Sandford was early attracted to premillennialism, the Higher Life movement, the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit, and divine healing; and in the 1890s, he created a communal society in coastal Maine, SHILOH, whose members "lived on faith" rather than being gainfully employed. Considered by former members and many neighbors to be a crank and an autocrat who insisted on unquestioning loyalty, Sandford—who had identified himself with the biblical Elijah and David—was convicted of manslaughter in 1911 and served seven years in a federal penitentiary.
BUT, wonder of wonders...
Out of Sandford's Shiloh- came Charles Parham,
and out of his ministry came
William Seymour, of the the AZUSA STREET REVIVAL.
Charles Parnham, Seymour's former pastor and teacher- opposed the Azusa revival, wanting to lead it himself.
By October 1906, Charles Parham was invited to speak for a series of meetings at Azusa Street, but was quickly un-invited. Several reasons can be given for Azusa Street's disassociation from him. Firstly, Parham had personality conflicts with Seymour and wanted to be the chief authority figure of the movement that was taking place, but the presiding leaders of the Apostolic Faith Mission were slow to make any changes to their methods or leadership. Secondly, rumors were surfacing that Parham had been committing sodomy ("an unnatural offense") with young males.[2
So two points I believe the Lord is showing me:
When there is revival and true preaching of the Word- Deception springs up at the same time.
Many of these have come through supernatural signs and visions. (Joseph Smith- Ellen G. White)
Revival/preaching of the Word DECEPTION/CULTS
Second Great Awakening birth of Mormonism through a supernatural sign
Charles Finney 1830's- 1840's same time period!
revivals in upstate NY
early church Gnosticism
AND- Even though Sandford fell into other non Gospel teachings, and Parnham fell away (at least for a while), the outpouring of the Holy Spirit did come, and thousands of lives were changed.
Jesus wins! Hallelujah!
And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.( Mt 16: 18)
I will say it again...the Word says...THE GATE OF HELL SHALL NOT PREVAIL OVER IT. HALLELUJAH!!!
