A controversial church led by a self-proclaimed apostle, accused of cult-like behavior.
Foundation in Plano, Texas
Water of Life Ministries was established on November 24, 1980, by Doyle Davidson in Plano, Texas. Davidson, born on April 4, 1932, in Sarcoxie, Missouri, claimed to have received a divine calling to preach the gospel in 1970. Prior to his ministry, Davidson worked as a veterinarian but felt directed by God to speak to the people of Plano.
The ministry began with Davidson holding services in his home, and as the congregation grew, it moved to various locations before settling in a church building in Plano. Water of Life Ministries is non-denominational and considers its members to be part of the body of Christ within the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.
Teachings and Practices
Davidson’s teachings focused on the gospel—the death, burial, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ—asserting that this message brings spiritual rain and blessings as prophesied by Zechariah the prophet. The ministry was characterized by a literal interpretation of the Bible and a strong emphasis on faith healing.
One of the distinctive aspects of Water of Life Ministries was Davidson’s claim to be a prophet and apostle. He asserted that God spoke directly to him and that he had been given special authority to interpret scripture and lead his followers. This belief led to a hierarchical structure within the ministry, with Davidson at the top and his closest associates holding positions of authority beneath him.
The ministry also placed a significant emphasis on spiritual warfare, with Davidson frequently speaking about battling demonic forces and the importance of deliverance from evil spirits. He often attributed physical and mental ailments to demonic possession and claimed to have the power to cast out these demons through his prayers and interventions.
Media Presence and Outreach
Water of Life Ministries gained attention through its television broadcasts, which aired on local channels and eventually expanded to reach a wider audience through satellite and internet streaming. These broadcasts played a crucial role in expanding the ministry’s reach beyond the local congregation in Plano.
Throughout the years, Water of Life Ministries organized various events, including revivals and healing services, which drew attendees from across the country. These gatherings often featured extended periods of prayer, worship, and testimonies from individuals claiming to have experienced divine healing or spiritual breakthroughs.
Controversial Teachings and Incidents
The ministry’s teachings often diverged from mainstream Christian doctrines, particularly in regards to marriage and relationships. Davidson taught that God had the power to dissolve marriages and unite individuals in new spiritual unions. This belief led to controversy and criticism from other religious leaders and organizations.
One particularly disturbing incident involved Dena Schlosser, a member of the church who, in a psychotic state, harmed her child. This tragic case drew attention to Davidson’s intense preaching style and his focus on demonic possession and spiritual warfare, leading to criticism that his influence had a detrimental effect on Schlosser’s mental health.
Davidson’s personal life and interactions with his followers have also sparked controversy, including his claim to a spiritual marriage with a woman named Lisa Staton, who was legally married to another man. Davidson’s pursuit of Staton and his public declarations about their supposed spiritual union led to legal confrontations and public outcry. His actions and statements regarding this matter have been widely criticized and viewed as manipulative and delusional.
Water of Life Ministries has also faced legal challenges and public scrutiny throughout its existence. In 2004, Davidson was involved in a legal dispute with his former wife, who accused him of physical and emotional abuse. The case garnered significant media attention and led to increased scrutiny of the ministry’s practices.
The ministry’s financial practices also came under scrutiny, with questions raised about the use of donations and the overall financial management of the organization. However, detailed financial records of the ministry were not made publicly available, making it difficult to assess the full extent of its operations and expenditures.
As a result of the controversies surrounding Davidson and his ministry, his broadcasts were removed from four stations due to protests over his content. Despite this, the ministry continued to promote Davidson’s messages and teachings through various media platforms.
Water of Life Ministries has caught the attention of cult watchdog organizations, including the Cult Education Institute, which has compiled information on the group. Such organizations are concerned with the practices and teachings of Davidson and his ministry, categorizing them as potentially harmful and cult-like in nature.
The Future of Water of Life Ministries
As Davidson aged, questions arose about the future leadership of Water of Life Ministries. Unlike some other religious organizations, there was no clear succession plan or designated heir to take over the ministry. This uncertainty led to speculation about the long-term viability of the organization beyond Davidson’s leadership.
Doyle Davidson continued to lead Water of Life Ministries until his death on February 14, 2021, at the age of 88. His passing marked the end of an era for the ministry he had built over several decades. The future of Water of Life Ministries following Davidson’s death remains uncertain, as the organization was so closely tied to his personal leadership and teachings.
image via D Magazine
