Charismatic Bible Ministries (CBM)

On January 21, 1986, Charismatic Bible Ministries was founded in Oklahoma as a fraternal fellowship designed to unite charismatic organizations around a shared devotion to the authority of Scripture, fervent prayer, and the present work of the Holy Spirit for the strengthening of Christ’s church. In a season when many ministries labored independently—often with little counsel beyond their own circles—CBM sought to cultivate brotherly cooperation without surrendering convictions.

From its earliest days, the fellowship emphasized that spiritual vitality must remain submitted to God’s written Word. As leaders urged one another toward doctrinal clarity and moral integrity, the aim was not to quench zeal but to steady it, remembering: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness,” (2 Timothy 3:16).

Purpose and Commitments

CBM served as a meeting place for pastors, evangelists, and lay leaders who desired both spiritual power and biblical sobriety. Participants spoke often of the need for accountability—especially in public ministry, financial stewardship, and personal holiness—so that giftedness would not outpace character. The quiet heroism of this work was seen in humble confession, patient counsel, and the willingness to be corrected for the sake of Christ’s name.

Prayer was treated not as a formality but as a lifeline. The fellowship encouraged leaders to seek God together, trusting His Spirit to renew courage for witness, compassion for the needy, and perseverance in trials.

Tulsa Conference (June 1986)

CBM’s first major conference, held in Tulsa in June 1986, gathered believers for worship, teaching, and united prayer. Services called attendees to renewed confidence that God still equips His people—yet always for the building up of the church and the spread of the gospel. A central theme echoed the Lord’s promise: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses…to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8).

Speakers urged discernment alongside expectancy, reminding ministers to “test all things. Hold fast to what is good.” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). The conference became a marker of strengthened faith, urging holiness, reconciliation, and compassionate service as fitting fruit of Spirit-empowered ministry.