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Pigeon Religion: Holy Spirit, Is That You?: Discerning Spiritual Manipulation
Have you ever seen God move tangibly in a powerful worship service? Have you also been unmoved or unaffected by a lively sermon or worship experience? How can you discern when the Holy Spirit is authentically moving, or when a counterfeit spirit is producing manipulation? If the dove is the symbol of the authentic Holy Spirit, then the pigeon is a symbol of the counterfeit spirit. Unfortunately many of the claims to the presence of the dove among us are nothing but pigeon religion.
Don’t settle for a substitute.
Respected theologian Dr. R.T. Kendall explains eight main differences between the dove and the pigeon, and then applies each to our relationship with the Holy Spirit. Readers will come away with a refreshed sensitivity to the move of the Spirit, a renewed knowledge of who He is, and a keen perception on how to identify counterfeit spirits.
Don’t settle for a substitute.
Respected theologian Dr. R.T. Kendall explains eight main differences between the dove and the pigeon, and then applies each to our relationship with the Holy Spirit. Readers will come away with a refreshed sensitivity to the move of the Spirit, a renewed knowledge of who He is, and a keen perception on how to identify counterfeit spirits.
- GenresChristian
Audio CD
First published April 5, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
May 21, 2023
I originally thought he may be dunking on the Pentecostals the whole time but actually it’s much more graceful than that.
Kendall makes some great points identifying potential areas were churches at either end of the scale could be in possession of a counterfeit Holy Spirit - not just the loud Christians.
He uses a pigeon/dove analogy throughout the book to which I found most helpful to visualise what he is pointing out.
I enjoyed learning about small denomination differences that helped shape where “pigeon religion” can come into play. He discusses a couple different revivals and concepts not commonly discussed.
Kendall makes some great points identifying potential areas were churches at either end of the scale could be in possession of a counterfeit Holy Spirit - not just the loud Christians.
He uses a pigeon/dove analogy throughout the book to which I found most helpful to visualise what he is pointing out.
I enjoyed learning about small denomination differences that helped shape where “pigeon religion” can come into play. He discusses a couple different revivals and concepts not commonly discussed.
October 23, 2016
This was definitely not what I was expecting.
I thought that I was only going to get a treatise on how to discern false, carnal Christianity in others - errant churches and Christian ministries in particular - and I got that. However, what I also got was enlightenment on how to discern false, carnal Christianity in myself. I didn't know it before I started this book but I needed the latter just as much - perhaps more so - than that the former.
Like me, you may not think that you need this either, but chances are good that you do. As the book says so well, we are, after all, fallen sinners saved by grace in the process of sanctification daily. I have made some changes of thought and practice as a result of being challenged by this powerful and incisive book. I suspect that you will too.
And, yes, I now have even better tools in how to discern false, carnal Christianity in others, errant churches and Christian ministries before I read this surprising gem of a book.
Friend, two words of advice: Read it.
I thought that I was only going to get a treatise on how to discern false, carnal Christianity in others - errant churches and Christian ministries in particular - and I got that. However, what I also got was enlightenment on how to discern false, carnal Christianity in myself. I didn't know it before I started this book but I needed the latter just as much - perhaps more so - than that the former.
Like me, you may not think that you need this either, but chances are good that you do. As the book says so well, we are, after all, fallen sinners saved by grace in the process of sanctification daily. I have made some changes of thought and practice as a result of being challenged by this powerful and incisive book. I suspect that you will too.
And, yes, I now have even better tools in how to discern false, carnal Christianity in others, errant churches and Christian ministries before I read this surprising gem of a book.
Friend, two words of advice: Read it.
March 20, 2025
RT Kendall is one of my heroes
I find him thoughtful, humble, and bold, and this book is no exception! It was insightful and testing for me. He does an excellent job encouraging all readers into more wholeness rather than pointing fingers at things he finds wrong in Christian denominations and expressions.
The chapter on common vs sovereign grace was a life changing chapter for me. This book felt like an important invitation to be diligent and intentional
There is a lot of overlap between other books and sermons I have read/heard, but all of it was pertinent and important to the book
I find him thoughtful, humble, and bold, and this book is no exception! It was insightful and testing for me. He does an excellent job encouraging all readers into more wholeness rather than pointing fingers at things he finds wrong in Christian denominations and expressions.
The chapter on common vs sovereign grace was a life changing chapter for me. This book felt like an important invitation to be diligent and intentional
There is a lot of overlap between other books and sermons I have read/heard, but all of it was pertinent and important to the book
May 10, 2017
Just like the subtitle suggests, this is a book about discerning spiritual manipulation. I have read many books by Kendall on the Holy Spirit. Since he is a Reformed Charismatic, he offers a good and balanced view on the work and person of Holy Spirit. This book is no different l.
Just like Kendall, I too am a Reformed Charismatic. I have seen too many charismatic gifts that were used to manipulate instead of to serve people. This book highlights these dangers. Dangers like prophecy, anointing, and other spiritual gifts that can be used to manipulate.
The premise of this book is based on Kendall's view on the differences between doves and pigeons. On how they are similar yet different. Dove symbolises the Holy Spirit while pigeons symbolises the work of the flesh. This is a helpful (and even appropriate) comparison, however like any symbolism it can go too far.
I think Kendall based this book on that premise a bit too much. The comparison seems a bit stretched.
Saying that, the book is a good warning for us Charismatics. It is so easy to manipulate the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives that we might do it without realising it.
Just like Kendall, I too am a Reformed Charismatic. I have seen too many charismatic gifts that were used to manipulate instead of to serve people. This book highlights these dangers. Dangers like prophecy, anointing, and other spiritual gifts that can be used to manipulate.
The premise of this book is based on Kendall's view on the differences between doves and pigeons. On how they are similar yet different. Dove symbolises the Holy Spirit while pigeons symbolises the work of the flesh. This is a helpful (and even appropriate) comparison, however like any symbolism it can go too far.
I think Kendall based this book on that premise a bit too much. The comparison seems a bit stretched.
Saying that, the book is a good warning for us Charismatics. It is so easy to manipulate the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives that we might do it without realising it.
March 30, 2018
Highly recommended
Reading any spiritually based book can be like eating freshly cooked fish. The meat is delicious but you have to watch out for the bones! R T Kendall always provides a wealth of good meat with only a few large bones to pick around.
The analogy between a dove and a pigeon is amazing and so very true in today's religious world. So many people are so desperate for signs and gifts that they ignore the simplicity of the Gospel for overly complicated or watered down substitutes. They want to be seen instead of serving quietly.
Mr. Kendall does a masterful job of pointing out these differences.
Reading any spiritually based book can be like eating freshly cooked fish. The meat is delicious but you have to watch out for the bones! R T Kendall always provides a wealth of good meat with only a few large bones to pick around.
The analogy between a dove and a pigeon is amazing and so very true in today's religious world. So many people are so desperate for signs and gifts that they ignore the simplicity of the Gospel for overly complicated or watered down substitutes. They want to be seen instead of serving quietly.
Mr. Kendall does a masterful job of pointing out these differences.
November 29, 2023
Stopped reading at page 45, when he took part of Hebrew 11 (the faith chapter of the Bible!) to talk about how Moses (who he views as the greatest man in the Old Testament and greatest human leader ever) left Egypt "looking ahead to his reward for doing so." He then goes on to say "This proves it is not wrong to be motivated by reward. God's typical way of getting our attention is by initially appealing to our self-interest. So do not feel guilty if you are motivated by reward. That is the way God made us!"
Comparing actual scripture to actual scripture, that is not a biblical application.
The Bible is filled with mentions of how God wants our pure motives and hearts and to focus on eternal things of His kimgdom - not temporary things or ourselves. While the author does touch on our rewards not always being in this life, it is still not biblical for us to obey and follow God for our own selfish benefit and get rewarded for that.
Comparing actual scripture to actual scripture, that is not a biblical application.
The Bible is filled with mentions of how God wants our pure motives and hearts and to focus on eternal things of His kimgdom - not temporary things or ourselves. While the author does touch on our rewards not always being in this life, it is still not biblical for us to obey and follow God for our own selfish benefit and get rewarded for that.
September 2, 2022
Awful! At best the confused ramblings of an old man, at worst intentional false teaching. The first three and a half pages are good reviews later we find that many of the reviews are from his personal friends. Big red flag! He fails to see that he is guilty and unrepentant of the very pigeon religion that he is attempting to teach. He also misused Bible verses throughout to make his points. Pride and hypocrisy are not his only sins however as some of the teachings in this book are herecys. Avoid this book and auther at all costs!
October 18, 2025
4.5
R.T. Kendall does a great job in guiding believers on how to discern what is from the Holy Spirit but more so on what is not.
As a Charismatic When I first began reading I took the book to be a little basic, simple even. But this book is like layers. Kendall goes deeper and deeper the further you get into the book. The format of the book like an appetizer moving into a rich full course meal. Would definitely read again and would recommend to all Christians especially ones attending charismatic Holy Spirit focused churches.
Looking forward to checking out his other work!
R.T. Kendall does a great job in guiding believers on how to discern what is from the Holy Spirit but more so on what is not.
As a Charismatic When I first began reading I took the book to be a little basic, simple even. But this book is like layers. Kendall goes deeper and deeper the further you get into the book. The format of the book like an appetizer moving into a rich full course meal. Would definitely read again and would recommend to all Christians especially ones attending charismatic Holy Spirit focused churches.
Looking forward to checking out his other work!
December 6, 2022
I found much of Pigeon Religion encouraging and insightful. However, I think it lasted about three chapters too long. It felt like the publisher demanded a specific length and the content was added just to create that length.
I would recommend the read because of the value of the beginning content. Don’t tune out of or skip the final chapters, just be aware that they may or may not contain substantial information for you.
I would recommend the read because of the value of the beginning content. Don’t tune out of or skip the final chapters, just be aware that they may or may not contain substantial information for you.
May 28, 2017
it is okay, but based a lot on anecdotes
August 4, 2025
A must read! Kendall’s life experience and education, as well as his giftedness to communicate will challenge your mind and heart!!!
February 19, 2017
I usually love his books, but this one felt a bit grumpy and judgmental to me.
July 20, 2016
Pigeon is th nasty bird, dove is th beautiful one. Pigeon religion: a misplaced lifestyle instead of th one God wants you to have. Pigeons are aggressive, doves mild mannered, even shy. Pigeons don't mate for life , doves do. Other than good advice for a fulfilling lifestyle, this book has thoughtful discussion in how church peopl can go wrong, how to avoid some misconceptions , and thus , keep th gospel message alive carefully ,above all.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews