Published on March 5, 2024, 12:55 am

In the realm of charismatic theology, a prevalent heresy stands out. Referred to as the little-god theology, it alleges that we humans bear within us the potential to evolve into God or become divine beings like Him. Disconcertingly, this belief is not confined to charismatic circles – it underpins foundational teachings of Mormonism and promises a future where believers partake in God’s divinity and become gods themselves.
 
At the center of this criticized teaching, “Apostle” Mary Banks delivered an ostensibly twisted perspective during the Caribbean Conference. Her claim: “When we were born of God, we became gods.” This radical statement confronts centuries of Christian doctrine and explicit scriptures and raises eyebrows in disapproval.
 
For clarity, let us evaluate her assertions in light of scriptural truths. First, Banks applied Isaiah 9:6 – praising Jesus Christ – as a gateway for human beings towards divine ascendency. Such manipulation distorts its explicit Messianic focus since it does not champion humanity’s division but the advent of Christ or the Everlasting Father. The narrative across biblical books maintains an undeniable differentiation between Creator and creation – fundamental to our faith. Likewise, tying unity with God on par with Godhead’s unity by simplifying mathematical logic is utterly absurd.
 
Banks’ contention echoes Genesis 3:5’s old deception: “You will be like God.” Indeed, it brings about human downfall by perpetuating what could be deemed an ancient lie: humans taking over God’s place while seemingly uplifting humanity’s spiritual status.
 
Compare these troubling pronouncements with Apostle Paul’s principles revealed in Romans 8:29 (reinforcing human character development rather than their deification) and 1 Corinthians 8:6 (underscoring one true God from whom everything emanates). Unlike Banks advocating humans elevating towards divinity, Paul nurtures relationships with the almighty via Jesus Christ.
 
Where Banks ambiguously navigates between Creator and creation, the scripture carves out a clear distinction. Union with Christ – represented in John 17:21-23 – does not signify a transformation in our human nature but symbolizes intimacy and shared goals. Suggesting otherwise is tantamount to distorting the gospel that promotes reconciliation with God through Christ’s sacrificial atonement rather than humanity’s deification.
 
Banks’ proud declaration, “Oh, the devil won’t me to say that,” needs a countersign – “Oh, yes he does.” Similar to the deceptive maneuvres employed by the serpent in Eve’s Garden of Eden story causing mankind’s catastrophic downfall, such reinventions of old lies among charismatic circles lead not closer to God but astray from Him.
 
Amid such controversial teachings demanding discernment than ever before, we call upon Christian worldviews underpinned by biblical truths to stand resistant against growing false narratives threatening faith foundations. Like vigilant guardians armed with God’s full armor, we must hold ground against misguided influences like Banks and stay faithful to liberating truths.
 
This analysis illustrates real news developments in religious discourse and encourages serious contemplation about trusted news sources in framing one’s faith journey.