Surprised no one’s mentioned this, but one of the most notorious televangelists in the nation might be finally facing his day of reckoning.
Benny Hinn meets every stereotype about televangelists—ostentatious lifestyle, expensive suits, and a near fanatical following. He’s been able to deflect criticism before, but this week saw strong indications that his luck may be running out.
Earlier this week, IRS agents and postal inspectors, armed with a search warrant, raided Benny Hinn’s headquarters in Grapevine, Texas. They arrived Wednesday morning, and were seen walking out of the compound carrying boxes full of documents.
In an ominous sign for Hinn, the investigators were still there on Thursday. Earlier, WFAA in Dallas revealed two equally ominous signs. On Wednesday, WFAA reported that the particular agents on this case are people that no one wants to see.
Specifically, they’re from the Criminal Investigation Division, which investigates tax evasion and general tax fraud. Additionally, a federal source says that this is part of a very lengthy investigation.
Later on Wednesday, WFAA spoke with Ole Anthony of the Trinity Foundation—best known as the guy who helped bring down Robert Tilton. Anthony said that the IRS is extremely reluctant to tee up churches and religious groups, even though there is “more fraud in the name of God” than virtually anything else in the world.
Hinn spent most of the week at a crusade in Paris. On Thursday afternoon, he tried to put a positive spin on what can only be described as a disaster.
Um, Benny? When the IRS unit charged with looking into criminal activity is at your doorstep hauling out documents, that isn’t just a “review” of “certain operations of the Church.” It’s reason for you to have a lawyer on speed dial.
Even more telling are some of the comments. They provide an alarming glimpse into the fundicostal mentality.
“Ehhh, this too shall pass! This is not about taxes or anything else - it's about where God is is taking Pastor Benny and this ministry - signs , wonders and miracles, and the presence of God, such that not been seen before nor even thought of... to bring in this last day harvest of souls, souls , souls. We are staying focused!!
With you all the way Pastor Benny. 😄”
”Take heart man of God,persecution is part of the Christian package.Soon we shall rejoice together and testify that ‘And it came to pass.....’”
”Pastor Benny we love you so much, we are so greatful to God for you and your family. We know the enemy won't stop when we are doing the will of God,and that is what your ministry is doing, stay strong, focus yours eyes on him and he will give victory over and over again, God bless you, will keep you in our prayers”
”We love you Pastor Benny this will all clear up soon just another attack of the devil the best is yet to come sir we love you and your ministry”
”Praying for you Pastor Benny and your Ministry. Let there be no weapon formed against you shall prosper.We refute every tongue that rises against you in Jesus Name Amen.”
”People are just jeolous and they will do anything to take him down but God is on your side Pastor Benny. Be still for God is with you.”
If you’re wondering how these guys remain standing after being exposed as charlatans and shysters, well, here’s your answer.
