Ravi Zacharias is Amnon - Who Are You In The Story? || 2 Samuel 13

2 Samuel 13 can be found here: www.biblegateway.com/passage/...
The Miller and Martin report into Ravi Zacharias's sexual abuse can be found here: s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/rz...
Lori-Anne Thompson's victim impact statement is here: loriannethompson.com/2021/02/...
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[@charlottepatterson2864]

I listened to RZ some in the past, but somehow always felt something was missing from his talks; he was so eloquent, so skillfully weaving together a bit of scripture, a touching illustration, an intellectual challenge, a discreet bit of self promotion that I came away often feeling like I was just too stupid to “get it” even though I knew I was a Christian. After listening to this presentation so far, it seems to me Ravi was also “grooming” his audiences for the spiritual rape that was his real intention, the taking of what wasn’t his, the praise of men which should only go to God. Thank you for this. It clarifies this whole situation more than anything I’ve heard or read. RZ was a wolf in sheep’s clothing, not a sheep at all. There was too much care and planning that went into his double life for it to be considered a momentary lapse by a Christian brother. We all need to examine ourselves whether we be in the faith and test the spirits of all those who seek to influence us by the Word of God. I feel for his family and pray they will find peace in Christ Himself.

[@Daniel-mw7pu]

Apologetics in general is like this - it’s a form of spiritual manipulation that works to dismiss and deflect valid criticism.

[@isaiahaguirre227]

I appreciate the anger in your voice during this presentation, I think you are echoing what a lot of us are feeling about the situation. Also, blending in Ravi's actions in contrast with Amnon was the best explanation of what has happened that I've heard so far. Thank you for the perspective.

[@williamsouthwad]

Ravi Zacharias .. He was a Hindu, and told us he was one. He was ok with it all, never saw anything wrong. Why did God tell us to have the gift Discernment in the Church? No church has it today, so what do you expect. We need to get real, that includes you. And me.

[@philipjohnson1546]

I agree I think he nailed it. I subscribed I appreciate him very much

[@citisamsjw5513]

He was not a Hindu 😨

[@williamsouthwad]

@@citisamsjw5513 He was a Hindu, in disguise. If you listen to his background. He never saw anything wrong with what he was doing.

[@manuelasilva9359]

I cried through this video. For each act of abuse made public there are countless private ones. Thank you for bringing kingdom truth and light with such courage and clarity. With this, you spoke life to me.

[@angelakatsapas7894]

Amen.

[@malpais776]

Amen II

[@helenfoster3639]

Yes I agree how many women young girls overseas where Ravi had “ Sabbaticals “have been abused by Ravi having no voice ... these poor women in poor countries ...... RZIM should be disbanded and the millions made given to these poor women who were abused ..... How on earth can his family justify anything ..... Nobody I don’t think has any idea who else is on the board of directors on RZIM apart from his own family ... his wife/daughter and son I believe !!!!! Which I think is illegal Why cannot the NDA be revoked None disclosure ??????? What r they trying to cover up !!!! It’s the victims that need healing Was there human trafficking involved ????? Ravis two apartments in Thailand were 3 miles ?from the red light district .... hello !!!!

[@emmanuelthoma534]

Oh God help us not to fall victim of such wicked habits of Amnon....

[@foolonthehill5065]

I watched this with tears, Glen. You stuck exactly the right tone while delivering your analysis and comparison between Amnon and Ravi Z. May Christ comfort the Tamars of this world.

[@chrisbronsdon624]

Amen.

[@ebierekoroye3436]

Amen. And deliver them out of the hands of wolves in sheep’s clothing

[@ashanmendis8091]

the other important point is the other characters who are we in it

[@sadewaagus]

I can imagine how hard it is for you to make this video, Glen. By doing this you've helped people process the hurt biblically. Thank you!

[@R1chard570]

Nice comment

[@weskitchens4061]

@@R1chard570 ]]

[@margemotta7595]

O47777733fffgttty6ott73youu73o8

[@1963munni]

St.Augustine, in imitation of Christ, says that there can be evil men who do and teach the works of God.

[@natasjaoosthuizen3334]

Yes. Thank you .

[@SpinnyStudios]

Man, the stories in the Bible just continue to repeat themselves don't they? Heart is heavy... but also realize my ability to be evil if I don't humble myself daily.

[@dcchong8102]

God gave us the OT to tell us there is no hope in the flesh, it cannot be 'bettered' and the only thing we can do is to fall on the grace of God. Though these grievous sins can be forgiven, they still serve as solemn warnings of the consequences of sins.

[@talyahthekingsdaughter37]

Spot on. 🙏

[@davidsarkar6668]

Well said 💯👍

[@annebritraaen2237]

Every wicked side of the human heart are exposed there. So much, it's often hard to process.

[@davidsarkar6668]

@@annebritraaen2237 very true

[@angelabrennan2271]

As a victim of rape myself thank you SO VERY MUCH for bringing a biblical perspective to this sin in the church! This video gives me hope that the remnant church is rising up to speak the truth boldly. Too many leaders in our churches today are FreeMasons. No different than the Pharisees in the Bible. God is clearly separating the wheat from the tares. Keep purifying your bride Jesus. We need only you Lord to fill our hearts and homes.🙏🏻❤️🔥

[@KristiLEvans1]

Amen, Angela! Well said, and sadly, you’re so right. God give you His Peace.

[@annebritraaen2237]

Freemasonry are based on recruting community builders. They are lured in, and keep in check with oaths and cult-like practices. It's like a blight.

[@Kallan1909]

Very well put, Angela. I am so sorry for the abuse you endured. It is evident that you’re a powerful voice and advocate for those who have been the target of sinister predators. Thank you so much.

[@jenniferpowell9511]

This is the very best perspective on this matter I've ever heard from a church leader. So many complicit parties to all of these stories and as a survivor, I'm grateful for your diligence and passion in putting this out there. My abuses all came from "godly" men so the only part I was not accepting of was the plead to get back into the church...I cannot and will not (though I understand and agree with the premise of the need for community and love). But I do know Jesus and I will never leave him, because Love has never abused me.

[@sarawoods1450]

That shows impressive strength God keep you

[@cheryllamos5074]

I am sad & sorry you were abused. Pray for healing from our loving Jesus who loves you so much.

[@Apriluser]

Thank you for your forthright talk. What an absolute shame, sham, and horror for so many: the abused women, Ravi’s family, coworkers, the Church, those outside the Church who heard him speak, and Christ Himself. Apart from God’s grace, there is no health in us. Have mercy on us, O God.

[@Kallan1909]

Thank you for expressing your righteous anger. The parallel of Amnon and Ravi Zacharias was as precise as it was powerful. Sifting through all of this has stirred up a vast array of emotions in many people. For me personally, anger is the primary emotion...and it is not always “righteous”. The Lord is showing me just how much I have blindly and carelessly exalted mortal man. Truly, there is only One who is worthy to be praised.

[@davidramage8860]

This is the beat video in response to Ravi's evil I've seen so far. Good stuff bro. You are direct, Sharp and on point with this message

[@SpeakLifeMedia]

Thank you David

[@1963munni]

St.Augustine, in imitation of Christ, says that there can be evil men who do and teach the works of God.

[@dianemacdougall319]

totally agree with you David Ramage. Makes me love the Bible even more, also!

[@NorthStar20]

Well called. There are always enablers. There are always those who see but turn away. 😔 Come Holy Spirit. Renew the hearts of your people...

[@TheDodzior]

Wow, that was soul piercing. I guess we all need to take a good look in the mirror and cling to the Word for counsel. "For the word of God is alive and active..." Hebrews 4;12

[@dmm6341]

We all need to pray for his family....could you imagine the horror that Margie (his wife), Naomi (his daughter, who works saving girls from sex trafficking) his other daughter and his son are going through, and it will never end. They are victims as well, who are probably not receiving the help they need. It's not their fault, but the legacy he left them is absolutely horrific. Please remember them as well as the victims. God bless them...Amen.

[@passionforbiblicaltruth8288]

When you read the reports it becomes very clear his family were complicit in his abusing lifestyle.

[@dmm6341]

@@passionforbiblicaltruth8288 I really doubt that, sorry, just because they believed him, it doesn't make them at fault. Maybe if your parents were accused of something horrible, you may not believe it either. How horrible to accuse them for loving their patriarch. What's the matter??

[@OneTouchShort]

Those are all earthly things, I do not know them so I don't know their hearts all I can do is look at his life and what The Scripture says. If they are Christ's He will keep them spotless and without wrinkle, He will present them holy and without blemish, Ephesian 5:25-27. Matthew 24:24 "For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect." Ravi is a false teacher/prophet and he presented a false gospel that is man-centred, not Christ-centred, Christ said, if possible the elect would be lead astray, Ravi did lead them astray. You might say but they're family, my dad believes a false gospel, I've shown him the Scriptures but he is still lead stray by false teacher/prophet because he's not Christ elect, according to Scripture. Ravi has always been a false teacher and the fruit of his life proves that according to Christ's teaching. Matthew 7:15-20 "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits." If you have been led astray by him because you think he was good at one time or that he was a good teacher or that he had sound doctrine or that he presented Christ, you need to be worried because wolves are unregenerate people that cannot know the truth of Christ nor His kingdom, they cannot see His kingdom nor can they enter because they are not born again John 3:3-5 "Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God." Ravi is not the only one, what people call the church (warehouse) is full of them, many of these warehouses have song services with songs of self-adoration, they are all about me, I, we and what I can do with Jesus added to sound churchy, never about His holiness, righteousness, justice, wrath or His grandeur in salvation and always repetitive like heathen prayers. The reason this is going on is that people idolize themselves and man so you have idolators filling up warehouses but acting like it's the Church of Christ because it has a Christianese name on it. They are so self-promoting they tell people if you're seeking God you can find Him when He says no one seeks Him, Romans 3:10-18 "as it is written: “None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.”“Their throat is an open grave; they use their tongues to deceive.” “The venom of asps is under their lips.” “Their mouth is full of curses and bitterness.” “Their feet are swift to shed blood; in their paths are ruin and misery, and the way of peace they have not known.” “There is no fear of God before their eyes.” Ravi was taken away in the Lord's anger and wrath. Psalms 90:7-8 "For we are brought to an end by your anger; by your wrath we are dismayed. You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of your presence." Because the Lord hates the wicked and he has punishment for them. Psalms 11:5-6 "The Lord tests the righteous, but his soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence. Let him rain coals on the wicked; fire and sulfur and a scorching wind shall be the portion of their cup." The Lord will not be mocked nor will Christ's Gospel be perverted with His righteous indignation on those that pervert it. Again, if you thought Ravi was a good anything have to do with Christ, I pray the Lord would have mercy on you to be one of His elect so that you won't be led astray. There is so much more that needs to be said about the false doctrine of wicked sinners with depraved hearts be able to choose the Lord, read Joshua 24:19-28 the book of Judges tell us they served other gods, even though they gave lip serves to the Lord, Isaiah 29:13 "And the Lord said: “Because this people draw near with their mouth and honor me with their lips, while their hearts are far from me," unregenerate hearts are far from the Lord speaking words of service to the Lord without a regenerated heart, does nothing for salvation.

[@passionforbiblicaltruth8288]

@@dmm6341 they knew as he would not hand over his cell phone with the texts. then they lied about him not handing it over. They said that he was being totally transparent and accountable. When this action was called out by one member of the bord they turned on them accusing her of being a traitor. You should read the reports and wake up.

[@tanjasmit7535]

....his wife and family pray for them, but a woman knows....very sad 😢

[@louisemitch1]

A powerful comment on this utterly dreadful revelation re RZ. And especially insightful to emphasise Christ as victim coming alongside victims as the truly trustworthy saviour. Thank you Glen. Come Holy Spirit.

[@julieann67gtfb]

Best biblical analysis of this horrible situation thus far! Best offering of biblical comfort to hurting victims! Thank you.

[@jonathanbrown1086]

Thanks Glen. The comparison with Amnon / Tamar was helpful in processing all of this. Some great application points too

[@markreilly52]

Thank you for speaking with truth, passion and courage. I cannot ever remember such a powerful and appropriate reading of scripture.

[@cedubs999]

This is one of the most intense, truthful, and enlightening Ravi commentaries that I’ve listened to (and I’ve gone through most of them.) Thank you for this insight into Ravi’s fall by drawing upon the lessons of the Bible, specifically the corruption in King David’s family and the parallels in Genesis. The predatory mindset was the same and it was more than one person. One person was the perpetrator but the corruption was systemic.

[@Thankful305]

Yup! Exactly what I was going to say ! When the revelation of The Word is applied to our human condition; we must learn from it and... !STOP! repeating the same mistakes. When are we going to realize The Truth of the Cross and price Jesus paid, to overcome the SIN in our lives ---through the power of His Holy Spirit !?? When church? Are we going to learn from this or just turn our back b/c it doesn't affect you personally!?!

[@botsterfilion7718]

The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked. Who can know it?

[@andrewburke203]

Thank you for this Glen, often I find it very hard myself to understand and interact with such atrocities. Your faithfulness to the Bible, speaking out for the victims and pointing to Christ is an encouragement to a weary soul! Blessings brother.

[@jennifereason1884]

FINALLY. Someone is speaking to this situation with the level of outrage that is warranted. I read today that RZ had co-authored a book with Lee Strobel (which I didn't know heretofore). LEE STROBEL, a trained investigative journalist, was also one of the duped. How is that even possible?! Zacharias did mega-damage. I hate to think how this will play out in the future. Thank you, Glen Scrivener, for finding a perfectly analogous story in the story of Tamar. At minute 25 and a bit beyond: such a good, comforting (in the sense of giving *strength*) observation on why Tamar's story is told.

[@nicoles881]

I think this is the best analysis that I've heard.

[@nsoper19]

This video helped me and my wife think through the bad news of ravi zacharias in a biblical and gospel centred way. We were struggling to make sense of it all. Thanks a lot.

[@lucaswilhelmmeyer6943]

If men don't hold on to His Words and live by it ,they are not!

[@stumblingstonemusic6519]

Thank you Glen for your brutally honest exposition of both Scripture and the culture we live in. May God have mercy on us all! Your challenge to us is well received on my part at least. Keep speaking the truth Brother, we need to hear it! Grace and peace, Steve

[@carolemiller2988]

Glenn I said in an earlier post I took exception with some thing that you said. What I failed to do was to say how much I appreciated your teaching. I’ve heard pastors preach on that story for over 45 years and your teaching was by far one of the best teachings if not the best I’ve ever heard. God bless you keep, up the good work.

[@deludedjester]

Incredible exposé, not only about the fallen Ravi but also of us all. I have struggled with responding because I can see that only Jesus deserves His name and blood above the door; Ravi was playing with fire naming his ministry with his own name as it invites pride. Or perhaps the pride and desires were already there before the ministry. It pricks my conscience despite being unaware of any cases of abuse of any kind in churches I have been in. I have to wonder if I have missed it and have been negligent. I pray that I have been lucky enough to not been in Amnon's company nor that of the others in this scripture. I pray that we find our courage to stand up for justice, not a one sided assumption basis justice, not an avoidance and keeping quiet type of peace, but a real seeking for the truth, disruptive truth, truth that spins us on our heads. We need to be reoriented, recalibrated and realigned by the true plumb line Jesus Christ.

[@petethorne5094]

As one other commenter mentioned, if we have watched porn we are Ammnon. I would be surprised if many of us can escape this judgement. Thank god for the offer of repentance leading to forgiveness in Jesus Christ.

[@HMSindistinguishable]

Thank you for this valuable analysis and fitting biblical exposition. In this analysis I feel a whiff of the righteous, measured, holy, omniscient, anger of God before sin. It is a message we so dearly need to hear. God have mercy.

[@twynhamchurchonline]

Great job Glen, we cannot hide from these things and should not minimise the effect of sin perpetrated and excused by our failure to call it out and say it as it is. The Biblical narrative speaks volumes into the generational consequences of that kind of failure.

[@CK-fj5ql]

Thank you for being so open Glen. Your point about why would would Christian organizations require people to sign non disclosure agreements was bang on.

[@talyahthekingsdaughter37]

You did a phenomenal job properly dissecting this and not cowering to call it out for what it is. Everyone else I hear speak on this only shames the victims by affirming RZ to be a child of God. Not such! He was a child of satan and I’m so thankful for this video. It gives me hope that not every man is defiled in their hearts and consciences. God bless you for having the heart and courage to say what NEEDS/needed to be said. 🙏

[@KristiLEvans1]

This was really, really powerful. I have to take breaks to complete the video, but it’s amazingly well done. It must’ve been difficult for you to get through it yourself. God be with you. Thank you.

[@jackielouw4752]

You're so right when you say how depressing this all is. It's depressing to look inside the human soul and realise how depraved it is. We are all guilty in some way and without the redeeming love and grace of Christ we are all doomed. Thank you for this brilliant message🙏🙏🙏

[@irenepalmer7597]

Wow wow! What a beautiful thing to hear someone speak the truth and not make light as I have heard most people in the church and pastors of the situation with Ravi do! The way you brought that story in the Bible into this matter was a wonderful way of putting it. Your discernment is correct. When I came back into the church I thought I was safe because I was amongst believers to find out not only in one church but other churches that there are many manipulators in the church who grab someone who is giving loving and rob them blind. It is narcissism and it is very widely done in the church and one could call it a Jezebel Spirit to keep it in the biblical sense. After being victimized a few times I am now exposing the one who did the most damage. As you asked, what do we do with it. I had to leave the church and in the process of trying to heal over all of this whatever you wanna call it. My relationship with the Lord has grown very strong because I had to realize I need to only trust in him and trust no one else. I am not attending a church right now but yet I have great joy because Jesus never leaves us nor forsakes us. It is not the fault of Jesus that these people do these things and Paul even spoke about that happening during His ministry.

[@KristiLEvans1]

This was hard to watch. It seems fitting that Ravi Zacharias fits into one last Bible story. Thank you, sir. God give you peace.

[@kbeetles]

Wow! This is very passionate! .... you are expressing something for so many of us. One either despairs and falls silent or rants and raves and exposes oneself to mockery. (No, the world does not want to understand!) But this is reality! May Christ lead us all to true righteousness... and thank you for your passion!

[@JC-od8cd]

The bible account of Amnon is such a parallel to Ravi....thank you for pointing this out. thank you for your compassion and uplifting our Savior.

[@reynaldol.deguzman3039]

Ravi Zacharias ' sad and hypocritical life is a reminder to all in ministry. It is possible to be effective and win many, yet in the end, hear the words of our Lord say, " Depart from me, l never knew you."

[@rebeccawright2038]

One of the best expositions I've heard in a lifetime of listening to superb sermons on the evil and the ramifications of sin. Thank you, Pastor Scrivener!

[@makaminsk]

I didn't really want to listen to this, but I'm so glad I did.

[@zenyhuelgas8128]

Thanks for this Ammon-Ravi comparison. It brings an honest biblical perspective of Ravi's tragedy. As a Christian, we must keep a watchful eye and and also be cautious not to be deceived by a preacher's intelligence or eloquence.

[@1963munni]

St.Augustine, in imitation of Christ, says that there can be evil men who do and teach the works of God.

[@BassoonsAreAwesome]

So so helpful, thank you. I feel much more equipped to talk about this with both Christian and non-Christian friends.

[@TheCarpentersDesk]

This was powerful, provocative and spot on. I've seen some good responses to the situation, but this is unique because it's grounded in scripture.

[@peterthomas6151]

I have been finding this news extremely difficult and hurtful. I never met or saw or came to faith through R Zacharis but his videos made a huge impact on strengthening my faith and my apologetics at a time when I was weak. There has and will be so many exposes and mud flinging going on from all directions, including at things that I still think R Zacharias did right. But listening to a Bible study that is just simply open and honest has been really healing for me.

[@Francine1117]

I was intrigued by the title of this video, so I decided to watch it. This is an excellent video! The truth is spoken here!! Thank you for opening the eyes to this subject! For showing the righteous anger that makes people ask those seriously important questions for so called leaders!! This is brilliant!! God bless you!!

[@achilles6445]

Oh man I thought i was cool and calm person. Untill my sister got kidnapped and molested.. after I realised i could kill without any qualms...or be wickedly spiteful.. we truly need God to change our heart.

[@erinsnave6214]

That was so powerful Glen. Thank you for being so real and open and honest.

[@-ujou9673]

Glen Scrivener, I gave thank for this video you posted, that you went back to the Scripture in 2 Samuel 13 to reflect on the Ravi Zacharias sexual crimes. I read the RZIM’s released report because I wanted to know, even if just on surface level what went on behind Ravi’s crimes. It is devastating to read/hear about his sins, but I am glad we truly do it. Jesus Christ, the only Holy God and Perfect Person for our faith. Yes, cling to Him.

[@jeanshearn9779]

Thank you so much for speaking the truth with such clarity. Not only about this specific situation but also other situations within churches. These are often either ignored or swept under the carpet and kept hidden “for the sake of the church”. Very little love or compassion is shown to the victim and others involved, who are emotionally damaged beyond measure.

[@andys3035]

Ravi had no accountability. He answered to no one, so he thought. We all answer to God in the end

[@cryogenicheart2019]

He answered to cancer, got right with Jesus and was called home.

[@dmm6341]

I would probably want to answer to anyone besides God, if I were him....he must have stopped believing. I hope with all my might, that he truly repented.

[@carolbassant5396]

@@cryogenicheart2019 Amen, thank you for your post 📬.

[@passionforbiblicaltruth8288]

@@cryogenicheart2019 Ravi did not get right with God. He refused to take accountability for what he did. He never admitted to abusing his victims, never apologised and asked forgiveness from them. That is not getting right with God

[@passionforbiblicaltruth8288]

@Perfect Cell So we can sin as much as we want while we are alive just so long as we ask for forgiveness when we die? Good luck with that.

[@cynthiaashley1996]

Powerful. Very triggering, but spot on. I've been thinking a lot about Tamar since the revelation. Thank you for this.

[@anneedelstam4146]

Thank you ❤️ finally someone is defending us women who've been abused!

[@christopherhickin4125]

(Chris H.) Thank you Glen, this is brave and to the point. I want to remind everyone of a principle that has stood since the earliest days of the church, that sin on the part of the minister does not invalidate the ministry. A moment's thought and you can see that if this were not the case, no-one would dare to undertake any ministry whatsoever. I am concerned particularly for those who have come to faith through RZIM and will be tempted to despair. We have to assure them that their experience, insofar as it concerns Jesus Himself, remains valid. This does not detract from the enormity of what Z. has done, indeed it adds to it in that he has exposed such people to despair.

[@martinbailey7877]

Your right glen. Turn the other cheek doesn't mean turn and look away

[@rebeccavega6851]

Well said . A very interesting and unique take on RZ terrible sin . May the Lord continue to shine his light on our sin and bring us to repentance.

[@sarahpiaggio2693]

We can assume that predators like this will always exist. But it's up to the little people not to be intimidated by the person's reputation and position. For powerful people to be successful predators, their followers need to keep their eyes and ears shut and refuse to talk. They (we) have to be cowards who are willing to compromise what we know to be right because it's inconvenient to stand against it. We have to be more afraid of losing a job, or influence, or of being targeted in revenge by the perpetrator (which is a realistic fear) than we care about the damage caused to the victims. And when we see something bad but can't believe that someone who appears good can do such a thing, we assume "I must be seeing things. This can't be true. It must be an anomaly". I think we're all capable of that kind of willful blindness and cowardice That's why we need the grace of God and strengthening from the Holy Spirit so that we don't ignore the apparently little things or excuse things done by influential people.

[@mitchelltj1]

We must not be cowards. It appears to me that this rising cultural idea that we cannot speak up, because someone might get offended or have their feelings hurt is a factor in the enabling of Amnons. Instead, speak the truth in love. (Eph. 4:15)

[@blaxlandpianopathways]

Thank you for this long compelling provocative comparison, Glen.

[@1963munni]

St.Augustine, in imitation of Christ, says that there can be evil men who do and teach the works of God.

[@selvaprabhakar9154]

Glen, you have done a great job as an effective APOLOGIST for the victims of Ravi. You passionately defended the victims while angrily and bitterly condemned The Sinner Ravi. I must say that in the process you have earned the appreciation of the women who are victims and their sympathizers. Now you need to be cautious as a Man of God because he who thinks he stands must make sure he does not fall.....genuine appreciations from our sisters must not lead you to become another Ravi (or another Amnon). Often a man who vehemently condemns another might be found doing the same. God protect you! Your analogy of Amnon is just marvellous while few things are not fitting. But you are a good exponent!

[@SpeakLifeMedia]

Thank you GBU41, I hear you.

[@chrisbronsdon624]

This Bible study is essential viewing. Thank you for your powerful critique of the disaster that was Ravi Zacharias. But thank you more for pointing us to Christ, the Righteous King.

[@tamaking7104]

King David was also a disaster, but at the same time one of the 5 greatest heroes of faith of the Old testament and author of the most insightful, helpful psalms ever penned. Ravi's faults do not erase the truth or power of his insightful messages. Both Ravi and David are proof that God can and does work through imperfect vessels, including you and me.

[@chrisbronsdon624]

@@tamaking7104 the huge difference is, we know King David was deeply repentant and was forgiven of his sin; see Psalm 51. I am not aware of any public record of RV confessing his sexual crimes. We have no knowledge of his standing before the Lord.

[@tamaking7104]

@@chrisbronsdon624 Exactly right. We have no knowledge of Ravi's standing before the Lord. We do know that he believed in the saving grace of Christ and I personally doubt that he would have ignored this. Yes, David provided a public record of his repentance AFTER he had been found out and out on the spot and even then in his repentance prayer he said "against you only, Lord, have I sinned" (presumably meaning that Bathsheba was a willing accomplice). If anyone is to cast judgement of God's saving grace towards Ravi (as there have been many) then such a person ought to be very careful indeed. Probably a majority of us have repeated sins we are guilty of and unregenerate sinful behaviour for which we often or from time to time confess to God. God takes us in His time. Are we to say that if God took us at a time when at that moment we had unconfessed sin or were in a state of avoiding or running from God over a particular type of sin. that his saving grace would not cover us? Are we not born again into his grace and family? DO our own children cease to become children on the moments , days , months or years they may be resisting their parents? No, the relationship remains at two levels because of the birth or adoption into the family and because of the enduring unconditional love of the parents. The gospel of salvation we carry is based on the character of Christ and the surety of his grace, not on our efforts or good works, lest any man boast. The wayward son pays a price of estrangement, loss of reward and depth of relationship to some degree or another for his resistance but he never ceases to be a son. Whether Ravi was a prodigal son in terms of repenting for specific sins before his death is something we will never know. But our reliance on the character and promise of God for salvation is something surer than the ground we walk on, for Ravi as much as for ourselves. Rightly or wrongly, like David, Ravi obviously considered certain of his sins to be a private matter. Where other parties were complicit it certainly was. Being an intellectual giant and faithful defender of the faith does not make one a moral giant. Indeed since knowledge puffs up, and gives one power it can make one more vulnerable to sin. A life of travel, opportunity and lack of accountability makes a life of duplicity easy, as King Solomon demonstrated. We know Ravi as a deep philosophical thinker. The more creative the mind, the more vulnerable to self justification one is, and we are all vulnerable in this regard when it comes to our own sins. As for myself, I am fully aware of sins I have shared with or committed against another being used by God for personal spiritual development not only of myself but for the other person, especially when there was a prayer of faith or plea for God's merciful hand. We are not Ravi and do not know his mind, personal prayers or spirit towards the other parties in these private affairs. If Ravi was before us then those who were close or had walked in his shoes would have the right to speak to him on these matters; less than a handful of people I expect. Others should tread cautiously, especially in his absence. I think all should use a very large measure of grace and humility towards Ravi, our own conscience and Christ, who is Ravi's Lord and our Lord. Without this, we ourselves are toast and our faith in vain.

[@sibyb1851]

One of the best explanations I have heard about Ravi's fall and a beautiful exposition from the Word of God. This is not just Ravis case alone, sadly there are many like this in the Christian leadership. We don't know many because they have not been exposed yet. Where is Christianity heading ? Think about our children. Is there a genuine church they could go and attend ? Is there a genuine spiritual leader, pastor or Evangelist the new generation can look up to or draw inspiration from ? Many are wolves in sheep clothing. They all seem good until they are exposed. All of us children of God need to be very alert and sober and lead lives pleasing to God. The enemy prowl like a lion, seeking who he might devour.

[@bezaassegu7384]

This was the best analysis I have seen so far! Straight from the heart of God. Thank you!

[@MrMemyselfandi415]

I was and AM devastated by what Ravi did. I loved Ravi and watched TONS of his videos and listened to hours and hours and hours of sermons of his. He was my favorite. I thought of him as the greatest apologist of our time....and a man above reproach. It just goes to show that you can't trust anyone. It's sad....because no matter how much you live a clean life...you understand when others look at you like you could be a horrible human and worse. And you look at them the same way...because you never really know...and that's so sad...because there ARE good people. You just...have to find them...and ....look closely. It's the nature of being human, and the time we are living in. HOW can you talk like he did...day after day...with such high ideals....about Jesus...and the Holy Spirit...and blatantly live in such sin? Maybe he stopped believing....and therefore he just figured he would live how he wanted. But to talk about the transforming power of the Holy spirit and then NOT be transformed....HOW DO YOU RECONCILE THAT? "Behold the power of your god"....so powerful and strong that he can't even change the heart and life of his very own ministers. I just.....don't know what I think about all of this. I'm still digesting it. I'm so sorry for the victims...and his family. I wish he were here to respond.

[@HearGodsWord]

I feel like I've learned more from Ravi's lies then I did from the truths he preached (the truths he failed to live by).

[@justgettingby7725]

I've been feeling the same way. So many people in the church are tackling this issue with truth and honesty.

[@mannytorrez2138]

Daniel 6:4 (KJV) Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him.

[@amysands8925]

@@justgettingby7725 Hiding under the clook of reglion. Terrible.

[@bellyfulochelly4222]

For sure!

[@1963munni]

St.Augustine, in imitation of Christ, says that there can be evil men who do and teach the works of God.

[@kurtanderson5023]

This is probably the best I have heard in the subject of Ravi. You and Mike Winger - but you fleshed it out and opened the scriptures. Thank you.

[@SpeakLifeMedia]

Thanks for listening

[@caroline1425yt]

Profound message, thank you. My heart broke when I heard about all the evil RZ had done to these women. Thank you for STRONGLY supporting the “ Tamar’s” - sadly, there are entirely too many

[@williewiner4161]

This was the best video ever on this horrible crime. It makes me view soo many things differently. How short we come in meeting the standard that God requires of us. Only by Grace do we even dare to stand. Thanks oh so much for this was a very sobering teaching and much needed in al Churches through out the world in my opinion.

[@HM-vj5ll]

Thank you brother. Lord help us greatly.

[@jennym5310]

Completely agree re:Non-Disclosure Agreements. There is no place for them in any Christian church or organisation.

[@yurifrancisco91]

Remember, if Ravi helped you out in your faith to the Lord, it's the Lord your faith goes, not man!! What Satan meant for evil, God always uses for good to those who seek Him. The Gospel of Jesus Christ that he preached will never get distorted, the truth is always truth. God's word will always prevail even if humans preachers fall. I understand my own depravity, my own darkness, we are all in the batle to the end of our lives.. If we don't wash our laundry before God, He will expose it to the world. Let's pray for the all victims and family. Don't let another men's sins hinder or quench your faith in Jesus Christ. Only Christ is sinless. Hebrews 12:12 "Looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.

[@caroline1425yt]

I held a grudge against God many years ago- now I am blessed with discernment. RZ was NEVER my savior- Jesus Christ is.

[@ili257]

Thanks for this 💜 It is so hopeful that we are more reflecting on this type of issues and problems afflicting our daily life. I really appreciate your words from min 40 puff so necessary!

[@sarahpiaggio2693]

Another victim of Ravi is Shirley Steward, who became pregnant aged 17 in the early '70s with Ravi Zacharias’ younger brother, Ramesh. They sought advice from Ravi because they thought he was wise, but he urged her to get an abortion to cover it up partly because it would damage his ministry. She felt she didn't have any option and bore terrible consequences. Decades later, she was called a liar when she tried to expose Ravi for what he did. Hers is a voice that needs to be heard too.

[@lmarteen2778]

Yes I read an article on this..that already should have been a huge red flag that he was not a Godly man.

[@jennifereason1884]

Ravi was confused way back then, he didn't know the difference between righteousness and respectability. A righteous man would've told his brother to own his own sin and take the consequences. Such a young girl, how horrible...

[@crystaldj12]

Amazing ! You are some of the few who has pointed out the deep seated evil against women and the underdogs

[@laceelk47]

Thank you for this video... you’ve said so much that has needed to be said for a very long time!

[@greigferguson9124]

Thank you for preaching this.

[@AnneEloiseOfCNY]

Never heard of you before. But I will watch you now. So many many Zacharis commentaries! I saw your Amnon reference and wanted to hear how you put him and Ravi together... For there is a correspondance. You did such excellent work! Thank you. May RZIM become another word for cesspool.

[@clairej1807]

Thank you for this video. My heart breaks right now for the wickedness that is going on in the church.

[@richardbainbridge5258]

Powerful and helpful. Thank you so much. There are times when I feel ashamed to be a man. This is just awful thank you for convincingly pointing out where hope is found.

[@Apriluser]

Please never feel ashamed to be a man. The men in my life - husband, son, son in law, and grandsons are gems and I’m a better woman and Christian because of them. Blessings.

[@KristiLEvans1]

What Dixie said. God bless you, sweet man.

[@sheldonbanks5527]

This must have been the best rebuke of the sin that’s been at play here. It was sharp and to the heart of the matter. Very truthful. May God help us and restore those who have been victim of abuse in any way shape or form. Repent those of us who need to. Pray that the Holy Spirit convict us again of sin and unrighteousness 😢😢😢

[@Halfpriceful]

Thank you Glen. You’ve made sense of something that doesn’t make sense. Let’s have more conversations about accountability, transparency, holiness and humility. And let’s acknowledge that we all have flesh desires. And why we need Jesus!

[@terriebryan3731]

Just subscribed, your ability to show the type and shadow of the depravity of man through the examples the Lord gave us in the old testament was very impactful. To those of us who have ears to hear. May always before God keep a clear conscience, examine our hearts to see if we be in faith, for whatever is not faith is sin. Thank you for helping the body of Christ to check our hearts, lest we too fall. Prayers of peace and restoration to the ones affected by Ravi's transgression!

[@jon_doran]

Powerful message. Thank you for this Glen.

[@onecommonlifechristianmission]

God bless you for this video. May we be transparently like our Lord Jesus Christ.

[@lindac2554]

Thankyou for Standing with much maligned Women My world has shrunk because I trust less and less due to corrupt men The story of amnon has stood out to me I was ropable at david Enjoyed your exposition but especially your just and righteous emotions

[@bellyfulochelly4222]

It's a good thing to move forward trusting people less. Only God deserves our trust. I can say that there is no person on the earth whom I trust. We can love people, enjoy them, serve them, etc., without ever needing to trust them.

[@lindac2554]

@@bellyfulochelly4222 yep thanks for that True

[@rubybee1867]

You could not have put this in a better way. This is truly one of the best , brutally honest teaching/expositions of this whole sordid story. There is no doubt that this was wicked and allowed to continue for years. We pray that God will aid healing for the millions that has been hurt in the most traumatic way by this. We have to come back to living life in the fear of God. May God have mercy on His church(those who profess His Name). God demands holiness and is not swayed by ability or talent. He gave that anyway.

[@rubybee1867]

Thank you.

[@petrahope5559]

This is the first time i have come across this channel and loved your biblical approach. Nothing is new under the sun. The bible tells us of every evil in mankind's heart. I did not come across Ravi until after his death and used to love listening to his talks while I was running. He spoke about the evil in mankind's heart that was only tamed by God's absolute moral law. it was devastating to find out what evil in his own heart truly drove Ravi to lead that abusive double life. it sounds like Ravi was 'above' accountability. That alone should have sounded alarm bells with his family and organization. And yes, there must have been Absaloms, Davids and silent servants for this to have gone on.

[@eleanordavis6043]

Wow.. thank you for this video! Great comparison to Amnon and Tamar including all the characters. Really insightful.. thank you!

[@MorganJServices]

Your message is from the true nature of God's heart and the rightly dividing of His Word. This is going to speak to the hurting, wounded souls suffering in silence from abuse past & present.

[@m.r.6222]

Right on brother! This is a PERFECT response to what has happened and is happening in Christianity. I'm thankful you spoke on this issue. The Biblical explanation was mind blowing.

[@lorettaspadaccini3566]

I totally feel as angry as you do. Thanks for speaking out for victims. Our churches need to stop being weak and covering up and protecting men like this guy.

[@creativebebe]

Thank you for this breakdown from scripture and ending with the hope of all Hopes, Jesus Christ... 🙏💕

[@hope46sf]

Glen, thank you!! You are one of the few presenters on KZbin who laid out the truth about Ravi Zacharias. This brought tears to my eyes and is SO GRIEVOUS. It is so refreshing to see a Christian man show outrage over Amnon's and Ravi's wicked behavior. Thank you, sir. May God bless and keep you faithful to our Lord!!

[@greensmart7]

Thank you for speaking out for victims! And for the church in general!

[@nanettie]

“They must *own* the name Ravi Zacharias! ....While the world recoils from you in horror.” I love that. Thank you for this analysis and for these insights.

[@khaccanhle1930]

Thanks for bringing this whole story back to contrasted with Christ Kingdom. I really like how you point out that he is building his kingdom right now, and how it is fundamentally different than the kingdom of this world. Of the increase of his government there shall be no end. I choose to be an optimistic believer.

[@deirdrehelms5958]

OMG this is the best analysis and understanding of this Inhave ever heard .... not only regarding the Ravi victims but the rest of us who have been victims of ‘ministers’ No one ever really discusses Tamar...thank you It also said Ammo hated Tamar but u would be amazed at the excuses men get to escape the law here Thank you a million times over You, a man, saying all of this is healing in itself We NEED to know there are good men like you who thoroughly understand I’m not sure if you are in the US but I hope so I live in Atlanta Ga so very familiar with Ravi and have known he has two massage places.... they do not look sleazy and I had no idea the place taught Yoga until after Ravi death. I Had only known of him 2 years and I have lived in ATL for 17 so he want well known outside of certain Christian circles even though most act as if he was. That is a good thing in retrospect I am subscribing

[@reetgoodministries1273]

Excellent take Glen, thank you. Ravi was instrumental in softening my heart towards Christ, proof that God redeems the work of evil men.

[@hope46sf]

Glen, I am watching this for the third time. Having had sexual abuse, I tear up over Tamar. God has given you an understanding of the comparison between Ammon and Ravi. Thank you, again. I noticed that David personally attended Amnon, but sends a messenger to order Tamar to attend to Amnon. Then, when Absalom killed Amnon, David mourned over the loss of both A &A. I am grieved over all of it...

[@joantaylor468]

This lack towards his daughter is exposed by God apparently to warn men of their fleshly bent towards comradrie or favoritism towards men but their back towards women.

[@mrscp04]

This is the very first time I've heard someone parallel what happened with Ravi to a biblical story. Very insightful and thought provoking. Thanks. Its interesting too because Amnon being the Son of a King got away with raping his sister because nobody that is in service of a King or a person of power is brave enough to challenge questionable activities. As we do within our churches today with Leaders. This is precisely why these situations do not get nipped in the bud. The church NEEDS to stop giving these mere men who have a calling on their lives license to do as they will. The other thing is that these abusers are also bullies. Look at what happened with Lori (I forget the last name) who came out against Ravi and he crushed her and her husband.

[@lucaswilhelmmeyer6943]

You will hear more soon.

[@lucaswilhelmmeyer6943]

Hipocrates can do .

[@san8524]

Scripture illuminates and you have shed light on an age old evil, thank you for sharing.