment" from not only the civil government (prison), and submitted to his denomination's sanctions as well.

On the other hand, I can name another televangelist named Jimmy that has totally shoved aside any kind of accountability, and refuses to submit to any authority that might cause him to examine his heart in light of Scripture.

My respect for the latter is down the toilet. My respect for the former is growing all the more as I see what he is doing in relative obscurity (admittedly, I have not seen much lately as to his current activities).

Could it be that he has been in the process of being restored by others who have authority over him? If so, I would have no problem with him being back in ministry, though probably not in the same capacity.

[Twinsfan1]

BTW, TedO, I agree with you very much. Caution is a good thing. I hope I didn't give the impression that I disagreed with you!

Just trying to emphasize the redemptive stuff.