Elevation Life Church




Earlier this year 2025, Elevation Life Church bought a church building at 1321 Beck Ave in Panama City, Florida, along with a vacant lot most likely for parking. This is my current town and they are now adding an addition to it, so wanted to know more about them.

Elevation Church is a non-denominational megachurch based in Charlotte, North Carolina, founded in 2006 by Steven Furtick and Holly Furtick. It has a weekly attendance of over 17,000 and operates 20 campuses, focusing on community outreach and worship.

However, it has faced various criticisms and controversies over the years. These concerns primarily revolve around theological practices, teaching methods, and church culture. It has been criticized for avoiding traditional Christian terminology, such as "resurrection" and "the blood of Jesus," in their Easter invitations. This approach aims to make newcomers feel included but has led to accusations of "watering down" the faith.

Critics argue that Furtick's sermons often lack biblical depth and context. His style is described as more focused on personal empowerment and motivational speaking rather than sound doctrine. He has been linked with other teachers who are considered controversial or heretical, raising concerns about the theological integrity of his teachings.

Elevation Church emphasizes reaching people far from God, which some believe detracts from the spiritual nourishment of existing members. Critics argue that this focus can lead to neglecting deeper theological education. The church's structure has been questioned, particularly regarding the authority of Furtick. Some feel that his leadership style resembles a "visionary" role that undermines the priesthood of all believers.

Some former members have expressed dissatisfaction with the church's practices, claiming that it prioritizes entertainment over genuine worship and biblical teaching. The church has faced significant backlash on social media for its approaches, particularly regarding its Easter messaging and overall theological stance. These issues highlight ongoing debates within the church community about the balance between outreach and doctrinal integrity.


RED FLAG
Elevation Church Fires Youth Pastor Due to Allegations of Inappropriate Conduct at Previous Church


OH BROTHER...
Found this on youtube after a friend told me about it. It was posted 12 years ago. Read the comments... a few are posted below.

 

A FEW OF THE VIDEO COMMENTS:

The irony is that if you go to his "church" but you don't say what he says, see what he sees, read what what he reads, think what he thinks, and do what he does, you'll be ostracized. Speaking from experience here.
According to this man, Paul and Jesus were haters.  So were the early church fathers and the reformers.  All those who held to truth and opposed heresy and false doctrine are the 'haters'.  ALL of the prophets and watchmen are haters.  I guess I should actually be proud to be one of the haters, on the narrow road which goes through the narrow gate.
Glad to have left this church years ago!  Furtick has a cult of personality and pulls the 'martyr' card when people disagree with him.  Any discussion of the church's finances, the lack of lay leadership, and the disregard for discipling church attendees is dismissed as not seeing the vision.  I won't be shamed into silence; this church has some flaws that no one inside the church wants to address.