Christian apologist Mike Winger released a nearly six-hour investigative video titled “The Skeletons in Bethel’s Closet are Now Going to Speak” in January 2026, accusing prophetic minister Shawn Bolz of long-term fraudulent practices and sexual misconduct. The video, which drew significant attention in charismatic Christian communities, claims Bolz built his reputation on “words of knowledge” — highly specific personal details like birth dates, addresses, and family information — presented as divine revelation but allegedly obtained through social media research, a pattern that intensified after 2013.
Winger cited interviews with former employees, ministry associates, and insiders alleging a decade-plus pattern of sexually inappropriate and abusive behavior by Bolz, including repeated incidents of nudity and self-gratification in front of younger male subordinates during travel (e.g., hotel rooms or vehicles). Witnesses described this as non-consensual, grooming-like conduct in confined settings, with some reporting lasting psychological harm such as suicidal ideation and PTSD symptoms. Winger emphasized that accounts from different times and locations corroborated each other.
A core accusation is that Bethel Church leadership in Redding, California — which platformed Bolz extensively until around 2019 — knew of sexual harassment allegations as early as 2019 (corroborated by multiple former team members) and evidence of misleading prophetic methods, but failed to act publicly or warn the broader community. Winger described this as a “cover-up culture” prioritizing momentum and elites over discernment and protection, leaving people vulnerable.
In a January 25, 2026, statement signed by leaders Bill Johnson, Kris Vallotton, and Dann Farrelly, Bethel acknowledged significant failures: insufficient discipline, closure, urgency, and transparent communication about Bolz. They admitted privately distancing from him after 2019 reports but not publicly warning others soon enough, stating they “did not tell the truth enough, early enough, long enough, or loud enough.” The church expressed grief and embarrassment, confirmed no longer endorsing Bolz’s ministry, and warned others to consider their position due to his alleged sexually explicit/harassing behavior and untruthful prophetic practices. They have since added accountability measures like a third-party Safe Church system and offered support to affected individuals.
Johnson personally expressed regret for his “extended mercy” and lack of action, saying it contributed to further trauma. Vallotton took responsibility for not communicating more widely.
Winger framed the case as symptomatic of broader issues in some charismatic circles — rewarding spectacle, suppressing discernment, and minimizing accountability — while stressing his intent was reform, not to attack the movement overall. He affirmed belief in spiritual gifts and urged churches to prevent similar harm.
