The Holly Pivec Podcast

Latest Episodes:

EP 33 |The Hard Work of Heart Work: Why NAR Shortcuts Fuel Anxiety May 29, 2026

Show notes

Is the "quick fix" culture of modern church movements actually hurting your mental health? In this clip, we break down why true biblical peace isn’t a supernatural "zap," but a daily process of heart work—and how movements like the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) might be driving people into anxiety and dependency.

If you’ve ever felt exhausted trying to manufacture supernatural experiences or control things outside your hands, this video is for you. We dive deep into the difference between coping mechanisms and true sanctification.

Key Moments in This Video

00:00 Intro: deception, shortcuts, and false teaching

01:10 The “hard work of heart work” vs instant spiritual fixes

04:22 False hope, anxiety, depression, and coping mechanisms

09:25 Dependency on supernatural experiences and emotional highs

12:06 NAR promises, impossible expectations, and control

17:54 Spiritual warfare distractions and losing focus on the gospel

21:27 Dominion theology and “another gospel”

True spiritual growth takes time. In this discussion, Mark Baker unpacks Chapter 4 ("The Hard Work of Heart Work") and Chapter 8 of his book Re-Minded, exposing how the obsession with signs, wonders, and immediate deliverance can create a toxic loop of emotional highs and crashes. By shifting our focus from what we can't control to what we can, we find the sound mind that God actually promised us.

Subscribe for more discussions on spiritual discernment and biblical truth!

#SpiritualDiscernment #MentalHealth #NAR #BiblicalTruth #Sanctification #ChristianPodcast #FaithAndMentalHealth

EP32 | How False Teachings Damage Your Mental Health: A Biblical Perspective May 14, 2026

Show notes

Is your spiritual life causing more anxiety than peace?

In this episode, I'm with biblical counselor and author Mark Baker to expose the overlooked link between false teachings—specifically within the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR)—and mental health struggles like depression and chronic guilt.

If you’ve ever felt like you "weren't performing enough" for God, or felt trapped by the pressure to hear a "word from God" for every decision, this conversation is for you. We dive deep into why subjective, feelings-based Christianity often leads to a "breaking point" and how you can reclaim a sound mind through the objective truth of Scripture.

In this episode, we discuss:

Biblical Counseling vs. Secular Psychology: Explaining different frameworks

The NAR Mental Health Fallout: Why doctrines like "Heaven on Earth" and "Modern Apostles" often result in hopelessness.

The Rise of "Christian" Mysticism: The subjective mystical practices, like "grave soaking" and "trips to heaven" (via guided visualizations), that are infiltrating the church

Reclaiming a Sound Mind: The vital connection between self-discipline and mental clarity (2 Timothy 1:7).

The "Crack" in the System: How catching one lie or false prophecy can be the first step toward spiritual freedom.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro: Reconnecting with Mark Baker.

01:02 – What is biblical counseling and why is it unique?

04:02 – The secularization of pastoral care in modern seminaries.

08:47 – How false teaching creates an "unsound mind."

13:26 – Does NAR attract or create mental health issues?

16:45 – The burden of "performance-based" Christianity.

23:22 – How one "crack" via a false prophecy can lead to freedom.

28:10 – The danger of "subjectivity" and the "Touch not the anointed" trap.

31:25 – Understanding the role of self-discipline in a sound mind.

34:58 – The hard work of "heart work": Avoiding spiritual shortcuts.

Resources Mentioned:

Mark Baker’s Book: Re-Minded: How to Renew Your Mind, Quiet Your Soul, and Transform Your Life - https://www.amazon.com/Re-Minded-Renew-Your-Quiet-Transform/dp/B0DDP78BK6

Have you experienced anxiety or spiritual burnout from these types of teachings? Share your story in the comments below. We’re building a community of truth-seekers and would love to hear from you.

Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE and hit the 🔔to stay updated on our latest deep dives into theology and discernment.

#HollyPivec #MarkBaker #NAR #BiblicalCounseling #MentalHealth #Discernment #SpiritualAbuse #SoundMind #ChristianPodcast

EP31 | Prophecy or Prop: How Magicians Replicate Modern "Miracles" Apr 30, 2026

Show notes

Is it a miracle from God, a manifestation of the demonic, or just a clever trick?

In this deep-dive interview, professional magician and mentalist Terry Holley pulls back the curtain on the "signs and wonders" appearing in modern movements like the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR). From gold dust and "glory clouds" at Bethel to the secrets of "words of knowledge," Terry explains how mentalism and cold reading can perfectly replicate what many claim to be supernatural.

We also tackle the tough theological questions: Did Pharaoh’s magicians actually perform miracles? Can Satan control the weather? And why do so many Christians give the enemy more credit than the Bible does?

If you’ve ever wondered if what you’re seeing on stage is real or just "extrasensory deception," this episode is for you.

IN THIS EPISODE:

Mentalism vs. Prophecy: How "Question & Answer" routines mimic prophetic words.

The "Glory Cloud" Demystified: Comparing modern church manifestations to Las Vegas illusions.

Theology of the Miraculous: Why creating life (snakes and blood) is a boundary only God crosses.

Occam’s Razor & The Supernatural: Understanding the 4 natural forces before jumping to "miracle" conclusions.

Demons & Objects: The logic (and hilarity) of "demon-possessed" chocolate chip cookies.

CHAPTERS:

0:00 - Introduction: Can magic explain so-called "miracles"?

03:15 - The Q&A Routine: How mentalists "read minds."

08:45 - Gold Dust & Snow: David Copperfield’s secrets.

14:20 - Pharaoh’s Magicians: Miracle or sleight of hand?

22:10 - Signs and Wonders: A Greek word study.

30:35 - Can Satan control the weather? (Lessons from Job)

38:50 - The "Supernormal" vs. The "Supernatural."

45:15 - Debunking "demonized" objects and screaming wood.

52:40 - The $25,000 Challenge for a real miracle.

58:20 - Final thoughts: Staying within biblical boundaries.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Book: Astrology and Psychic Phenomena by Terry Holley.

James Randi’s Alpha Project: How two magicians fooled the scientific community.

CONTACT TERRY: terry_holley@hotmail.com (For church seminars/performances and questions).

Do you think he’s being too cynical, or is this the discernment the church needs today? Let us know in the comments.

TWO CORRECTIONS SUBMITTED BY TERRY HOLLEY:1. David Hoy's "Hurling the Headlines" is not a book, but it is a chapter found in his booklet, "The Bold and Subtle Miracles of Dr. Faust."2. I accidentally stated that I sent predictions to David Hoy. I should have stated that I sent them to Gary North. Hoy passed in 1981. My correspondence with North was in the 1990s.

#Discernment #Apologetics #NewApostolicReformation #Magic #Theology #TerryHolley #SpiritualWarfare #Mentalism

EP30 | Signs, Wonders, or Sleight of Hand? A Magician's View of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) Apr 16, 2026

Show notes

Is it a miracle, or just a really good trick? In this revealing interview, 55-year veteran magician Terry Holley pulls back the curtain on the "supernatural" claims of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR).

While many believers are amazed by "words of knowledge" and "miraculous" powers, Terry reveals how professional mentalism, data mining, and theatrical illusions can replicate these exact experiences. We explore the historical deception of figures like William Branham and Paul Cain, and the danger of building theology on anecdotal stories that crumble under investigation. If you've ever questioned the "Glory Cloud" or how a prophet knew personal details about your life, this video provides the technical and biblical clarity you need.

Inside this investigation:

Mentalism 101: How performers "read minds" using natural techniques.

The Andre Kole Legacy: Why Jesus’ miracles were impossible to fake.

Nailing Jello to a Wall: The truth about levitation stories and "miracle" reports.

The "Hot Reading" Scandal: Why some modern prophets are just data mining.

Biblical Discernment: How to distinguish between theatrical magic and occult practices.

CHAPTERS

0:00 – Intro: Why interview a Christian magician?

1:25 – Terry Holley 55-year background in magic

4:45 – What is Mentalism? (Mind reading vs. tricks)

7:20 – Andre Kole and the investigation of Jesus’ miracles

17:15 – The difference between theatrical magic and the occult

19:10 – Why magicians use equipment (debunking demonic power)

21:05 – Magician vs. Illusionist: Why some churches prefer "illusionist"

23:30 – "Magic in the Bible": Hebrew and Greek word studies

26:50 – Investigating the Kansas City Prophets and Bob Jones

30:15 – Correspondence with John Piper and Wayne Grudem

38:15 – The "Flying Reindeer" argument: Why we need proof

43:50 – The Levitation Myth: Investigating supernatural claims

50:15 – Observations on Craig Keener’s Miracles book volumes

53:40 – Paul Cain and "Hot Reading" techniques

56:10 – The "Sick Cat" experiment: How easy it is to fool people

1:02:30 – Data mining and modern prophets (Shawn Bolz)

Help us spread the truth:

If this video helped you understand the mechanics of deception, please Like and Subscribe.

Share this video with anyone currently involved in NAR circles to help them test what they are seeing against the truth.

#NAR #Prophecy #Mentalism #BethelRedding #BiblicalDiscernment #Apologetics #FaithHealing #Discernment

EP29 | Francis Chan’s Public Apology: Does It Go Far Enough? | With Doug Geivett Apr 02, 2026

Show notes

On March 6, 2026, Francis Chan released a public apology titled "Tremble at His Words, Be Careful with Your Own." In it, he addresses his associations with leaders in the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR), including Mike Bickle and IHOPKC. But does this apology truly address the root of the problem, or does it sidestep the real issues and dangers?

In this special audio-only episode of the podcast, Holly Pivec and Doug Geivett (joining from the Florida Everglades!) break down Chan’s letter and the accompanying statement from his network elders.

We dive deep into:

The "Integrity" Gap: Was Mike Bickle a man of integrity who "fell," or was the foundation flawed from the start?

"Fooled Hundreds of Times": Analyzing Chan’s admission of a lack of discernment and what that means for his role as a globally influential leader.

The Elder’s Defense: Why claiming "refutation" of NAR accusations is factually incorrect and misleading to the church.

The Prophetic Movement: Why a focus on character scandals ignores the deeper crisis of fallible prophecy and theological error.

A Call to Action: Will Chan ever give us the biblical criteria for evaluating prophets?

Resources Mentioned:

-Francis Chan’s Letter: Tremble at His Words, Be Careful with Your Own (Crazy Love Ministries)

https://www.crazylove.org/articles/tremble-at-his-words-be-careful-with-your-own

-Holly’s Blog: hollypivec.com

-The Implosion of IHOPKC: https://www.hollypivec.com/blog/implosionofihopkc

-Books by Holly Pivec and Doug Geivett: Counterfeit Kingdom, God's Super-Apostles, and more.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=holly+pivec+and+doug+geivett&crid=2B4DQ2AUNRY85&sprefix=holly+pivec+and+doug+geivett%2Caps%2C216&ref=nb_sb_noss_2

Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & Background on Francis Chan

04:46 – Framing the Apology: "Those who no longer walk in integrity"

15:10 – The avoidance of addressing "false teaching" in the apology

21:47 – The stunning admission of being "fooled hundreds of times"

35:34 – Analyzing the Elders’ Statement

52:40 – Can a "legitimate" prophet be fallible?

1:10:00 – Unity vs. Truth: Final thoughts and closing wisdom

Stay Connected: If you found this analysis helpful, please Like and Subscribe to stay updated on our latest critiques and theological discussions.

#FrancisChan #NAR #MikeBickle #IHOPKC #Discernment #Theology #NewApostolicReformation #HoldFast #HollyPivec #DougGeivett

EP 28 | NAR and the AG: Why Assemblies of God Pastors Must Draw a Line in the Sand (Part 2) Mar 19, 2026

Show notes

The ongoing collision with NAR has forced a moment of truth for the Assemblies of God, requiring a clear and final decision on whether it will protect its Pentecostal roots or succumb to apostolic infiltrators.* See a note of correction and clarification from Aaron Mapes below.*In this deep-dive interview, an AG pastor pulls back the curtain on how "Latter Rain" doctrines and modern NAR theology are covertly reshaping Pentecostal churches—and why the stakes for the AG have never been higher.From the controversial "offices" of modern-day apostles and prophets to the devastating impact of "fallible prophecy," Pastor Aaron Mapes and I explore why AG leaders must draw a line in the sand. We discuss the historical link between the 1940s Latter Rain movement and Jim Jones, the theological danger of the "always God’s will to heal" doctrine, and why Pastor Aaron has chosen not to use Bethel Music to protect his congregation.If you’ve ever wondered why your favorite worship song, or a "prophetic word" you've heard, feels like it’s leading to a different gospel, this conversation is for you. Key Topics Discussed:The historical condemnation of "Latter Rain" doctrines by the AG in 1949.Why Jim Jones is a sobering warning for modern charismatic movements.The "fallible prophecy" trap: Can a true prophet be wrong?Why Bethel’s theology is creating a "wrecking yard" of deconstructed faith.The practical reasons why Pastor Aaron has banned Bethel Music in his AG church (and other AG churches should do the same)How to identify "bad fruit" in a movement before it leads to spiritual and sexual abuse.Timestamps:0:00 – Introduction: NAR and the AG04:15 – The 1940s Latter Rain Movement & Jim Jones12:30 – Why the AG Issued New Position Papers on Apostles & Prophets18:45 – The Dangers of "Fallible Prophecy" (Deuteronomy 18)25:10 – Shipwrecked Faith: When "God’s Will to Heal" Fails33:20 – Why We Stopped Singing Bethel Music in Our Church41:15 – The "Cover-Up Culture" and Biblical Discernment50:40 – Truth Over Relationship: How to Talk to People in the AG About NAR58:20 – Final Thoughts: A Bigger Vision for the GospelResources Mentioned:Counterfeit Kingdom by Holly Pivec & Doug Geivett - https://a.co/d/0hncwff4God’s Super-Apostles by Doug Geivett and Holly Pivec- https://a.co/d/0aURrk3lA/G Pastors Concerned about NAR (New Apostolic Reformation) Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1299878327294092/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBTAre you seeing NAR influence in your local Pentecostal or other type of church?#AssembliesOfGod #NAR #BethelChurch #ChristianDiscernment #NewApostolicReformation #TheologyMatters #Pentecostal #biblicaltruth A Correction and Note of Clarification from Aaron Mapes:"Thanks, Holly! It was a pleasure to join you for this podcast! I need to make a public correction. In the interview, I stated Jim Jones was an A/G (Assemblies of God) minister instead of Independent Assemblies of God International minister. Very similar in history, relationship and doctrine, but separate organizations with cooperative ties and relationships as well as a shared name and some shared roots, as was the case with many early pentecostal churches and movements as they were emerging. The IAOGI was born out of the Scandanavian Assemblies of God." See Aaron's full note, with additional information about Jim Jones, on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.mapes.9/posts/pfbid0248NMNZNxixLyzLVNCJfZAMLFFPfuYXsBKcAgiFDyhZ6adHMGP5Cd3VrZYYYNJrRtl

EP 27 | NAR and the AG: The NAR Incursion into the Assemblies of God (Part 1) Mar 06, 2026

Show notes

Is the New Apostolic Reformation covertly reshaping your church? Join me and 5th-generation Assemblies of God pastor Aaron Mapes for a deep dive into the "smuggling" of NAR doctrine into classical Pentecostalism.

While the boundaries between NAR and Pentecostalism have become increasingly blurred, the differences are critical for those concerned about the future of the Assemblies of God. In this episode, we expose how specific terminology—like the "five-fold ministry"—is being used as a gateway to introduce NAR "apostles" and "prophets" into local Assemblies of God churches. Pastor Aaron shares his personal journey of watching a thriving church of 300 dwindle to 80 after a NAR takeover and discusses the high-profile departures of flagship churches from the AG, like James River and Bethel Redding.

In this video, you will learn:

The vital distinctions between Pentecostalism, charismatic belief, and NAR.

Why "five-fold ministry" language is often a red flag for aberrant teaching.

The truth behind the "Show Me the Toes" (alleged) miracle and the danger of deceptive "revival" narratives.

How the Assemblies of God’s new 2025 position papers address these encroachments.

TIMESTAMPS

0:00 - Intro: The Encroachment of NAR into the AG

2:15 - Aaron Mapes’ Story: A 5th-Generation Heritage

5:30 - Pentecostal vs. NAR: Clearing the Confusion

9:45 - The "Second Act of Grace" and Initial Physical Evidence

14:10 - How NAR Emerged Out of Independent Charismatic Churches

17:40 - The "Seven Mountain Mandate" vs. Traditional Eschatology

21:30 - Personal Fallout: When a NAR Takeover Splits a Church

28:15 - "Smuggling" Doctrine: The Five-Fold Ministry Language

35:50 - Case Study: James River Church and the "Toes" Controversy

42:10 - The 2025 AG Position Papers: Do They Go Far Enough?

RESOURCES MENTIONED

American Gospel: Spirit & Fire: https://www.americangospelfilm.com/spirit--fire-ag3.html

#NAR #AssembliesOfGod #Pentecostal #ChurchDiscernment #FiveFoldMinistry #Theology #JamesRiverChurch #BethelRedding #SpiritualAbuse #ChristianPodcast

EP 26 | Dangers of "Hearing God's Voice" on the Mission Field: with Aaron and Chelsea Hunter (Pt. 2) Feb 19, 2026

Show notes

Is modern missions work inadvertently hindering the gospel? In Part 2 of our deep dive, former Beyond missionaries Aaron and Chelsea—who were accused by the organization's leadership of being "unteachable"—share their firsthand experiences with the "Church Planting Movement" (CPM) strategy and the controversial "Insider Movements" that allow for religious syncretism.

We discuss how the pressure to "hear from God" and meet artificial deadlines, like the 2025 goal, is resulting in unqualified leadership and the compromise of sound Christian doctrine. If you’re a missionary, a church supporter, or interested in the future of global evangelism, this conversation is a must-watch.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Syncretism in Missions: Why some organizations allow "converts" to continue to worship in mosques or give gifts to idols

Lack of Transparency: Why missionaries are being instructed to hide syncretistic practices from their sending churches and financial supporters

The Problem with Speed: How fast-tracking missions efforts results in unqualified missionaries on the field

Subjective Leadings: How some missionary training models have integrated a version of Discovery Bible Studies that shift the focus from the objective meaning of the biblical text to subjective internal impressions

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Nine Marks: https://www.9marks.org/ (Resources on biblical missions)

#Missions #ChurchPlanting #Theology #Christianity #Discernment #Beyond #YWAM #Evangelism #BibleStudy #Apologetics

EP 24 | You Don’t Have to Do Discernment Alone: An Invitation to “Hold Fast" Jan 22, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, I share exciting news about the launch of my new book club and discussion community, over at Substack, called "Hold Fast with Holly Pivec." And I invite you to join us.

I explain my vision for Hold Fast with Holly Pivec and share messages from my podcast listeners revealing the need for such a discernment community. I also share my own backstory that motivated me to undertake this new venture.

Be sure to watch through to the end to learn about a special launch discount available to my podcast listeners and others who join in the first month.

Are you navigating the challenges of the New Apostolic Reformation and feeling like you’re doing it alone? Well, many others are in the same boat. This community pulls together like-minded believers for guidance, encouragement, and study. Listen to this episode to learn all about my new discernment community and see how you can get involved, including coming to the Acts 17:11 Book Club—where we dissect primary NAR texts together and evaluate them by Scripture and careful reasoning—and participating in my monthly live Q-and-As.

Subscribe today and join a community dedicated to protecting the body of Christ and holding fast to gospel in an age of new "apostles." For more information and to subscribe, visit Hold Fast with Holly Pivec at https://hollypivec.substack.com/about. And don’t forget to listen to this episode to get the full scoop!

EP 23 | Is "Listening Prayer" Biblical? How "Listening Prayer Retreats" Hinder Spiritual Growth Jan 09, 2026

Show notes

Is "listening prayer" the key to intimacy with God, as many Christian teachers claim? In this deep-dive conversation, we discuss a particular view of prayer as "two-way communication" and explore how seeking audible voices or mystical promptings can be a distraction from true spiritual growth. If you’ve ever felt stuck waiting to "hear from God" or worried that you’re missing God's specific instructions for your life, this episode is for you.
In this video, we explore a more robust, biblical framework for intimacy with God.

The topics we address include:
True "Conversation" with God: How God communicates through a mind transformed by Scripture.
Wisdom Over Formulas: Why God wants you to grow into an "empowered agent" rather than a puppet waiting for instructions.
The Dallas Willard Connection: A personal look at Willard’s approach to "hearing God."
The Obedience Key: Why acting on what you already know is the surest path to intimacy with God.

RESOURCES MENTIONED
Hearing God by Dallas Willard - https://www.amazon.com/Hearing-God-Developing-Conversational-Relationship/dp/1514011573

Have you ever felt pressured to "hear a voice" in your prayer life?

Let’s discuss in the comments. I’m curious to hear your experiences with "listening prayer."
If you want to deepen your spiritual discernment, make sure to subscribe and hit the bell icon!

#ChristianDiscernment #HearingGod #DallasWillard #PrayerLife #BiblicalWisdom #ChristianLiving #Discernment #Theology

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