Today’s pulpits are often occupied by one of three types of men: the weak, the bullies, or those who genuinely seek to lead as Christ did. Weak men are preachers who work hard to avoid offending anyone, prioritizing approval over truth. Bullies, on the other hand, push their own agendas, discarding anyone in the congregation who does not align with their vision. Then there are those who strive to lead like Christ—serving others and speaking the truth in love, regardless of the cost. Unfortunately, the ones seeking to be Christlike often find themselves caught in the crossfire, suffering the consequences of both the weak and the domineering preachers.

For example, people coming from a church led by weak preachers—those who avoided speaking hard truths—often crave strong, truth-centered preaching. However, they may struggle with expositional preaching, wondering why the church systematically goes through a book of the Bible rather than focusing on culturally relevant topics. On the other hand, those who come from churches led by domineering, authoritarian pastors tend to have an exaggerated view of pastoral leadership. They may put the pastor on a pedestal, only to become disillusioned when they see the natural flaws of a Christlike leader—one who isn’t trying to hide his weaknesses. In some cases, they may even be confused by the pastor’s transparency and vulnerability, mistaking his humility for weakness and losing the respect and honor they once held.

Lately, I’ve noticed a growing trend of self-proclaimed apostles and prophets promoting healing and deliverance services online. Their flyers often feature their own photos alongside a lineup of artists, promising a powerful move of God and urging people to come expecting a miracle. Unfortunately, this is especially common in inner-city churches. From my experience, these events often serve as little more than a means to draw large crowds for financial gain and to expand what they call a ministry—though it functions more like a franchise. Many of these leaders are demanding and manipulative, using their influence to bully their own people in order to elevate their platform. They resist correction, operate without accountability, and ultimately exploit the very people they claim to serve, treating ministry as a business rather than a calling.

Spiritual abuse is widespread in these circles. These self-appointed leaders use their positions to manipulate, dominate, and intimidate those under their authority. They elevate themselves, prioritizing power and control while remaining blind—or indifferent—to the harm they cause.

So how can we recognize and avoid such individuals? And how can we effectively warn others about them?

First, mark them.

Romans 16:17-18.

I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.

Other translations use the word “mark” instead of “watch out”, emphasizing the act of identifying and noting something carefully. A summary from BDAG (a Greek lexicon) provides deeper insight into the meaning of “watch out”, highlighting the importance of being observant, discerning, and intentional in recognizing what is good or dangerous.

The Greek word σκοπέω (skopeō) means to carefully observe, pay attention to, or be on guard. In the New Testament, it emphasizes watchfulness and discernment, urging believers to be intentional in their actions. It calls for following godly examples, avoiding harmful influences, and examining oneself. Whether it’s learning from those who live righteously, staying away from divisive individuals, or being mindful of one’s own spiritual condition, σκοπέω highlights the importance of an active, thoughtful, and discerning approach to faith and life.

Paul’s instruction to the church in Rome is to be active and discerning in identifying those who cause divisions and create obstacles that go against the true doctrine they had been taught. He warns them to mark and avoid such individuals, as they serve their own desires rather than Christ. Through smooth talk and flattery, they deceive those who are unsuspecting and easily influenced.

Marking such individuals is possible if we cling to the Scriptures. They can be wolves in sheep’s clothing, however Jesus did say in Matthew 7:15–16,

Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?

Jesus said, “You will recognize them by their fruits.” One of the clearest signs of false prophets and wolves in sheep’s clothing is a ministry that lacks biblical exposition. A man who refuses accountability will not be committed to Sola Scriptura (Scripture alone as the authority). This is often seen in so-called revival services where the focus is not on faithfully preaching God’s Word but on emotional experiences, manifestations, and self-promotion instead. Be active and discerning in identifying those who cause divisions and create obstacles that go against the true doctrine that comes from the Word of God.

Second, follow the money.

2 Peter 2: 1- 3

But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed. And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep.

In their greed they will exploit you with false words. This is the tactic but is also the way to expose them. Usually, it is evident when the so called preacher is calling for people to give a certain amount of money. They will utilize biblical terminology and smooth talk to guilt people into giving. They will rip passages out of context 

The Greek word for “exploit” ἐμπορεύομαι (emporeuomai) means buying, selling, or trading, usually in a business context. In the New Testament, it often has a negative meaning, especially when referring to those who exploit others for personal gain. In James 4:13, it describes ordinary business dealings, but in 2 Peter 2:3, it warns about false teachers who deceive and take advantage of people. This word highlights how some misuse their authority, treating people as commodities rather than valuing them with integrity (Summary from BDAG).

The constant asking for money is a clear warning sign. These gatherings are not truly about advancing the gospel but about promoting the individual—someone who has built a personal brand that requires funding to sustain. Such leaders often resort to manipulation and pressure to serve their own interests and gain worldly success. Another red flag is their assumption that God will always heal or deliver people on demand at their services. This mindset reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of God’s sovereignty, as they presume upon Him things He has not promised. God moves according to His will, not human expectation, and if these leaders truly understood His sovereignty, they would not claim control over things that only He can do.

These are just a few ways to recognize those who falsely claim to speak for the Lord. Unfortunately, this deception continues, and many people still fall for it. As these false teachers wreak havoc on churches in my community, I pray that God would expose and silence them, while also calling His true sheep out from among them. The real reason these individuals thrive is not just their own self-indulgence, but as Paul warned Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:3,

For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions.

Ultimately, the people themselves are responsible. True revival begins with repentance, not with a guest speaker or a tent meeting. Inner-city churches that host these events should not chase after emotional experiences but instead seek the Lord through His already revealed Word. By turning to Scripture and genuine prayer, they will find what they truly need—a real encounter with the living God, who calls His people to holiness and worship.