Michael Todd, the lead pastor of Transformation Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, has cultivated a substantial following through social media engagement, an appeal to contemporary churchgoers, and his work as a published author. While his platform offers opportunities for positive influence, it also invites scrutiny, particularly regarding his theological stances and associations. As a teacher of biblical principles, Todd is held to a higher standard, as his teachings have the potential to impact and shape the beliefs of his followers.
Core Doctrines and Potential for Confusion
The Bible emphasizes that God is not the author of confusion. Therefore, pastors must adhere to essential doctrines to ensure clarity and avoid leading their congregations astray. These doctrines include the nature of God, the identity of Jesus Christ, and the path to salvation. Deviations from these core tenets can lead individuals down a "dark path."
This article examines Michael Todd's views on Jesus and salvation, as well as the pastors with whom he associates, to determine whether his teachings align with sound biblical doctrine.
Michael Todd's Definition of Salvation: A Prosperity Gospel?
Miscommunication of important concepts, especially those deemed essential, needs clarification. When it comes to salvation, there is little room for error, especially for someone who claims to be a pastor. If salvation is misunderstood, everything else becomes irrelevant.
Transformation Church's statement of faith, while present, is not readily accessible to the public. It is located under the "About Us" section, requiring scrolling past the biographies of Michael Todd and his wife, Natalie, and then selecting the "Concrete" tab.
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Within this statement, a specific segment raises concerns: "We believe that, as part of Christ's work of salvation, it is the Father's will for believers to become whole, healthy, and successful in all areas of life…" These areas are further defined as spiritual, mental, emotional, physical, and financial.
While good health, a strong spiritual life, emotional well-being, and financial stability are not inherently negative, prioritizing them over God can be problematic. The Bible teaches that salvation primarily changes our eternal destiny, but it does not guarantee a life free from problems or suffering.
By including these benefits as part of salvation, Michael Todd and Transformation Church risk promoting the prosperity gospel. This doctrine, popularized by figures like Joel Osteen, suggests that God's favor leads to financial abundance and a lavish lifestyle. This can lead to a dangerous focus on worldly success rather than genuine faith and devotion to God.
The Identity of Jesus: Did He Reach His Full Potential?
In the Gospels, Jesus asks his disciples, "Whom say ye that I am?" Peter identifies Jesus as "the Christ, the Son of the living God". This recognition is crucial because it establishes Jesus as more than just a prophet or teacher; He is God incarnate.
However, in a message delivered at VOUS Church in Florida, Michael Todd asserted that Jesus did not reach His full potential. This statement contradicts the traditional understanding of Jesus as the complete and perfect Son of God.
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If Jesus did not reach his full potential, then He isn't God now and wasn't God when He died on the cross.
Todd's perspective appears to be an attempt to overly humanize Jesus, emphasizing self-reflection and the realization of personal purpose. However, this approach undermines the finished work of Jesus and its significance for salvation.
Ephesians 1:13-14 states that believers are sealed by the Holy Spirit until the day of redemption. However, if Jesus failed to reach his potential, He is not a sacrifice that is able to save us.
John 3:16 defines Jesus' "full potential" as achieving the goal of providing eternal life for all who believe in Him. Since this goal was accomplished, claiming that Jesus did not reach His full potential can be viewed as blasphemy.
Association with Other Pastors: A Reflection of Theological Alignment
The company one keeps can often indicate shared values and beliefs. Michael Todd's association with certain other pastors raises further questions about his theological leanings.
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Todd has spoken at Joel Osteen's church and has publicly expressed approval of Osteen's ministry. He has also developed a relationship with Steven Furtick of Elevation Church.
Furtick, in turn, has connections to T.D. Jakes, who is known for promoting the doctrine of modalism, which denies the eternal distinction between Jesus and God the Father or the Holy Spirit.
The fact that Michael Todd has a blossoming public relationship with these men shows you who he really wants to be associated with.
Controversy Beyond Theology: Fashion and Actions
Beyond theological concerns, Michael Todd has faced criticism for his fashion choices and actions during sermons.
Some have criticized his attire, questioning whether it aligns with traditional pastoral norms. Others have taken issue with his on-stage behavior, such as throwing food and pouring syrup on communion elements, deeming it disrespectful and sensationalist.
In January 2022, Todd spit into his hands and rubbed the spittle onto another man’s face while preaching on Mark 8.
Todd's message was delivered in-person to his congregation of about 5,000. The sermon then was posted on Transformation’s YouTube channel, which has 2.1 million subscribers.
Financial Accountability
The Instagram account PreachersNSneakers offers a glimpse into the world of faith and fashion by pairing images of pastors sporting high-end clothing items with their eye-watering costs.
If you're an active member of your local church and you donate to the ministry, it's perfectly reasonable to ask questions about how the organization is "saving, spending, and giving that money."
Many churches today are led by one pastor couple with no elders or leadership team on the same level, that’s asking for trouble.
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