In 1971 we became officially involved with New Wine Magazine and Christian Growth Ministries in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. There was a sense that among the five of us – Derek Prince (Assemblies of God), Don Basham (Disciples of Christ), Ern Baxter (Charismatic), Charles Simpson (Southern Baptist) and myself (Pentecostal) – there would be a diversification of teaching which would provide a unique balance. The five of us did not realize how important our initial commitment was or where it would lead us. Although we were all very different in personality, ministry style and background, God gave a unity born of the Holy Spirit. Three of these anointed leaders - Don Basham, Ern Baxter and Derek Prince - have since gone to their eternal reward.

In 1972, we held extensive seminars on the truths of God’s Word as we saw them emerging, namely: spiritual unity, spiritual authority, more personal pastoral care, covenantal understanding and discipleship. Basically, the vision sought to establish the truth needed to prevent the Charismatic renewal from degeneration into subjectivism and experience fixation. The response to these truths was remarkable. About this same time similar truth was coming to America from Argentina through Juan Carlos Ortiz and similar voices. The clear cry was the need to harness the power of God to the wagon of God’s purpose in world evangelism. Out of this came what is known as the “discipleship - shepherding” movement. Like many other movements, it blessed and strengthened many, while injuring and disappointing others.

In 1984 when the five teachers disbanded, my choice was to renew my relationship with Elim Fellowship once again. In 1987, I wrote a national apology for the extremes and injuries that occurred, seeking to heal and restore the many that remained confused and concerned. This was well received by most and began to bring healing and reconciliation to many. However, the discipleship movement, travel, warfare and unrelenting pressures had taken its predictable toll on me personally. My physical and emotional health began to suffer.

Judith and I needed a place to recover and prepare for the next phase of God’s unfolding purpose. We moved to Raleigh in 1991, which proved to be God’s city of refuge for us as a ministry and as a family. God surrounded us immediately with employees, friends and medical expertise for my continuing physical difficulties.