Outrage has been ignited by the head of an evangelical Christian group, who labeled Oprah Winfrey as ‘the Antichrist’.
Mike Bickle, aged 55 and the leader of the International House of Prayer (IHOP), made this provocative claim in a film released earlier this week by People for the American Way Right Wing Watch and broadcast on God TV.
In his warning to followers, he referred to the 57-year-old celebrity as a ‘forerunner to the Harlot movement’ and described her as ‘utterly deceived.’
He stated, ‘One of the key pastors, acting as a forerunner to the Harlot movement, is Oprah. It’s not yet the Harlot movement, but she is.
‘She is charming, she is kind, she is reasonable, yet she is completely deceived, entirely deceived.
‘A classy, cool, and charming woman, but she harbors a spirit of deception and stands as one of the clear pastors, forerunners to the Harlot movement.’
In the film, while defining this alleged ‘Harlot Babylon’, he warned viewers that it describes a movement that performs good deeds ‘for all the wrong reasons.’
He elaborated, ‘The Harlot Babylon is preparing nations for the reception of the Antichrist.
‘This Harlot Babylon will advocate for affirmation, toleration, and no absolutes, presenting a counterfeit justice movement. They will aid the poor, undertake humanitarian projects, and inspire compassion, but all for misguided reasons.
Though they may be sincerely motivated, beloved, this sincerity will not diminish the severity of their deception. Being sincere does not make their misleading actions any less harmful.’
Many quickly defended Ms. Winfrey, ridiculing Mr. Bickle’s remarks.
A post on Veracity Stew commented, ‘Do these individuals realize the absolute rubbish spewing from their mouths and how absurd it sounds? Yes! Tolerance, no absolutes, justice movements, helping the poor, humanitarian efforts… all attributed to Satan!
‘This is the unavoidable outcome of the mix between religious fundamentalists and the wealthy elite who are backing them, essentially exploiting these poor, misguided fools.’
Mr. Bickle, who established IHOP in Kansas City 12 years prior with a mere 20 members, now reportedly boasts tens of thousands of followers.
This is not the first instance of his comments creating a stir. During an interview last week, he forecasted that ‘the Second Coming will likely occur within the lifetimes of those currently living.’
Additionally, he faced criticism recently for endorsing Texas Governor Rick Perry in organizing a prayer day scheduled for next month, which is anticipated to draw attendees opposed to abortion and gay rights.
by Lorelle Heath
