The Supernatural Power of a Transformed Mind: Access to a Life of Miracles

by Bill Johnson, Dick Mills (Foreword), Randy Clark (Foreword)

THE SUPERNATURAL POWER OF A TRANSFORMED MIND! You can live a supernatural life. In fact, moving in the spiritual realm should be as routine as prayer, worship and reading Scripture. It is part of what Jesus purchased for us on the Cross! Healing, deliverance and signs-and-wonders are an inheritance for all followers of Jesus Christ. The Supernatural Power of a Transformed Mind teaches you how to remove the blinders of religious limitation to see your own life changed, the lost redeemed and communities transformed. You too can move from an intellectual faith and tap into an abundance of miracle-working authority, unleashing the power of God's glory.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Christianity, Christian Non Fiction, Christian Living, Religion

176 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2004

About the author

Bill Johnson and his wife Brenda (Beni) Johnson are the Senior Pastors of Bethel Church in Redding, California. Johnson is a fifth generation pastor.

Johnson was born in Minnesota in 1951 and became a Christian as a young child. Soon after, Johnson read seven books on prayer, which significantly affected his perspective and subsequent ministry.

Bill Johnson and his wife have three children: Eric, Brian and Leah.

Johnson speaking at a conference
Bill Johnson and Beni (Brenda) began as singles pastors under his father at Bethel. In 1979, they became senior pastors of Mountain Chapel in Weaverville, California.

While pastoring in Weaverville, Johnson attended a 1987 conference led by John Wimber, founder of the Vineyard Church Movement. According to Johnson "A number of healings and manifestations broke out and I didn't know what to do with it. I didn't object to it, I wasn't opposed to it; I just didn't know how to pastor it in a way that it would continue and increase".

In 1995, Johnson attended the Toronto Blessing revival at the Toronto Airport Vineyard church. Johnson relates: "In Toronto I said, 'Lord, if You touch me again I will never change the subject.' So I went up for prayer every time it was offered. I didn't have anything dramatic happen, but I came home and said, 'I am going to give the rest of my life to this.'"

In February 1996, after 17 years of leading the Weaverville church, the Johnsons were invited to become senior pastors of Bethel. Today Johnson describes Bethel as a church where "everything we do either fuels revival or is fueled by revival." Under his leadership, Bethel left the Assemblies of God in 2006 to become a nondenominational charismatic church.

According to a recent book written by Johnson, "Face to Face with God", Bethel is "a church where supernatural encounters with God happen regularly, miracles are common, and the congregation has an infectious passion for spiritual growth." The church has approximately 1,500 members, and a School of Supernatural Ministry.

Their Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry has 1,200 students enrolled with over 370 from other countries. Johnson leads a network of churches dedicated to global, multi-generational revival, Global Legacy. Johnson has written a number of books and travels extensively as a featured revival conference speaker. Johnson is also involved with the Northern California Revival Fellowship, a group of north Californian pastors committed to revival.

Source: Wikipedia

Reviews

[Jessica · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book is a hard one for me to review. Not because I don't have anything to say. I actually wrote a thirty page critique (what? I'm verbose) of TSPoaTM when I first read it because my church had begun glomming on to Bill Johnson's teachings in a big way, and I thought these new fangled ideas deserved some scrutiny. I didn't give this book one star because it is poorly written and uninteresting. To the contrary, it's an easy read and anything but same old, same old. However, in my opinion, the thing TSPoaTM is supposed to do--interpret the Bible responsibly and accurately--it does very, very badly. I cannot emphasize that enough. Johnson's hermeneutic is creative, yes, but ultimately ridiculous, as a little bit of critical thinking will bear out.

The first of the book's issues is the misinterpretation of words in the Bible. One of the foundational verses for TSPoaTM, which is referred to again and again, is Romans 12:2: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” From this Johnson develops his theology of "proving" the will of God through signs and wonders. Now this would make sense, except that in the context of this verse, "prove" does not mean what the book thinks it means. "Prove" in this verse does not mean "to demonstrate" but "to verify." The NIV translates the word as "to test," and the ESV concurs: "that by testing you may discern what is the will of God." So the point of Romans 12:2 is not that we should demonstrate God's will as though we already know it through miracle and spectacle, but that we should discern and discover what God's will is in the first place. We have to remember the Bible wasn't written in English, so the ambiguities we may find in the NKJV, for instance (e.g., "prove" having multiple meanings), are probably not present in the Greek.This is a critical reading error for one of Johnson's main proof texts that could have been easily avoided by checking out other translations.

And it isn't the only like mistake in the book. On page 134, Johnson cites Hebrews 5:14 to show that Christians need to have their senses trained to discern evil--their physical senses. Johnson expounds on how sight, touch, hearing, etc. can help Christians sense spiritual warfare and demonic attack. For instance, one time Johnson noticed that part of the room felt cold, and he was able to grasp through his apprehension of coldness that demonic activity was afoot. I hear the Ghostbusters use similar techniques. (Okay, that was snarky. I apologize. ) The problem with this reasoning is that Hebrews5:14 isn't talking about physical senses at all; it's talking about spiritual senses. The ESV puts it this way: “But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.” The senses Bill Johnson mistakes for being touch, sight, hearing, etc. are our senses of discernment. The Bible is not telling us that a sign of maturity is looking to our bodies to distinguish good from evil but to practice spiritual discernment. This is another rookie reading mistake. I can't help but think TSPoaTM would have benefited greatly from some peer review.

Another major issue in TSPoaTM is the distortion of biblical stories. One of the ideas Johnson espouses is that the gates of heaven and hell are in people's minds (he gets here by very circular reasoning, btw) and that Christians are to function under an open heaven as the house of God. If you don't get what that means, you're not alone. The illustration the book provides is that of Jacob dreaming of a ladder stretching from earth to heaven with angels ascending and descending on it. You might know that story--the one where God agrees to be Jacob's God in a dream. Johnson extrapolates way beyond the biblical record when he teaches that all Christians have personal ladders to heaven and that angels descend to help us with supernatural tasks and ascend once those tasks have been completed. Unfortunately, many Christians have empty ladders because they are not stepping out in faith to perform signs and wonders. This is...wow. Where does he get this stuff? In John 1:51 Jesus explains that *He* is Jacob's ladder and the connecting point between earth and heaven. That's it. Nothing about angels being needed to do miracles, or personal ladders that grow abandoned and empty from lack of use. All that detail is the product of an extremely fertile imagination. Johnson works similar magic on Jesus' teachings about the leaven of Herod and the Pharisees and Jesus calming the storm. TSPoaTM has no compunction about going beyond the text, and there is no biblical basis given for why Johnson's fantastical ideas are true.

I could go on and on, and I have, but I think I'll stop there. TSPoaTM is a good exercise in recognizing bad hermeneutics. I would actually recommend that anyone interested in hermeneutics read it through with some mature and faithful Christians to practice discernment. Not all theology is created equal, and I think if more Christians were taught how to weigh a pastor's ideas against the Word of God, there'd be a lot more truth being preached and a lot less crazy being practiced. I was told, after voicing my opinion about TSPoaTM, that I shouldn't think so hard about it and instead just soak in the goodness. Please don't do that. Shutting off your brain will get you in a world of trouble. We have to love God with our minds as well as everything else, and a wasted and atrophied mind does not and cannot glorify God. Test everything. Hold fast to what is good.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Supernatural Power of a Transformed Mind" has ushered in a season of God challenging and leading me into greater obedience to His command to bring the kingdom here on earth and into greater levels of servanthood of Jesus. The gospel entails both truth and power and living without the power that we're given is akin to living in poverty when we have access to infinite riches. I would highly recommend this book to anyone seeking to grow in their obedience to God and anyone looking to learn more about the real Christian life.

[Pagika Benjamin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Almost done with this one. The wealth of information found in this book is INSANE! Here you will discover the life the Lord intended for His children to live. I'm savoring this book. Reading it nice and slow.

[Han · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is from “The Supernatural Power of a Transformed Mind.” By Bill Johnson of Bethel Church.

Bill argues in this chapter “revelation and understanding” that we need “new revelation to renew our minds.”

First, you may be thinking “this sounds familiar.” It is. Romans 12:2 teaches that we are to renew our minds. The question becomes, how do we do this?

Well, Jesus said in John 17:17 “sanctify them by your word; your word is truth.”

We need to ask the question “what is the source of renewal and truth?” Scripture answers this and tells us it is the word of God- the Bible. All Christians both young and old have access to the same scripture. There are no secret mysteries that some Christians know and others are left in the dark about. We have the Bible as our guide and authority on all matters that the Lord desires for us to know. The scriptures are truth and a primary means in which God uses to sanctify us.

However, Bill expresses that there are realms of mystery that we must discover. Secret knowledge that we must pursue “recklessly” (page 73) he tells us that there is revelation that only some Christians have access to if they pursue it by faith.

So, according to Bill how does a Christian grow? (How is a Christian sanctified.) According to Bill we “chase after revelation.” (Page 72) He expresses the reason some Christians are not getting personal revelation is because “we don’t work for it or hunger after it”... “faith moves the economy of heaven. It is the currency of heaven.” (Page 72)
He tell us on Page 69 the way to attract revelation is to obey what we already know to be true. He argues if we don’t obey the revelation we already have then God will not continue to give more revelation. Bill said “until he walked in obedience, he wasn’t going to get more. {revelation}” (Page 70)

Bill also argues that revelation sets boundaries and if you lack faith your revelation won’t operate how it’s supposed to.

This reminds me of Moroni 10:4 in the Book of Mormon which says “... if ye ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth unto you.” The BoM uses this verse to encourage potential converts to “pray if the BoM is true, and when you have enough faith and obey this text - you will receive revelation that this is true.” (Also known as the burning in the bosom.) Bill does the same thing as the Mormons. He can now blame your lack of faith and obedience as the reason why you don’t get new revelation.
On Page 73 Bill says “That opening of the heart determines the level of revelation we receive.” Essentially, if you lack “hunger” “faith” “obedience” “desire” or you do not “pursue” you will not get revelation. You will not have access to the mysteries of God. Bill can then use this argument to discredit someone who denies new special revelation by saying “they lack obedience and faith.”

*edit: for clarification Bill does not quote the BoM. I’m using it to show how the language is similar and how it’s a similar framework.*

—————


“The Supernatural Power of a Transformed Mind” by Bill Johnson of Bethel Church.

I am reading through Bills book and every page is shocking. However, I want to point something out.

The context of this passage is “Recognizing Revelation...” it can be found on page 69.

Essentially, Bill is arguing that “knowledge” is really *new* extra biblical revelation. (Meaning a revelation not in scripture, given apart from Gods word, to our minds.) And that if you have “understanding” you will acquire revelation. He expresses that those who do not have a strong support structure “pillar truths in the gospel” will not be able to recognize revelation as easily. (It’s also important to note earlier in the book he argues the gospel is *signs and wonders* a *gospel of power.*) He continues by expressing “a man of understanding” (someone who believes God gives personal new special revelation) “accepts Gods additions and DOESN’T QUESTION THEM.” (Emphasis mine)

This is vital to understand. Bill has essentially argued that if you are a person who believes in new special revelation and you have “understanding that God gives revelation” then you will not question whatever revelation is brought to your mind. Bill basically tells people to trust their minds. He does not tell you that “knowledge” comes from the fear of the Lord, and that scripture contains the only revelation of who God is. Instead, Bill tells us there is revelation *outside* of Gods Word, and that we are to *believe it* without questioning it. He’s also saying to gain more understanding *is to have more revelation.* He does not tell you to read scripture, but seek out revelation apart from the bible. Bill tells us to treasure that revelation, and if you do “that builds a foundation for greater revelation.”

Friends, this is not Christianity. Your heart is deceptively wicked. (Jeremiah 17:9) Do not trust it, look to the Holy scriptures.

[Vince Guerra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic, concise training manual for prayer. Generations of complacency have given ground to the Devil, ground he knows he's powerless to retain, if only God's people will believe in, and exercise their authority in Christ. This book will give you practical methods for taking the fight to the enemy's doorstep, as God calls us to. Johnson's detractors, those who expect little in the realm of supernatural breakthrough, get just that. Those who step out and believe God for big audacious wins, are enjoying being a part of His victories. I, for one, am in. If you'd like to be as well, pick up this book.

[Lucas Leite · Rating 1 out of 5]

Johnson comes out of the closet and presents his libertarian free-will cards (which he didn’t want to show in his first book). The notion of co-laboring and his section on desires are both deeply troubling to me—I don’t believe they fit with the biblical account.

[Christopher-James Neethling · Rating 2 out of 5]

Same as with his other books, it misses the Gospel.

[Trent · Rating 2 out of 5]

I hear much about Bill Johnson and his beliefs are very out there for me. As I travel the world I have seen things that go far beyond what my conservative mind could handle, but out-right healing is something I have yet to see, and I do hope to. I trust God and always ask him to expand my beliefs and if there is the ability to do things that Bill talks about then I know God will let it be known to me. Until then I will continue to walk and trust in Him more each day and ask him for more growth.

[R.W. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book.

But why must Queer people and relationships come up negatively in almost every book I've read about healing ministry? God includes us, too, and we are not being disobedient to Scripture. (That is, I realize, going to be a long discussion for most pentecostal folk.)

I am learning what it means to be a son of God because I belong to Jesus. I just wish my testimony wasn't dismissed completely by two sentences buried near the back of the book.

[Paul Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful - inspiring and with profound insight that leads into unlimited heavenly inheritance and resources

[Olivia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think it’s a common theme to want to understand Romans 12:2 but also to practically put it into action. And this is what this book did. I read it a time where I barely understood that my mind was a key tool & player in salvation. I was busy doing things to be saved. i.e. church going, devotions, fasting etc. Nothing is wrong about these practices. However, for me they kept me surviving in Christianity but not thriving and living the “abundant life”. This book got me on track of how the mind is where it all happens. After all, as a man thinks, so is he. So in essence, I learnt how to actualize the new norm called “salvation” & start living it out.

[Lee Murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bill Johnson is the senior pastor of Bethel Church in Redding, CA. To understand the church and it’s practices, you need to read and understand Bill Johnson.

This book is the sequel to When Heaven Invades Earth and is amazing in its scope. His understanding of Scripture is broad and challenging , but that doesn’t mean it is incorrect or in error. It is a reclaiming of lost territory.

This book is a step by step explanation of Johnson’s core beliefs, each chapter building on the previous one. If you want to understand the focus of Bethel, and grow your faith, then this book is for you!

[Debbie Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most informative and inspiring books on the subject I’ve read in a very long time. There have been many opinions expressed about Bill Johnson but this book gives me a greater appreciation for his many years of experience and the devotion he has to representing his saviour well. Having a transformed mind is one thing, but knowing how to use it is a whole other ball game. This book will inspire, challenge and may possibly revolutionise your life as a believer. I certainly want to say Yes Lord!

[Leandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very powerful book! As a Christian who does believe in miracles and the supernatural, I realized I have been lacking in my belief and my purpose in that realm.

I am inspired and challenged to live the life we have been called to live and not be afraid to walk as Jesus walked. We are co-labors with Christ.

The dreaming chapter really spoke to me...that God really does want us to dream and reach for our desires.

[Leslie Yong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Praise for the book, so wonderfully written. It is inspiring and totally change my mindset as to what is a normal Christian. If we’re not living a life of seeing wonders and miracles happening, then have been deceived into living a compromise Christian life of abnormalities. For we are supposed to become the dwelling place of God, as a gateway for God to manifest His wonders and miracles here on earth.
Readers are challenged to accessing to a life of Miracles.

[Paul Shotsberger · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good introduction to the supernatural life that’s possible for the Christian believer. It is mostly built on Scripture and stories from those at Bethel. What I don’t care for in these pastor books is that there’s little sense of what’s come before, especially in terms of other writers. There are almost no other books footnoted, other than his own. He makes some excellent points, but as was said of Hindu (Indian) mathematics of previous centuries, it is a mixture of pearls and shells.

[Desarae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Most of this was review for me, but it is excellent material that is great to meditate on and revisit.
*Listened to the audio book, and the narrator sounded too much like a robotic voice, it made it hard to listen and connect.

[Blake Zapara · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I've ever read

[Daniel Park · Rating 4 out of 5]

Challenging story to love God better in light of unbelief.

[Chelle Protzman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great book. My favorite part was the idea of building off of what already is happening and leaving the next generation to do even greater things than we have seen.

[Leslie Wiewel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second read. First was about 10 years ago.

[Diane Melville]

Great suggestions and study however some not practical. Lots of fluffing up of a pillow but no where to land

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the type of meaty book that one underlines a whole bunch! Lots of good info regarding the powerful Christian life.

[Sebastian Vera · Rating 3 out of 5]

Un tremendo libro para aprender a renovar nuestra mente y entendimiento a fin de abrir las puertas a lo sobrenatural

[G Vignesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice

[Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been spiritually uplifted

[Candace Cauble · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I will recommend it to anyone who wants to go deeper in their relationship with God!

[Sam Omokan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Power is part of the normal life of a believer on Jesus.

[Chris Wozny · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book has been such an encouragement....


to never have anything to do with Bethel and the "ministry" taking place there and to help people see the poison of this theology.

[Selah Steinle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Totally transformed my mind.