Statement by Pastors David and Marilyn on Todd Bentley

We have been very pleased to identify with the Lakeland, Florida revival, and had our church's facilities open every evening from April 16, projecting the live meetings on our big screen.  We ceased on July 20 as we had Fresh Fire Associate Bobby Sullivan here for healing meetings   Many from our small fellowship went to Lakeland and came back excited to minister extending the Kingdom of God.  Since we have identified publicly with Todd Bentley and were so excited when he twice mentioned Water & Wine as an overflow site, we feel an obligation to add our thoughts to the numerous statements about Todd that are swirling around.
 
Firstly, we assume that you have heard the distressing news about Todd Bentley.  It is obvious that  the pressure of carrying the Lakeland Outpouring would have been enormous, (and I confess being disappointed myself any time when Todd was not speaking).  Also, the attacks from other followers of Jesus were very vicious, and it seemed towards the end that both Todd and his associates were distracted by the attacks.  But, although we can understand how all of this could affect Todd, we do not condone his recent behaviour.
 
I appreciate the board of Fresh Fire being forthright and upfront and trying to handle  the situation in a Christ honouring manner, removing Todd from ministry and posting updates on the Fresh Fire website.
 
There is much being written on Todd's situation,  but I want to focus on the statement from John Arnott,  as it is written by an insider, and a man who I greatly respect.  Also I encourage you to listen to Bill Johnson.  His last Sunday's sermon is on U Tube. 
http://hk.youtube.com/watch?v=MG4g2QMrKMo
Bill is one of the most profound teachers in our movement and teaches on how situations like this should be handled.  If you want more information,check out Peter and Doris Wagner's explanation of how they became involved, and the steps that they have taken since the information about Todd has been revealed.
http://healingrooms.com/index.php?src=tbdwarticle.. 

There are many other comments and statements, most seemed fueled by bitterness and condemnation and are continuations of the attacks that existed throughout the Outpouring.,but if you are interested in following this issue, in order to learn and pray, also check out  Dutch Sheets and Rick Joyner.
 
I still feel that what was going on at Lakeland was a genuine move of God, with many amazing healing, but Todd's recent behaviour has cast a shadow, not only on Lakeland, but on all of us who believed in what was going on.
 
 Although I am very disappointed, and feel let down by Todd, I am even more concerned for those of you in the evangelical community, who came to the realization that there is more to the 'salvation package" that what was previously understood.  Some of you took a public stand in favour of the Lakeland revival and Todd, and Marilyn and I encouraged you in that.  I am very sorry that Todd betrayed your trust in him and the revival, and pray that you will not become disillusioned or cynical.
 
Marilyn and I are also sorry that many in our congregation, who faithfully attended the nightly GOD-TV viewings, and also those of you who spent hard earned money to go to Lakeland, have had the sad experience of seeing your hero fall.  However, I also know that you were seeking God, not Todd, and in that you have not been disappointed, and your enthusiasm that was kindled for the Kingdom of God is so exciting and encouraging for Marilyn and I.
 
I hope that the taste that you have had of the power of God will continue to impact.