The Bible and Generational Curses
by William Shifflett
For more on Generational Curses,
see Pastor Shifflett's book Friendly
Fire. Excerpts, more details,
and a
video trailer are on the
Friendly Fire page.
The book is
now available from Amazon and
Tate Publishing and
as an e-book
in theAmazon Kindle Store at both
the
US and UK sites.
Many people assume that the popular teachings on Generational Curses are a sound Bible doctrine. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact it is surprising how little the Bible says about this belief that many people find so vital and liberating. Did you know:
- That Paul, Peter, James, John, and even Jesus never mention this important doctrine?
- That the words Generation and curse never appear in the same passage of the Bible and only once do the two words appear in the same book?
- That in many passages used by proponents the words translated curse or curses are actually different words in the original Hebrew sometimes within the same verse?
- That supporters of the teaching also believe Christians should not be ill, or financially strapped, that Jesus suffered in hell, and that words have creative power that rivals God?
- That the doctrine is filled with contradictions and inconsistencies?
Well each and every one of the assertions above is true. Consider point three above related to two passages closely linked to the doctrine. Genesis 12:3, and Numbers 23:8
I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you; Genesis 12:3
How shall I curse whom God has not cursed? Numbers 23:8
I have highlighted the appropriate words to illustrate that they are different Hebrew words. And not only are they different words within the verse but the words in Numbers are different from the words in Genesis. So we have four different Hebrew words translated into forms of one English word. While it is true they are related it nevertheless illustrates how easily we can fall into error in this discussion if we do not note that subtle distinction, and proponents do not make or acknowledge that distinction.
Other articles by William Shifflett about Generational Curses:
The Fallacy of Generational Curses (Pastor's Article of 12/18/2009)
Generational Curses and the Grapes of Wrath
Confessing Generational Curses and Iniquities
The Lies of Generational Curse Deliverance
Generational Curses and Repeated Sins
