False Teacher

Greg Locke

Angry book-burning pastor who attributes autism and mental illness to demons

Biography

Greg Locke is the pastor of Global Vision Bible Church in Tennessee who has become infamous for his aggressive, anger-driven ministry. He conducts theatrical mass exorcisms, publicly claims that children with autism are demon-possessed, and teaches that mental health conditions like OCD are always demonic rather than medical. He has led public book and media burnings (including Disney and Harry Potter materials), creating an atmosphere of fear and hostility rather than the peace of Christ. His ministry exemplifies what James warns against: 'the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God' (James 1:20). A shepherd should lead with rod and staff (comfort and guidance), not with a whip of fear.

Biblical Assessment

Every preacher is tested against our 5-point biblical framework. Here's how Greg Locke measures up:

Title & Authority

VERDICT: FAIL

Self-appointed pastor who has broken from all denominational accountability. Uses social media fame rather than church ordination as his platform. His aggressive persona contradicts the biblical qualifications for elders.

Scripture:

1 Timothy 3:2-3, Titus 1:7-8, 2 Timothy 2:24-25

Gospel Message

VERDICT: FAIL

Teaches that autism and mental illness are demonic possession rather than medical conditions. This causes immense harm to families, delays proper treatment, and places spiritual blame on innocent children. He shares Kathryn Krick's false teaching that Christians can be demon-possessed, contradicting temple theology (1 Cor 6:19).

Scripture:

John 9:2-3, 1 Corinthians 6:19, James 1:20

Fruit & Lifestyle

VERDICT: FAIL

Known for explosive anger, public confrontations, and creating an atmosphere of fear. His book-burning spectacles echo historical atrocities rather than Christ's gentle spirit. The fruit of the Spirit includes gentleness, patience, and self-control — qualities conspicuously absent from his ministry.

Scripture:

Galatians 5:22-23, James 1:19-20, Matthew 11:29

Revelation vs. Scripture

VERDICT: FAIL

Claims direct revelation about who is demon-possessed, including diagnosing autism and mental illness as demonic. These 'revelations' contradict both Scripture and medical science, causing real harm to vulnerable families.

Scripture:

Deuteronomy 18:20-22, 1 John 4:1, Proverbs 18:13

Finances & Transparency

VERDICT: FAIL

Global Vision Bible Church operates without denominational financial oversight. Locke has profited significantly from his controversial persona through social media monetization and donations.

Scripture:

2 Corinthians 8:21, 1 Timothy 6:5, 1 Peter 5:2

Key Quotes

These statements from Greg Locke reveal doctrinal error.

"Autism in some cases is demonic. I have seen it cast out."

— Greg Locke

Violates: John 9:2-3, James 1:20, Proverbs 18:13

Source: Global Vision Bible Church service, 2022

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"We have people in our church that have been delivered from the demon of autism."

— Greg Locke

Violates: John 9:2-3, 1 Corinthians 6:19

Source: Social media statement, 2022

View quotes with full scripture refutation →

Sources & References

All assessments are based on verifiable, publicly available sources:

•Global Vision Bible Church services and social media
•Book burning events documented by news media
•Public statements on autism and mental illness
•YouTube and social media content

See an error? We strive for complete accuracy. If you believe we've misrepresented Greg Locke's teaching, contact us with evidence and we'll review.