“Pentecostal snake handlers are increasingly calling on doctors for help when they get bitten while handling venomous snakes instead of simply praying that they don’t die.”

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“A group of about 125 snake-handling churches across America, including Hamblin’s, believe their practice is supported by the ‘signs’ described in Chapter 16 of the Gospel of Mark, which says, in part, that ‘They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.’” - CP

Discussion

The Poverty of the Prosperity Gospel

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“I personally have been ushered out the back door at healing services, after being publicly chastised. Many other disabled people have experienced similar treatment under the assumption that if you’re not healed, it’s your fault. ‘Because God’s will is for everyone to be healed. Always. The faithful will never suffer.’” - C.Leaders

Discussion

Parents choose prayer over doctors

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“A Philadelphia couple — serving 10 years’ probation for the 2009 death of their toddler after they turned to prayer instead of a doctor — has violated their probation now that another of their children has died.” FoxNews

Discussion