What we’re seeing in today’s Christendom sparring very well may be that of Cessationists/theologians/apologists/intellectuals vs. spiritualists/spiritual gifts operators/Continuationists.

Cessationists believe that the spiritual gifts ceased at the time of the early Church era and the apostles. This thought process is often viewed through the lens of those who have attended Reformed theological schools and studies, which do not promote the continuation of spiritual gifts and their function. Instead, they concentrate more on exegesis, history, and the study of the Word of God (logos).

Continuationists believe that the spiritual gifts are certainly still in operation today under the filling and leading of the Holy Spirit, thus allowing the believer to function in the activity of gifts such as the Prophet and Apostle, along with the gifts listed in Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12.

Yet, when the two sides argue—that one is too stringent/intellectual and the other too over-the-top and emotional—you begin to hear the heralding of names like Witch, Jezebel, False Teacher, Control Freaks, Erroneous Spiritual Covers, and other negative descriptions.

This is the plot of one of the greatest plans of our era, particularly within the African-American church. And it is because, while we have become more educated and astute in our Bible knowledge, it has caused one group to frown upon the gifts of the Spirit and the operation of the Holy Spirit as seen in C.H. Mason and the Azusa Street Revival.

So, what are we seeing playing out?

Is this a deeply rooted identity issue causing an internal war of “field niers”vs.“houseniers” vs. “house niers”vs.“houseniers” or light-skinned versus dark-skinned syndrome?

We have now come to the place where we are warring against functional biblical literacy—and questioning whether the Spirit of God is truly speaking and moving in today’s prophets or prophetic people. Woe!

Neither group realizes that this warfare is being played by a demonic spirit to divide and conquer—due to its effective history over 400 years of bondage, colonization, and theological education that disputes the leading of the Holy Spirit. Meanwhile, others are spirit-led yet eisegete Scripture instead of exegeting it properly.

And now, a new generation is being played by this same divided spirit under a new cause! Some trust solely in the need for the Holy Ghost and His power to free and liberate, while others feel that if you have no biblical knowledge, what good is the Spirit going to do but keep you emotionally dependent?

Houston, we really do have a problem!

— Apostle Annette M. Carswell
Friday, June 13th, 2025