Paul Washer: Leading Others Astray Through Ecumenical Compromise
Note: The links provided are for research purposes and do not imply endorsement.
aul Washer, a figure widely admired for his passion and conviction, is nonetheless leading many into spiritual compromise. His associations, endorsements, and ministry partnerships reveal a troubling alignment with ecumenical movements and organisations that are actively working to blur the boundaries between biblical Christianity and Roman Catholicism.
The Leonard Ravenhill Connection
Washer frequently promotes Leonard Ravenhill, a teacher whose influence has contributed to doctrinal errors and ecumenical compromise. While not an outright heretic, Ravenhill displayed poor discernment by endorsing figures such as Reinhard Bonnke, who was exposed for fabricating claims like raising the dead in South Africa.
(Source: Archived Christ for All Nations page)
Ravenhill’s teachings also fuelled the development of the heretical Lordship Salvation doctrine, rooted in the mysticism of Charles Finney. This doctrine has been weaponised by neo-Calvinists like John MacArthur and further popularised by Billy Graham, who promoted unity with the Roman Catholic Church. Washer’s endorsement of Ravenhill ties him to these dangerous theological trends.
HeartCry’s Troubling Partnership
Washer’s HeartCry Missionary Society openly collaborates with Martin Bucer Seminary, an institution presided over by Dr. Thomas Schirrmacher. Schirrmacher is a personal friend of Pope Francis, a prominent ecumenical leader, and deeply embedded in organisations such as the World Evangelical Alliance and the Global Christian Forum. These bodies are working alongside the World Council of Churches, whose agenda is to foster global religious unity under the guise of “Christian unity.”
Washer’s partnership with Martin Bucer Seminary links him to these ecumenical efforts, which are not only unbiblical but align with the spirit of antichrist.
Cross ’19 Conference and Compromise
In 2018, Washer was slated to speak at the Cross ’19 Conference, where several speakers have ties to heretical movements like Hillsong and Jesus Culture. Some key examples include:
- Trip Lee: A personal friend of Washer, Lee openly promotes Hillsong and Jesus Culture, yet Washer has never rebuked him or distanced himself.
- Thabiti Anyabwile: A Marxist-leaning speaker who embraces social justice theology.
- John Piper: Known for his connection to Rick Warren, Lectio Divina practices, and ecumenical compromises with figures like Louie Giglio and Carl Lentz.
Washer’s silence regarding the compromised ministries of these speakers highlights his growing indifference to biblical separation and doctrinal purity.
The Ecumenical Agenda
Washer’s involvement with ecumenical leaders and movements like the Martin Bucer Seminary and his tacit approval of heretical organisations point to a deeper compromise. These partnerships align Washer with the broader ecumenical agenda to unite Protestants with the Roman Catholic Church under the guise of Christian unity.
This agenda is not benign—it is a direct assault on the gospel of Jesus Christ. As Scripture warns:
“Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14)
A Call to Discernment
Paul Washer’s popularity among Bible-believing Christians makes his compromises all the more dangerous. Many followers are being unwittingly led into error by his associations and endorsements. While Washer presents himself as a staunch advocate for truth, his actions tell a different story—one of partnerships and platforms that erode the purity of the gospel and lead others toward unity with the Roman Catholic Church.
Believers must exercise discernment and refuse to follow leaders who compromise biblical truth for the sake of influence or false unity. Washer’s ministry is a cautionary tale of how even seemingly sound teachers can stray into error.
Thomas Schirrmacher & Franklin Ferreira Sponsored by HeartCry
Thomas Schirrmacher Loves Pope Francis
The Ecumenical Engagements of Thomas Schirrmacher and Their Implications for Evangelical Associations
Introduction
Thomas Schirrmacher, an influential theologian, ethicist, and the Secretary General of the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA), has been at the forefront of ecumenical efforts to foster dialogue between evangelical communities and the Roman Catholic Church. His connections to prominent Catholic leaders, particularly Pope Francis, have drawn significant attention and concern, especially among those who view such relationships as potentially compromising evangelical theological distinctives.
Equally concerning is the indirect association of evangelical leaders like Paul Washer, whose HeartCry Missionary Society has partnered with organisations tied to Schirrmacher. Such connections raise questions about the broader implications for evangelicalism’s doctrinal integrity in a time of increasing ecumenical initiatives. This article delves into Schirrmacher’s connections to Pope Francis, the role of Martin Bucer Seminary, and the potential theological consequences of these relationships.
Thomas Schirrmacher and Pope Francis
Schirrmacher’s involvement with Pope Francis is well-documented and emblematic of his commitment to ecumenical dialogue. He has met with Pope Francis on multiple occasions, and his book, Coffeebreaks with the Pope: My Encounters with Francis, details his personal interactions with the Pontiff (thomasschirrmacher.net). These meetings reflect Schirrmacher’s deep involvement in fostering relationships across denominational lines.
One notable event was the ecumenical prayer vigil in St. Peter’s Square on September 30, 2023, where Schirrmacher greeted Pope Francis (Evangelical Focus). This public display of unity with the Vatican raised concerns within parts of the evangelical community, with some organisations, such as the Spanish Evangelical Alliance, openly criticising his participation and distancing themselves from his actions. Such events underscore the delicate balance between fostering interdenominational dialogue and maintaining theological boundaries.
Furthermore, Schirrmacher’s role in the World Evangelical Alliance has brought him into close collaboration with organisations like the World Council of Churches and the Global Christian Forum. Both are widely known for their ecumenical agendas, which those who hold to scriptural purity view as compromising biblical doctrine in favour of a broader, unity-focused theology.
Schirrmacher’s Broader Ecumenical Influence
Schirrmacher’s influence extends beyond his personal meetings with Pope Francis. He serves as the president of Martin Bucer Seminary, an institution that has also been a focal point of criticism for its ecumenical engagements. The seminary’s involvement in global theological discussions, particularly with Roman Catholic institutions, has drawn scrutiny from those who hold to scriptural purity and are wary of its alignment with Catholicism.
Additionally, Schirrmacher is a senior leader of the World Evangelical Alliance and serves on the committee of the Global Christian Forum. Both organisations have been involved in initiatives that some believers in scriptural purity argue blur the lines between Protestant and Catholic theology. For instance, the World Evangelical Alliance has frequently partnered with Catholic representatives in dialogues aimed at fostering greater unity between the two traditions. Those committed to scriptural purity argue that such efforts risk promoting a false sense of doctrinal agreement, potentially undermining core Protestant convictions.
Paul Washer’s Connection to Martin Bucer Seminary
The implications of Schirrmacher’s ecumenical efforts are further complicated by the indirect involvement of Paul Washer, a prominent evangelical preacher and founder of the HeartCry Missionary Society. Washer’s ties to Martin Bucer Seminary have raised questions about his stance on ecumenism, given the seminary’s leadership under Schirrmacher. While Washer has not openly endorsed Schirrmacher’s ecumenical agenda, his partnership with an institution so closely associated with these initiatives raises concerns among those who prioritise scriptural purity.
Those committed to scriptural purity point to the theological compromises that can arise from such associations. Martin Bucer Seminary’s partnerships with Catholic organisations and Schirrmacher’s personal advocacy for Pope Francis are seen by many as indicative of a broader ecumenical agenda that conflicts with evangelical distinctives. Washer’s reputation as a staunch defender of biblical doctrine has been called into question by those who believe his affiliations send a contradictory message to his followers.
Doctrinal Implications for Evangelicalism
The growing ecumenical engagement between evangelical leaders and Roman Catholic representatives poses a significant challenge to the doctrinal integrity of evangelicalism. While fostering dialogue and understanding across denominational lines can have its merits, it must be approached with caution to avoid theological compromises.
Key areas of concern include the Roman Catholic Church’s teachings on justification, the authority of Scripture, and the role of tradition. These doctrines remain fundamentally incompatible with evangelical theology, which upholds salvation by faith alone and the sole authority of Scripture. Partnerships or associations with Catholic leaders and institutions risk legitimising theological positions that many believers in scriptural purity consider unbiblical.
Schirrmacher’s involvement in global ecumenical efforts highlights the need for discernment within evangelical communities. Leaders like Paul Washer, who have built their ministries on a foundation of biblical fidelity, must take care to distance themselves from organisations or individuals whose actions may compromise the clarity of their theological positions.
Conclusion
Thomas Schirrmacher’s ecumenical activities and his close relationship with Pope Francis highlight a growing trend towards theological compromise under the banner of unity. These developments raise significant concerns for those committed to scriptural purity, as such efforts often blur the lines between biblical truth and doctrinal error.
Paul Washer’s association with organisations tied to Schirrmacher, including the Roman Catholic-affiliated Martin Bucer Seminary, further underscores this troubling trend. Once seen as a steadfast defender of biblical truth, Washer has aligned himself with leaders and institutions that many believe compromise the gospel by promoting ecumenism. For those who hold firmly to scriptural authority, this is seen as an abandonment of his earlier principles and a betrayal of the very truths he once proclaimed to defend.
This shift has caused significant division within the evangelical community, with many questioning Washer’s theological integrity. His failure to address these associations or publicly distance himself from their ecumenical agendas has left many disillusioned and concerned about the influence he wields over unsuspecting followers.
For those committed to biblical truth, Washer’s actions represent a cautionary tale. The call to stand unwaveringly on God’s Word is clear in Scripture, and any deviation from that standard risks leading others into error. As the Apostle Paul warned in Galatians 1:9, “If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.” Washer’s affiliations raise serious questions about his commitment to this principle and challenge the faithfulness of his ministry.
Ultimately, this situation serves as a sobering reminder that the pursuit of unity must never come at the expense of biblical truth. True unity is found only in the gospel of Christ, and any movement or leader that compromises this foundation should be met with firm resistance. Those who believe in scriptural purity are called to expose error, contend for the faith, and protect the flock from being led astray. In light of Washer’s actions, his ministry must be scrutinised through the lens of Scripture, and his deviation from biblical truth must be exposed for the sake of those seeking to remain faithful to God’s Word.
Coffeebreaks with the Pope: My Encounters with Francis by Thomas Schirrmacher. (Source).Evangelical Focus article on the ecumenical prayer vigil. (Source).Analysis of Martin Bucer Seminary’s ecumenical partnerships. (Source).Statement from the Spanish Evangelical Alliance criticising Schirrmacher’s Vatican involvement. (Source).
Leonard Ravenhill, a prominent evangelist and author, is known for his critical perspectives on contemporary evangelism, including the methods employed by figures like Billy Graham. In his book America Is Too Young to Die (1979), Ravenhill expressed concerns about the effectiveness of large-scale evangelistic campaigns, stating:
“Thank God for all that the last twenty-five years have been shown us in evangelism–if it was the real thing. But when the general practitioner cannot solve the patient’s sickness, the specialist is brought in. When the evangelists have failed; when the million-dollar crusade leaves little in its wake; when the TV evangelistic show is over; when the Bible schools hang their heads and say, ‘It is not in us’; when the theologians hide their blushing heads and swing the other way in their swivel chairs; when the seminaries say, ‘We have heard of the fame of revival with our ears, but we have no formula for it’; when all these helpless ministries fail and the Nation speeds its way to hell; while the Church is looking on–let the righteous cry, and the Lord says He will hear them.” (sermonindex.net)
This passage reflects Ravenhill’s scepticism towards the impact of expensive evangelistic events, a method often associated with Billy Graham’s ministry. Additionally, in a social media post, a quote attributed to Ravenhill critiques the high costs of such gatherings:
“Billy Graham had another gathering…it cost fourteen million dollars. I’ll tell you something about the presence of God: Revival doesn’t cost…” (twitter.com)
These concerns suggest that, while Ravenhill acknowledged the efforts of evangelists like Billy Graham, he was troubled by the methods and the apparent lack of lasting spiritual impact from large-scale, costly crusades. Those who hold to scriptural purity have often found themselves at odds with the popularity of such movements, as they emphasise a return to a more genuine, biblically grounded approach to evangelism.
The Legacy of Leonard Ravenhill: A Cautionary Tale of Compromise?
Ravenhill’s promotion of various figures over the years has also drawn attention from those who believe that his influence may have led to unintended compromise within the Church. One such figure is the controversial preacher Paul Washer, whose own ministry has been linked to a growing acceptance of the ecumenical movement.
While Ravenhill’s criticisms of Graham were based on his assessment of modern evangelism, it is tragic to note that, in some circles, Ravenhill himself has been associated with figures and movements that share significant theological similarities with the very compromises he once opposed. His promotion of Paul Washer, who has been publicly linked to organisations that partner with the Catholic Church, has raised questions about the trajectory of his influence.
Those who hold to scriptural purity believe that the ‘Ravenhill rabbit hole’ has unfortunately led to a dangerous compromise, where figures once considered steadfast in their theological convictions now find themselves aligning with individuals and organisations that dilute or distort the gospel message. In particular, Paul Washer’s partnership with Martin Bucer Seminary, an institution linked to prominent ecumenical figures such as Dr. Thomas Schirrmacher, who has openly expressed admiration for Pope Francis, has led to widespread concern.
Schirrmacher’s involvement with the Roman Catholic Church and his friendship with Pope Francis have raised alarms among those who value scriptural purity. Critics argue that such associations pose a grave threat to the integrity of the gospel message. As individuals like Paul Washer continue to support and partner with figures like Schirrmacher, many fear that the theological compromise that Ravenhill once warned about is becoming an increasingly prevalent issue within evangelical circles.
Conclusion: The Fruit of Compromise
Ravenhill once famously said, “You will know them by their fruits,” urging believers to examine the lives of those in ministry and to hold them accountable according to biblical standards. Unfortunately, it appears that the fruit of some modern-day ministries—including those of Paul Washer—has been a deepening compromise with the very systems and institutions Ravenhill once opposed.
By aligning himself with figures who are involved in ecumenical and Catholic-backed organisations, Paul Washer has, in the eyes of many who hold to scriptural purity, caused significant division within the body of Christ. His endorsement of such associations has led to a blurring of doctrinal lines, making it increasingly difficult for believers to discern between truth and error.
The rise of ecumenical partnerships, including those between Paul Washer and figures like Dr. Thomas Schirrmacher, signals the ongoing dilution of the gospel message. While Ravenhill himself did not promote such compromises, his influence on figures like Washer has, unfortunately, played a part in this growing division within the Church. As those who hold to scriptural purity continue to speak out against these alliances, it becomes clear that, in the end, many roads indeed lead to Rome—a sobering reminder of the dangers of compromise in the pursuit of unity.
The end result is many roads lead to rome.