Calvary Community Church Phoenix Exposed

Pastor Mark Martin EXPOSED / False Doctrine at Calvary Community Church Phoenix

2012-10-18T10:29:00.019-05:00

Dear Brother Tafari,

I recently visited the Calvary Chapel here in Phoenix. A really talented guitar player warmed up the crowd for the comedian, who had some very funny jokes, like, "There is no law".

A lot of people seem to like this "anything goes" theology, but is it biblical?

Cecelia

BROTHER TAFARI RESPONDS

Dear Cecelia,

Christian churches have long been troubled by "certain men" who "teach false doctrines.

"stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer"
(1 Timothy 1:3 NIV, Holy Bible)

Anyone not in a cult can see that there are plenty of laws out there these days.

However, cult leaders like Pastor Mark Martin claim: "Thus the Old Covenant, the Ten Commandments, had a definite beginning and a definite end." (J. Mark Martin, The Gospel and The Covenants, exAdventist Outreach,
http://exadventist.com/
Home/Covenants/tabid/54/
Default.aspx

CULT LEADER MARTIN WRONG ON DEFINITION OF THE OLD COVENANT

"Old Covenant" is defined as "(initial capital letter) the Old Testament." (Old Covenant, Dictionary.com, http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/old+covenant)

This definition is consistent with standard scholarly usage:

"The Holy Scriptures of the Christian church contain two Testaments, but they comprise one Bible. The Old Testament, or Old Covenant, remains an essential part of the Christian Bible because the two covenants form one record of God's progressive and redemptive revelation to humankind." (Andrew E. Hill, John H. Walton, A survey of the Old Testament, 2nd ed., Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2000, p 555)

TOP OLD TESTAMENT AUTHORITIES

"Andrew E. Hill (PhD, University of Michigan) is professor of Old Testament studies at Wheaton College in Illinois." http://www.zondervan.com/Cultures/en-US/Authors/Author.htm?ContributorID=HillA "John H. Walton (PhD, Hebrew Union College) is professor of Old Testament at Wheaton College Graduate School." http://www.zondervan.com/Cultures/en-US/Authors/Author.htm?ContributorID=WaltonJ

Cult leader J. Mark Martin's contention that the "Old Covenant" is identical with the "Ten Commandments" is wrong.

WHY HE HAS ISSUES WITH THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

The Ten Commandments forbid stealing. While plagiarism is a gray area, some people consider it to be stealing. Cult pastor Mark Martin engages in plagiarism according to University of Arizona standards.

SO IS PLAGIARISM ALLOWED UNDER THE NEW COVENANT?

What happens on the coming of the New Covenant? Are the Ten Commandments done away with then?

GOD'S LAWS STILL EXIST IN THE NEW COVENANT PERIOD

"For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:" (Hebrews 8:10, Holy Bible)(see also Jeremiah 31:33)

FALSE PROPHET ACTIVITY

Pastor Mark teaches his easy-listening doctrines of error to a large and growing congregation.

The prophets prophesy lies, the priests rule by their own authority, and my people love it this way. But what will you do in the end? (Jeremiah 5:31 NIV, Holy Bible)

One definition of prophet is "The chief spokesperson of a movement or cause." http://www.answers.com/topic/prophet J. Mark Martin is senior pastor (chief spokesperson) of the Calvary Chapel cult in Phoenix -- otherwise know as Calvary Community Church Phoenix. http://www.exadventist.com/Home/Mark/tabid/62/Default.aspx Noting that a "cult" is "A system or community of religious worship and ritual." http://www.answers.com/topic/cult

CULT MEMBERS EXCLUDED FROM THE KINGDOM - THEY LOVED THE LIES

But there will be an end.

14 Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.

15 For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie. (Revelation 22, Holy Bible)

And this is the end. The gates of the holy city will be thrown open to the Lord's faithful children. To those who "have right to the tree of life". And which people might these be?

Oh, "they that do his commandments". (per Revelation 22:14, Holy Bible)

Commandments? You know -- the commandments Pastor Mark Martin tells you have been done away with.

RELATED READING:

Cult Leader's Insatiable Appetite for Money

Pastor Mark's Journey

Pastor Mark Discards the Gospel of Jesus Christ

Fabrication

Calvary Chapel Mark Martin / A New Way to Worship

2011-09-12T05:44:00.048-05:00

Dear Brother Tafari,

What's not to like about Pastor Mark?

He has such funny stories, and dresses in such a hip manner.

I never thought any brother could show such pride. And to see that in a minister of the gospel!

Bond

BROTHER TAFARI RESPONDS

Dear Bond,

Pastor Mark could write the book on casual chic.

KNOWS WHERE TO GET HIS STYLES

"I have a friend that shops exclusively at second hand, resale or vintage shops. His favorite is the Salvation Army, which he dubbed Salvation Armani." (Ramon Johnson, Gay Fashion on a Budget - Hot Gay Clothes for Cold Money, http://gaylife.about.com/od/fashion/a/gayfashion.htm)

A PROUD BROTHER WHO MAKES NO SECRET OF IT

After a multi-year search for his identity, Pastor Mark discovered "I was proud". (Pastor Mark Martin, reference)

And took his education at a school where pride is left, right, and center: "Pastor Mark received a B.A. in theology from Pacific Union College in Angwin, California". http://exadventist.com/Home/Mark/tabid/62/Default.aspx

Dr. Alexander Carpenter is on the faculty at Pacific Union College. "A former fellow and then consultant for the Center for American Progress, he is the editor of the blog for Spectrum" http://www.puc.edu/academics/departments/visual-arts/faculty/visual-arts/acarpenter,

GAY THEOLOGY

which has proclaimed a GAY THEOLOGY WITHOUT APOLOGY.
http://spectrummagazine.org/blog/2007/12/27/gay-theology-without-apology

PRIDE PERMEATS THE CAMPUS

Even though Pastor Mark graduated some years ago, he still has fond memories of those days when "Our PUC paraphernalia and pride brought us together." (Taylor Khoe-Mupas, Showing Pioneer Pride...at La Sierra, The Campus Chronicle, 21 Jan 2011, p B2)

Well, how closely?

"Grainger Hall is not a community that revolves around regular shower parties". "I'm not saying it hasn't been done in the past, but we appreciate privacy and comfortable living as much as the next dorm -- once initiation's over."

AND PASTOR MARK HAS BROUGHT THE SAME VALUES TO CALVARY PHOENIX

"Grainger Hall is a dorm that thrives on community, hospitality, and spirituality. What's not to love? Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm late for a shower party." (Aren Rennacker, Grainger Hall: The MOGvious Choice, The Campus Chronicle, 29 Oct 2010, p C1)

Pastor Mark had every choice in the world to live elsewhere than Grainger Hall.

BUT NO, HE WANTED TO JOIN THE BROTHERHOOD FOR THAT SPECIAL PUC LIFESTYLE

"And this building creates a brotherhood between everyone within its walls. Whether it's through sports, late night Halo parties, or a mutual appreciation of ceramics, anyone can find a friend over here." (Jordan Thornburgh, Newton Hall: The NEWTONvious Choice..., The Campus Chronicle, 29 Oct 2010, p C1)

Like Pastor Mark did.

He has less hair now than then, but still has the same winning smile!

RELATED READING:

Pastor Mark Martin's Search for his Identity - "Well, what am I?"

Pastor Mark's Theology of Grace Greases the Skids

Calvary Chapel Phoenix violates Arizona Consumer Fraud Act (ACFA) / When will Calvary Church get Shut Down?

2010-10-17T05:47:00.029-05:00

Dear Brother Tafari,

Way to say it!

Mark Martin and his Calvary Cult have been milking the public in Phoenix long enough. Their formula is simple -- they have some peppy Christian rock music, topped off with some feel-good, stand-up comedy.

And then charge those people "what the market will bear" -- preferably 10% of income for this light entertainment.

Keith and Ted

BROTHER TAFARI RESPONDS

Dear Friends,

Serious Christians have a major problem with the work of this false shepherd, but apparently the authorities can't step in to shut down this scam.

THERE IS SOME CONSUMER PROTECTION LAW OUT THERE

"The Arizona Consumer Fraud Act (ACFA) was broadly drawn up to "eliminate unlawful practices in

SELLING FALSE DOCTRINE

merchant-consumer transaction"". (August Horvath, John Villafranco, Stephen Calkins,
Consumer protection law developments,
American Bar Association, 2009, p 392) Pastor Mark is selling cheap entertainment and easy laughs. And he delivers.

But then you might be thinking, isn't it illegal for a merchant to tell lies to a consumer?

"The ACFA makes it unlawful for any person

INCLUDING CULT LEADER MARK MARTIN

to act, use, or employ "any deception, deceptive act or practice, fraud, false pretense, false promise, misrepresentation, or concealment, suppression or omission of any material fact with intent that others rely upon such concealment, suppression or omission, in connection with the sale or advertisement of any merchandise whether or not any person has in fact been misled, deceived or damaged. "Merchandise" under the Act includes "any objects, wares, goods, commodities, intangibles, real estate, or services."" (August Horvath, John Villafranco, Stephen Calkins, Consumer protection law developments, American Bar Association, 2009, p 392)

TYPICAL MARK MARTIN DECEPTION

Cult leader Martin contends:

"It is Jesus' good works that saves us! His doing, His dying, His rising again!

Note that we are not saved by what Christ is doing in us. We are saved only and wholly by what Christ did for us at the cross!" (Cult Leader J. Mark Martin, Preview of "Grace Today", Pastor Mark's Blog, 13 Sep 2009)

THE REAL GOSPEL

John the Baptist taught that remission of sins was available upon repentance:

John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. Mark 1:4

A WICKED FALSE PROPHET

Cult leader Martin claims that those sins were remitted at the cross, so now there is no need for repentance. (per Cult Leader J. Mark Martin, Preview of "Grace Today", Pastor Mark's Blog, 13 Sep 2009)

Needless to say, this evil doctrine is very popular in the Phoenix underworld.

Let's say that there's a pusher, busy ruining the lives of hundreds of addicts. Pastor Martin would say, "Hey, you've already been saved. Here's a double serving of grace, with peppy music on the side. And, by the way, how about another $20,000 contribution?"

Jesus taught a different doctrine. One day he was in Capernaum -- "in the house". A sick man with palsy was lowered down through the roof for healing. Jesus forgave his sins (Mark 2:5). And told him to get up and walk. (Mark 2:11)

CALVARY CULT: NO NEED FOR REPENTANCE / LICENSE TO SIN

Cultic false prophet Martin claims: "We are saved only and wholly by what Christ did for us at the cross!" (Cult Leader J. Mark Martin, Preview of "Grace Today", Pastor Mark's Blog, 13 Sep 2009)

The man with palsy received salvation from sin and sickness because of faith and repentance. His salvation had absolutely nothing to do with the cross, as Jesus hadn't even been crucified at that point in time.

THE HOME OF THE REDEEMED

The Book of Revelation explains how the drama of the ages will end:

CITY OF LIGHT

²³And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.

²⁴And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it.

²⁷And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life. Revelation 21

Cultic pastor Mark Martin claims people don't need to do anything to be saved. The Bible requires repentance and faith.

Gangsters and thieves just love Pastor Mark's sermons, but in the big day they'll find out Mark Martin's cultic teachings weren't enough to save them.

Mark Martin Calvary Chapel Cult Rejects the Gospel of Jesus Christ / A special tour of the holy land

2010-10-16T04:57:00.044-05:00

Pastor Martin preaches a popular gospel: "We believe salvation from sin, death, and hell is by God's grace.

UNBIBLICAL DOCTRINE - PASTOR MARK SAYS REPENTANCE UNNECESSARY

It must be received by faith apart from any human performance or merit." (Pastor Mark Martin, What We Believe, http://calvaryphx.com/about/what-we-believe/)

WHAT JESUS SAID

45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and

REPENTANCE NECESSARY FOR FORGIVENESS

repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. Luke 24 NIV

Needless to say, Pastor Mark's gospel is much easier to live with. How else did he get that flock of 12,000? http://calvaryphx.com/about/

But what happens to the cult members?

Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into a pit? The student is not above the teacher, but

12 000 CULTIC APOSTLES

everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher. Luke 6:39, 40 NIV

BUT DON'T HIS WORDS COUNT FOR ANYTHING

But what about the Calvary Community Church Israel Tour 23 Feb - 5 Mar 2012? Doesn't it count for anything that Pastor Mark at least talks about Christian things?

The mission of Jesus has a specific impact:

Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. Luke 2:34 NIV

When Pastor Mark shows up in the Holy Land, his inner thoughts will be revealed.

"In keeping with our commitment to communicate practical, biblical truth, we invite you to travel with us to Israel. Time and again we’ll find ourselves saying, “Now I understand what He meant when He said . . .". (Pastor Mark Martin, Join this Unforgettable Christian Tour to Israel with Pastor Mark Martin and Calvary Community Church, http://www.inspirationcruises.com/ccp)

REAL PROPHETS - NOTHING TO DO WITH LUXURY

24 After John’s messengers left, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 25 If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear expensive clothes and indulge in luxury are in palaces. 26 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 27 This is the one about whom it is written:

“‘I will send my messenger ahead of you,
who will prepare your way before you.’ Luke 7 NIV

Well, how does Pastor Mark travel?

"We will be staying in some of Israel’s finest hotels and traveling throughout the land on luxury coaches." (Pastor Mark Martin, Join this Unforgettable Christian Tour to Israel with Pastor Mark Martin and Calvary Community Church, http://www.inspirationcruises.com/ccp)

And how did Jesus make his arrangements when touring the same area?

57 As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.”

58 Jesus replied, “Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” Luke 9 NIV

Ok, Pastor Mark has a totally different M.O. than Jesus and John the Baptist. Can't he still be a disciple?

Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. Luke 9:23 NIV

And Pastor Mark lives a life of self-denial?

PASTOR LIVES IN THE LAP OF LUXURY

"We will be staying in some of Israel’s finest hotels and traveling throughout the land on luxury coaches." (Pastor Mark Martin, Join this Unforgettable Christian Tour to Israel with Pastor Mark Martin and Calvary Community Church, http://www.inspirationcruises.com/ccp)

Well, he's not a disciple of Christ, but maybe he can at least call himself a Christian?

He replied, “My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s word and put it into practice.” Luke 8:21 NIV

Pastor Mark explains that large portions of the Bible have been stricken, and no longer have any application.

Well, he's obviously not a disciple or even a Christian, but maybe he can be neutral?

“Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. Luke 11:23 NIV

JESUS HAS A SPECIAL WARNING FOR ADHERENTS OF THIS CULT

Ok, so Pastor Mark works against Christ, according to the Word of God. But isn't it alright for him to make a stack of money off this business?

Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed Luke 12:15 NIV

AND EVEN A MESSAGE FOR THE CULT LEADER

39 Then the Lord said to him, “Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. Luke 11 NIV

BUT ISN'T PASTOR MARK AN EXPERT ON THE LAW?

Pastor Mark would like to hold forth on the law as an expert. http://exadventist.com/Home/Covenants/tabid/54/Default.aspx

46 Jesus replied, “And you experts in the law, woe to you, because you load people down with burdens they can hardly carry, and you yourselves will not lift one finger to help them. Luke 11 NIV

LOADING DOWN OTHERS WITH HEAVY BURDENS

"Luggage will be automatically transferred from coach to hotel room and back to coach by the tour company. We are taking as much work out of this tour as possible". (Pastor Mark Martin, Join this Unforgettable Christian Tour to Israel with Pastor Mark Martin and Calvary Community Church, http://www.inspirationcruises.com/ccp)

“Woe to you experts in the law, because you have taken away the key to knowledge. Luke 11:52 NIV

BY TEACHING FALSE DOCTRINES

"I will be teaching the Word of God at several key sites such as the Garden Tomb, the Mount of Olives and the Sea of Galilee." (Pastor Mark Martin, Join this Unforgettable Christian Tour to Israel with Pastor Mark Martin and Calvary Community Church, http://www.inspirationcruises.com/ccp)

Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. Luke 12:1 NIV

THESE HYPOCRITES ARE DANGEROUS

You yourselves have not entered, and you have hindered those who were entering.” Luke 11:52 NIV

SO WHAT SHOULD FALSE PROPHET MARTIN AND HIS DECEIVED CULT MEMBERS DO?

1 Now there were some present at that time who told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. 2 Jesus answered, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? 3 I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. Luke 13 NIV

RELATED READING:

Special Friends

Wrong on the Covenants

Shower Parties

Historical Error

Calvary Chapel & Gay Marriage / Strong Brotherly Love at Calvary Community Church Phoenix / Parishioners sing the praises of Pastor J. Mark Martin

2010-08-19T05:15:00.032-05:00

Dear Brother Tafari,

We love Pastor Mark.

It started out as love for one another. As we spent time together, we realized it was time to get the sanction of the church for our relationship, and started looking around Phoenix for a place of worship where we could be married, loved, and accepted.

At some of the more conservative denominations, we got dirty looks, and the members wouldn't even shake hands.

But then we came to Calvary, and discovered that Pastor Mark was also proud!!

We found our church home, and highly recommend Calvary Phoenix to all proud brothers.

Jeffrey & Mark

BROTHER TAFARI RESPONDS

Dear Calvary Chapel Brothers,

If you were looking for loving acceptance and affirmation of your lifestyle choices, you made the right decision.

A DIVERSE CONGREGATION

Calvary has an open-door policy: "It was like a bunch of blasphemers and sinners here today". (Mark Martin, The Line in the Sand: The Gospel and Adventism (1 of 8), http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVegdtrTDjI, minute 1)

CULT LEADER'S JOURNEY

Pastor Mark grew up in a conservative church: "I kept the rules, and I kept the law". (Mark Martin, The Line in the Sand: The Gospel and Adventism (1 of 8), http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVegdtrTDjI, minute 3) Laws like "Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable." (Leviticus 18:22 NIV, Holy Bible)

But as Pastor grew up, he started questioning: "I began to wonder, well, what am I?" (Mark Martin, The Line in the Sand: The Gospel and Adventism (1 of 8), http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVegdtrTDjI, minute 5)

PASTOR MARK SEEKS HIS IDENTITY IN CALIFORNIA

Mark left his home in Oregon to attend Pacific Union College. http://www.exadventist.com/Home/Mark/tabid/62/Default.aspx "I wanted truth". (Mark Martin, The Line in the Sand: The Gospel and Adventism (1 of 8), http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVegdtrTDjI, minute 3) And this was just the place for Pastor Mark to find that truth: Who was he? Really.

PUC is located in the gay-friendly Sonoma wine country. http://gaytravel.about.com/od/sonomacountygaytravel/p/Sonona_Wine.htm The college has all the advantages of country-living, but is located just 65 miles away from the Berkeley Gay Village. Mark got to know some of the brothers, and "We were hungry". (Mark Martin, The Line in the Sand: The Gospel and Adventism (1 of 8), http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVegdtrTDjI, minute 4)

SUCCESS: PASTOR MARK FOUND HIS ANSWER -- AND LOVE

This hunger brought Pastor to the realization: "I was proud". (Mark Martin, The Line in the Sand: The Gospel and Adventism (1 of 8), http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVegdtrTDjI, minute 4) And in the joyful days of his youth, this pride found a very special expression in liberal California: "I had a sweet time in Sebastapol, California while I was in college, with a man". (Mark Martin, The Line in the Sand: The Gospel and Adventism (1 of 8), http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVegdtrTDjI, minute 7)

That's the town where "Marching bands, dachshunds in costume, flower covered floats, equestrian units and a whole lot of pride goes marching down Main Street at 10 a.m. when the Sebastopol Apple Blossom Parade launches at Analy High School." http://www.seecalifornia.com/festivals/sebastopol-apple-blossom-festival.html

A SPECIAL WITNESS

Or, as Pastor Mark puts it, "witnessing through my lifestyle". (Mark Martin, The Line in the Sand: The Gospel and Adventism (1 of 8), http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVegdtrTDjI, minute 6)

But there were conflicts in his soul. What about those laws in the Bible? Had he sinned against God? "It nearly brought me to tears". (Mark Martin, The Line in the Sand: The Gospel and Adventism (1 of 8), http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVegdtrTDjI, minute 1)

Mark sought to deal with these feelings by attending a church where love was the central theme: "I saw so much love in these churches".

Well, how much love?

"OVER THE PEW" LOVE

"I couldn't get over how the people loved each other. They were jumping over the pews to love on each other." (Mark Martin, The Line in the Sand: The Gospel and Adventism (1 of 8), http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVegdtrTDjI, minutes 8-9)

And when these brothers become so filled with love and joy, they get really thirsty: "we're so dry". (Mark Martin, The Line in the Sand: The Gospel and Adventism (1 of 8), http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVegdtrTDjI, minute 2)

Pastor Mark is a student of scripture, and this Bible verse goes over so well on such occasions:

"And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,". Deuteronomy 14:26

And that's why Calvary Chapel Phoenix is so popular with people who experience lust, be it for beers, wines, "brotherly love" over a church pew, or liquors -- "whatsoever thy soul desireth".

Calvary Chapel Cult: COME OUT OF BABYLON (Phoenix Branch)

2010-08-11T03:29:00.020-05:00

Dear Brother Tafari,

I think I can speak on behalf of the Christian Community here in Phoenix when I thank you for your ministry of truth.

What I love about your writing is the gentle, loving way in which you expose the false doctrines of these wolves in sheep's clothing.

Keep up the good work,

Mark

BROTHER TAFARI RESPONDS

Dear Brother in Christ,

"J. Mark Martin is the Senior Pastor of Calvary Community Church". http://calvaryphx.com/aboutus/CalvaryStaff/PastorMarkMartin/tabid/289/Default.aspx This church is "A Calvary Chapel". http://calvaryphx.com/Default.aspx?alias=calvaryphx.com/aboutus

Cult: "A religion or religious sect generally considered to be extremist or false". http://www.thefreedictionary.com/cult

CALVARY PHOENIX FALSEHOOD

"You'll find us to be a friendly, Jesus-loving gathering of believers." (Pastor Mark Martin, http://calvaryphx.com/)

BUT JESUS SETS THE STANDARD

If ye love me, keep my commandments. John 14:15 And what might a "commandment" be? We check the dictionary, and find that in matters of the Bible this means: "Bible. One of the Ten Commandments." http://www.answers.com/topic/commandment

CALVARY PHOENIX PRACTICE - TEN COMMANDMENTS NO LONGER APPLY

"Thus the Old Covenant, the Ten Commandments, had a definite beginning and a definite end."
(J. Mark Martin, The Gospel and the Covenants, http://exadventist.com/Home/Covenants/tabid/54/Default.aspx)

CALVARY PHOENIX CULT LEADER - TEN COMMANDMENTS REPEALED WHEN JESUS CAME TO EARTH

And when might the Ten Commandments have been repealed? Let's check in with cult leader J. Mark Martin: "Thus the Old Covenant, the Ten Commandments, had a definite beginning and a definite end. Gal. 3:19 clearly states, "The law was added UNTIL the seed should come."" (J. Mark Martin, The Gospel and the Covenants, http://exadventist.com/Home/Covenants/tabid/54/Default.aspx)

BUT JESUS DISAGREES WITH THE CALVARY CHAPEL CULT LEADER

So when Jesus came, the Ten Commandments dropped off the horizon? Not according to Jesus: "If ye love me, keep my commandments." John 14:15 Commandment: "Bible. One of the Ten Commandments." http://www.answers.com/topic/commandment

So how can this be? Oh, Cult Pastor Mark Martin is wrong about the identity of the Old Covenant. He claims its the same thing as the Ten Commandments. And his totally false, cultic claim is supported by relevant citations or authorities? Of course not!!

THE OLD COVENANT IS THE OLD TESTAMENT -- NOT THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

"The Holy Scriptures of the Christian church contain two Testaments, but they comprise one Bible. The Old Testament, or Old Covenant, remains an essential part of the Christian Bible because the two covenants form one record of God's progressive and redemptive revelation to humankind." (Andrew E. Hill, John H. Walton, A survey of the Old Testament, 2nd ed., Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2000, p 555)

Cult leader Martin was confused on his basic definitions.

So is this a cult?

Absolutely. Calvary Phoenix teaches doctrine contrary to the plain teachings of Jesus and the Bible. Because the senior pastor there can't get basic definitions straight.

O my people, they which lead thee cause thee to err, and destroy the way of thy paths. Isaiah 3:12

RELATED READING:

Special Friends

Cultic Fund Raising

Historical Error

Rejects Gospel of Jesus Christ

Cultic Greed

2009-09-17T06:45:00.027-05:00

Dear Brother Tafari,

My son has a good job, where he is very well paid, so I was surprised when he asked me recently for a loan so he could get a new car.

I asked him if I could look over his records, and see how he had been spending his money. What I found was a real shocker. He'd been giving approximately 38% of his income to a religious cult.

I asked him why so much, and he explained that Pastor Mark had a building program going on, and the church really needed money.

Here in Phoenix, the Calvary cult is well known for teaching false, non-biblical doctrines. I told him that, but my son told me that Pastor Mark knew Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic, so how could the cult leader be wrong?

I hate to see my only son getting brainwashed with this false religion, but don't know much about theology myself. What can I do to help my boy?

Ted

BROTHER TAFARI RESPONDS

Dear Ted,

Arizona has been a state in the United States for less than 100 years. Before 1847, Arizona was still part of Mexico.

SEEKERS AFTER GOLD AND SOULS

The Spanish conquest of Mexico was about gold and territory, but it was also about the souls of the natives. "It is certain that, with notable exceptions, seekers after gold set themselves against seekers after souls."

"There were priests who came as chaplains to the troops before the arrival of the first regular missionaries, who must be counted with the gold seekers. There were also other priests who, for the greater part, were half adventurers who had left Spain to the relief of their bishops. They too were of the gold-seeker class." (Francis Clement Kelley, Blood-Drenched Altars - Mexican Study and Comment, 2nd ed., The Bruce Publishing Company, 1935, p 54)

THOSE GOLD SEEKERS ARE AS GREEDY TODAY AS THEY EVER WERE

But maybe these gold-seekers in the pulpit are old history by now? "But the main line of division was there. Both Christ and Mammon were well and numerously represented. The consequences of this early struggle never left the soil of Mexico, nor did the alignment very much change with the passing of the years." (Francis Clement Kelley, Blood-Drenched Altars - Mexican Study and Comment, 2nd ed., The Bruce Publishing Company, 1935, p 55)

Pastor Mark Martin operates a rapidly growing cult in the Phoenix area. (documented here) It seems that Arizona attracts people like this. (per Francis Clement Kelley, Blood-Drenched Altars - Mexican Study and Comment, 2nd ed., The Bruce Publishing Company, 1935, p 54) Ever since the first days of Spanish colonization right down to the present: "The consequences of this early struggle never left the soil of Mexico". There are plenty of Bible-believing churches in Phoenix, but also plenty run by "pastors" of the "gold-seeker class". (as per Francis Clement Kelley, Blood-Drenched Altars - Mexican Study and Comment, 2nd ed., The Bruce Publishing Company, 1935, p 54) In short, "Both Christ and Mammon were well and numerously represented".

So show your son the materials on this website.

And if he won't listen to reason and truth, there are still some good deprogrammers out there.

RELATED READING:

Pastor Mark's Special Friends

Shower Parties

Forsaking the Gospel of Jesus Christ

Wrong on Old Covenant

Calvary Chapel Cult Fabrication

2009-07-30T16:28:00.014-05:00

Pastor Mark Martin claims: "God has always dealt with his people with covenants." (J. Mark Martin, The Gospel and the Covenants, http://exadventist.com/
Home/Covenants/tabid/54/
Default.aspx) This airy proposition is unsupported by any citations or authorities. Consider the case of the created man Adam. When he was created, what "covenant" was in place? Pastor Mark can't say.

A covenant means: "In the Bible, God's promise to the human race." http://www.answers.com/
topic/covenant

BRAZEN FALSEHOOD

Pastor Mark falsely claims: "All covenants have a three-pronged structure. They include a promise by God, a condition, and a sign." (Pastor Mark Martin, The Gospel and the Covenants, http://exadventist.com/
Home/Covenants/tabid/54/
Default.aspx) Of course, Mr. Martin's false contention is completely unsupported by any citation or authorities. Because its wrong.

According to the dictionary definition cited above, when used in the Bible, "covenant" means God's promise. No condition. No sign necessary.

Pastor Mark Martin admits it, since he says at the same source that God's covenant with Noah had NO CONDITION. (Pastor Mark Martin, The Gospel and the Covenants, http://exadventist.com/
Home/Covenants/tabid/54/
Default.aspx)

First this false shepherd claims that all God's covenants had conditions, then he admits they did not.

SHORT STEP FROM DELIBERATELY TEACHING FALSE DOCTRINE TO PLAGIARISM

Pastor Mark goes on to claim, "The Ten Commandment Law was not given before Sinai." (Pastor Mark Martin, The Gospel and the Covenants, http://exadventist.com/
Home/Covenants/tabid/54/
Default.aspx)

Since Pastor runs his operation out of Arizona, we consider the local plagiarism rules: "it is very important that we give credit where it is due. Plagiarism is using others' ideas and words without clearly acknowledging the source of that information." (Avoiding Plagiarism, The University of Arizona Library, http://www.library.arizona.edu/
help/tutorials/plagiarism/
index.html

So, what is Pastor's source for his baseless claim: "The Ten Commandment Law was not given before Sinai" (Pastor Mark Martin, The Gospel and the Covenants, http://exadventist.com/
Home/Covenants/tabid/54/
Default.aspx)? He doesn't say. Which means he's engaged in plagiarism according to official University of Arizona standards.

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS WERE "A COVENANT"

While the Bible does describe the ten commandments, as promulgated at Sinai, as a covenant: And he declared unto you his covenant, which he commanded you to perform, even ten commandments; and he wrote them upon two tables of stone. (Deuteronomy 4:13, Holy Bible)

THE BIBLE NOWHERE SAYS THE SAME COVENANT WAS NOT MADE WITH OTHER PEOPLES

The Bible does not say that the regulations contained in the 10 commandments were not issued earlier, to other people.

But what about this text:

The LORD made not this covenant with our fathers, but with us, even us, who are all of us here alive this day. (Deuteronomy 5:3, Holy Bible)

FALSE SHEPHERD PUSHES CONCLUSIONS NOT BASED ON BIBLE

Pastor Mark suggests this means the regulations of the 10 Commandments had never been issued before.

This passage DOES NOT EVEN IMPLY that the Lord hadn't issued the same commandments to the peoples living in North America or Scandanavia (including their ancestors)!! At that time or previously.

Pastor Mark takes the position that if the Bible didn't mention an event, it didn't happen. (per Pastor Mark Martin, The Gospel and the Covenants, http://exadventist.com/
Home/Covenants/tabid/54/
Default.aspx) His position is contrary to logic, and lacks any basis in Scripture or fact.

MARK MARTIN: MURDER COMMANDMENT NOT ISSUED PRIOR TO SINAI

[8] And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.[9] And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother?

LYING

And he said, I know not: Am I my brother's keeper?[10] And he said, What hast thou done?

LORD GOD DISAGREES WITH PASTOR MARK MARTIN: IT WAS WRONG, SO A CURSE DESCENDED

the voice of thy brother's blood crieth unto me from the ground.[11] And now art thou cursed from the earth, which hath opened her mouth to receive thy brother's blood from thy hand;[12] When thou tillest the ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength; a fugitive and a vagabond shalt thou be in the earth. Genesis 4

If, as Pastor Mark Martin contends, God never laid out the 10 Commandment rules to people prior to Sinai, why did God have a problem with Cain killing his brother?

Deliberately teaching false doctrine to a gullible congragation is evil. And how about throwing in plagiarism (per University of Arizona standards) for good measure.