The Rise and Fall of the Kansas City Prophets
- History & Biography
- Publisher: Cascade Books (Wipf and Stock)
- Published: 2026
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Publisher's Description
Prophecy is perhaps the most controversial of all the spiritual gifts listed in the New Testament. Many in the charismatic community welcome its presence as one way in which the Holy Spirit strengthens and encourages believers. Others insist that God no longer provides this gift, insofar as it would threaten the finality and sufficiency of Scripture. No other group promoted and practiced this spiritual gift with greater impact than did the so-called Kansas City Prophets. Their claims of a variety of supernatural and revelatory experiences have exerted a massive influence on the body of Christ, not only in the US but globally. This book describes who they were, where they came from, and what they insist were genuine prophetic events, together with a critique of their validity. Both their rise and fall contribute to a deeper understanding of the nature of this one spiritual gift as well as insight into the inner dynamics of the charismatic movement itself. Sam Storms writes as an insider within the movement and provides a fresh and honest evaluation of both the alleged success and obvious failures of this controversial chapter in the history of charismatic Christianity.
Endorsements (2)
“This is a remarkable book! It is a sad and sobering warning about the destructive effects of secret sins committed by Christian leaders. It is also a faith-building narrative of dozens of examples of God miraculously revealing things to ordinary Christians. And as Sam Storms gives his reflections on each story, this book also becomes a wise and biblically faithful guide that will help Christian leaders evaluate and shepherd the use of miraculous gifts today.”
“I am glad I read this book. It told me more than I wanted to know, but which I needed to know. For those open to the strange world of the prophetic, this is for you. But be prepared to learn about the good, the bad, and the ugly—indeed to be informed about the sublime and also the bizarre. Dr. Sam Storms has poured his heart out in writing conscientiously and with vulnerable honesty. He tells what he believes to be genuine, what false, and when he is not sure. This book is especially a wake-up call to those who put gifting above character. It should be read by both cessationists and charismatics.”
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