After sending 4 emails to Bill Hughes and only receiving a single, vague reply, I feel compelled to publicly address the dishonest and salacious statements he made about me in a recent sermon he published on YouTube. In my final email, I even included a respected pastor whom both Bill and I know, hoping it might prompt some accountability. Unfortunately, that appeal was ignored as well. I have given him multiple opportunities to correct the record. But since he has shown no willingness to make things right—and because many of our followers and friends also follow his platform, including several pastors—I am left with no choice but to set the record straight.
In the video, you will first hear Bill Hughes’ public statements, which he made during a sermon that he posted online. Immediately following that, you will see my actual words, which clearly demonstrate just how far Bill’s salacious and misleading remarks stray from the truth.
Here’s what Bill Hughes said:
• “I was listening to a video this week that almost made me vomit. Two gentlemen, Andy Roman, Jeremy. Talking about the miracle of General Conference 2025. And in their discussion, Mr. Roman declared what a privilege it was to rub shoulders with these leaders in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. And I just about lost it. Friends, that mentality is exactly that of Arthur Maxwell in Rome during Vatican II when Arthur Maxwell stated that he sat within 50 feet of his holiness. And the man he was talking about, Pope Paul VI, at that very time was running drugs and laundering money through the Vatican Bank and spreading drugs all over the major cities of America. Arthur Maxwell almost gasped, ‘I was 50 feet from his holiness.’ So is that our goal today, friends? Is that the goal, Andy, to rub shoulders and to have the privilege of sitting down with men in the General Conference, who are selling their souls so they can own some plush homes, or to have a home in the Bahamas? Is that the goal, Andy? Shame on you.”
First of all, I never said it was a privilege to rub shoulders with leadership—or with anyone, for that matter. That is a completely fabricated statement, invented by Bill Hughes and falsely attributed to me. That’s what he claims I said—but I never did. What I actually said was that it was a privilege to engage directly with certain leaders in a forum where I was allowed to ask questions and our leaders were expected to respond. I made that point clearly and repeatedly in the video—not just once. The context in which I used the word “privilege” had absolutely nothing to do with cozying up to leadership. Bill Hughes twisted both my words and their meaning. Here is what I actually said:
• “Privilege of not just meeting,”
• “Not just meet them but actually address them in a forum that’s live and recorded with members of external and internal media—that’s all the church press and all the church media and all the magazines, yes, your union papers and all these entities.”
• “And that I would have the privilege to talk to them, specifically ask questions, and that they would have to answer, or at least make an attempt to answer.”
• “We are never going to stop emphasizing people to come into God’s will. So we are going to always encourage people. Are we going to do it in love? Absolutely. Is it going to be done? Absolutely. And we will continue to hold each other to account.”
It defies credulity that someone would manufacture controversy and slander a fellow believer simply because he misunderstands the meaning of a single word. Bill Hughes’ entire dilemma centers on the word “privilege.” He seems to think it means honor, praise, or homage. That’s how he misinterpreted it and how he misrepresented it to others in his sermon. The word “privilege” refers to an advantage not given to everyone. That’s it. That’s the actual definition. Anything beyond that is pure speculation. For example, there were others at the press conference who also wanted to pose questions to our leaders but couldn’t—because they lacked media credentials. It was the credential that gave someone the distinct advantage of being allowed to speak when others could not. That’s precisely what it means to say, “I had the privilege of engaging with leaders in a forum.” It means that I had the opportunity others didn’t. That’s the meaning—plain and simple.
But Bill Hughes has just redefined the English language. He interpreted “privilege” to mean “cozying up” to leadership and even used the Pope as his example. That is utterly insane. It’s not only a distortion of my words—it’s a complete twisting of language. Ironically, this is exactly what the Pope and apostate Christianity do to the Word of God. So let me ask: Who is acting more Papal here? Who is really cozying up to Rome with this codified, authoritarian way of misinterpreting words and projecting false narratives?
While it is true that I interacted with leadership during the press conferences, it was never about status, pride, and certainly not about compromising truth. It was about raising serious concerns to them, which I did. Bill Hughes never said one word about that. I addressed issues such as alignment with United Nations agendas, the promotion of papal documents, and ecumenical compromise. Bill left that part out. I even directly confronted Ganoune Diop regarding his troubling statements about the Three Angels’ Messages. Again, Bill was silent on this matter. These actions go far beyond the simplistic and misleading idea of “rubbing shoulders” with leadership.
Yet in Bill Hughes’ sermon that was shared on YouTube, none of this context was given. Instead, he painted a one-sided and inaccurate picture that misrepresented my work. Had Bill Hughes taken the time to do even basic due diligence before slandering my name online—if he had watched the full video or even listened to the questions I posed to leadership—he would have seen clearly that this kind of engagement was legitimate because the questions were rooted in a sincere desire for clarity and accountability.
Bill Hughes didn’t get anything right. Sometimes, error is mixed with truth. Evangelicals might give you 50% truth with 50% error. Catholics might give 25% truth and 75% error. Even the devil offers at least 10% truth. But what Bill presented wasn’t even 0.01% truth. It was 100% falsehood. Let me explain. 1—Not only did he butcher the meaning of the word “privilege” to prejudice the minds of his followers, but 2—then he ripped my words out of context—more Papal tactics. 3—He then fabricated a quote—claiming I said that it was a privilege to rub shoulders with leaders—presenting a completely false scenario. 4—Finally, he stood up in a church on Sabbath and launched into a theatrical spectacle—calling me out by name, like he was having a conversation with me, asking me questions. In a Sabbath sermon?
Bill Hughes has produced countless videos exposing apostasy among church leadership. It is a defining feature of his ministry. But here lies a deeper and more troubling issue. The greatest apostasy is not always found in the actions of church leaders—it’s when a professed “present-truth” ministry leader, who claims to operate on a higher spiritual standard and calls out the sins of others, is himself unwilling to acknowledge his own wrongdoing when it’s brought to his attention. Bill Hughes publicly defamed me, twisting both my statements and my involvement at the General Conference Session into something nefarious or compromising. Yet he lacks the spiritual maturity and integrity to speak with me directly or engage in dialogue.
If Bill Hughes truly believes in truth, righteousness, and accountability, then he should do the honorable thing and remove the video in which he slanders my name. As a pastor, he has the responsibility not only to speak truthfully but also to correct falsehoods when they are brought to light and to show the grace and humility to admit when he is flat-out wrong. It is a sad reality that within Adventism, we have individuals who have made it their mission to expose the apostasy of others, yet they refuse to acknowledge their own transgressions. That kind of one-sided accountability is not righteousness—it is pride disguised as piety. Let us pray for such individuals. Without humility, the so-called ‘present truth’ becomes nothing more than a lot of noise—boastful, accusatory, and spiritually bankrupt.
I stopped listening to Bill Hughes some time ago and unsubscribed from his channel. Why? Because truth doesn’t need theatrics, showmanship, or emotional manipulation. That kind of performance is the domain of error, which always demands smoke, mirrors, and spectacle—yet another characteristic it shares with the Papal system. And let’s be clear: kingly power and unaccountable leadership are not confined to the institutional Seventh-day Adventist Church. They are alive and thriving in many so-called independent ministries. We now have mini-popes—self-appointed voices who say and do whatever they please, who traffic in slander and character assassination without a shred of accountability.
Here’s what Jesus says to every preacher who eagerly exposes the faults of others but refuses to acknowledge their own:
“Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.” John 7:5.
This is a direct warning from Jesus against the arrogant, self-righteous spirit that thrives on pointing out everyone else’s faults while deliberately ignoring one’s own. It’s the height of hypocrisy—and it mirrors the very spirit of antichrist, the Papal mindset that elevates itself above correction while condemning others. God, deliver us from such a poisonous, unchristian attitude. According to Jesus, no one has the moral or spiritual authority to call out others until they have first examined and corrected themselves. And even then, the correction will not be done through reckless, reputation-destroying tirades filled with frivolous, exaggerated, baseless, or purely speculative accusations. Those who engage in this behavior aren’t defending the faith—they’re defiling it.
0
0
0
Brother Andy,
Do not worry, God knows and the true followers of Christ know that by “privilege” you simply meant “opportunity”.
The best is to ignore those unjust accusations.
The messenger of the Lord says:
“Let not those who are accused offer one word of retaliation. Silence is eloquence. 17LtMs, Ms 167, 1902, par. 4
Wonderful quote, thank you Michel Herman.
Years ago I made up my mind that when the enemy tempted me to speak hastily because I felt that I was treated unjustly and wickedly, I would not open my lips. If I should speak even one word in reply, the enemy would be almost sure to gain the victory. We must learn to keep silent. In silence there is eloquence. When fighting battles with the forces of darkness, let us keep our tongues bridled. Then we shall be victorious. 17LtMs, Ms 155, 1902, par. 38
Then said Daniel unto the king, “O king, live for ever.“
Taken out of context, I think that someone could have a sermon about this too.
But what can we expect from Daniel? He was given plush, high level jobs in multiple pagan kingdoms. Obviously a complete sell out.
When someone’s ministries is built around finding faults in others, they will find it or they will manufacture it.
It’s been a few years now that I too had to unsunscribe and unfollow Bill Hughes for many of the same reasons given here.
I am so thankful for the work, advocacy, and integrity of Advent Messenger and brother Andy Roman. I will continue to share and support this ministry however and whenever I can.
God bless
Hi Andy, I’m so sorry this happened. “Bright lights” will fail us and at times malign those who earnestly fight the good fight. I have followed Advent Messenger since the women’s ordination controversy began. And I want you to know I appreciate your outlet revealing issues within our body that other outlets won’t touch. All that to say this.
I shared the article regarding the rural hospitals that are marked for potential closure due to Medicaid cuts. I teach at Appalachian Christian Academy- the school affiliated with Advent Health Manchester, KY. I shared that article with key leaders within our little church, that also sits next to the hospital. I received a tepid response. The pastor responded by saying the “source” tends to be conspiratorial, and therefore (I presumed) not worth being overly concerned about.
Unfortunately we live in a time where wagons are circling within our church. While our focus in writing and in action should and always be sharing the gospel, we stand ready within our barricades to defend ourselves against whatever attack may come. I understand why the GC leaders want to bury 2015 statement and why WO is not on the agenda, among other issues. The lines of division cut deeper every time these issues are exposed.
I fear we may never be “unified” as a corporate body – and our focus needs to be toward our local communities. We don’t have much time left and yet most of our smaller churches, especially in rural communities, have no idea what we are all about.
I feel like I’ve rambled a bit. But please know that you are being prayed for. And I thank you for your ministry with Advent Messenger.
Andy I appreciate your dedication and commitment to upholding truth and accountability. However giving so much free press to someone who denigrates your work is really lowering the quality of your work. A waste of energy.
Critics will always piggyback on those who do what matters. Take the example of EGW. She did not respond to criticism because she did not want to be distracted from the more important work she had to do. Let’s keep our head down and into the wind as we move forward in the right direction.
And let mute dogs bark.
Dear Mr. Roman,
I just wanted to take a moment to express my deep appreciation for your dedication to sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ—and especially for boldly proclaiming the Three Angels’ Message to the world.
I came out of Babylon just four months ago, and even while I was still in the world, I often found myself listening to you, Mr. Henriques, and Mr. Veith. Your messages planted seeds that God used to draw me out of the darkness, and I’m so thankful.
While it saddens me that Mr. Hughes would use his influence to deceive and mislead souls by misrepresenting and accusing you, his actions are a sobering reminder of how near we are to the end of time. As Sister White wrote, “They become the most bitter enemies of their former brethren” (GC88 608.1).
Jesus said, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance” (Luke 5:32, KJV)—and it’s for this very reason that He also said, “For many are called, but few are chosen” (Matthew 22:14, KJV).
May God continue to bless and strengthen you, Mr. Roman, as you stand firm in truth.
Thank you! Let us keep our eyes on Jesus and remain faithful.
Respectfully, and I am talking to myself also, I would admonish everyone to keep your eyes on JESUS. It doesn’t matter WHO it is, man is fallible. The Bible, Spirit of Prophecy and Commentaries are available for our personal use and with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can obey Jesus’ command and go into the world to teach and baptize. TIME IS SHORT. Don’t get hemmed up on the internet listening to grown men fighting. It is a distraction from the enemy. Jesus’ life was filled with people lying on Him and about Him and even plotting His death! He did not focus on that. Instead, He focused on His mission. God’s people have a work to accomplish in the mighty name of Jesus. Jesus is soon to come. Let’s focus on our Focus.
Brother Roman,
I can’t find an email address or number for your ministry and I know you sift through comments so I know this will not be published.
I really am impressed to tell you to take your post down. It will cause more problems. It is not worth it. God alone vindicates.
Let your “works” and character speak for themselves.
Pray for your enemies, bless those that curse you and persecute you….so that you may be perfect as your Father in Heaven is perfect. Matthew 5
Dear Brother Roman, I appreciate both your important work as a watchman and the good work of Brother Hughes. I am not sure whether your conversations with leaders of the GC, who have pushed their agenda hard and stubbornly to protect themselves and thwart enlightenment, were right and useful, but I had mixed feelings about this. That’s why I can empathize with Brother Hughes’ statement, who interpreted “privilege” as ingratiation and sharply criticized you. It is a pity that you were not able to speak out and that Brother Hughes did not apologize for the harsh personal attack and deleted this part. However, in my opinion, you went too far in your outrage and hit back unpleasantly several times. Where has our humility and gentleness gone, despite the other person’s mistake? Hopefully there will soon be a reconciliation and a partial deletion on both sides.
• Open/Public sin deserves open/public rebuke, reproof and warnings, so that others may be alarmed or aroused to the danger:
“20 Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
• Paul testify before Heaven that we keep and practice this principle without bias or respect of persons, or without partiality – preferring one above another:
21 I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.
• Do not be be sudden or quick to take a side, anoint, bless no man – no matter the position, title, or creed…
“7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them. 11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. ” Ephesians 5:7, 11 KJV
Revelation 18:4:
22 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.
• Careful study and deep search into the Word of God for the sake of perverted appetite and often temptations:
23 Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities.
“15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, 16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. ”
Ephesians 5:15-16 KJV
• Some people follow after men who have open sins that are not confessed and repented off; God is going to deal with these sins:
24 Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after.
• Some men have a record of good works that are known openly, however some men that have evil works will be exposed:
25 Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid. ”
1 Timothy 5:20-25 KJV
“For there is no respect of persons with God. ” Romans 2:11 KJV
“Is there not as great need at this time for warnings and reproof as at any period of this earth’s history? And warnings will come, discovering the hidden things of darkness. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.] There are individuals who require plain words of reproof, and the apostle says, “Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.” [1 Timothy 5:20.]
There are times when private reproof has no effect. The Lord knows better than human beings the needs of His people. He does not consult man’s imperfect judgment as to how he shall work in bringing reproof to his people. The charge of Paul is, “I charge thee before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, that thou observe these things, without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure. … Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment: and some men they follow after. Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.”” [Verses 21, 22, 24, 25 13LtMs, Ms 56, 1898, par. 55 – 13LtMs, Ms 56, 1898, par. 56
My! What extreme nonesense to talk like that about people who are doing such a brilliant work of keeping us informed, while treating people fairly and with respect. I really appreciate your balanced approach as you bring out really critical issues. To look at the GC officials as humans in need of encouragement and respecting their positions is quite admirable especially when such really sensitive issues have had to be dealt with. This is a good sign that an individual can still be fair to everyone even though they are in completely opposition to things that are being done. What is wrong with saying that we appreciate getting to address the leaders? We don’t have to deplore everyone but we can speak fairly and kindly while still addressing the real issues. That is what I appreciate about your reporting. Be encouraged and thanks for staying level-headed while keeping us informed. We will keep praying for you.
This is a pattern for Bill Hughes. He does it all the time to Doug bachelor and I’m pretty tired of listening to it so I’m not going to listen to him or watch his sermons anymore.
Keep up your good work, look not to the right nor to the left. keep doing till when the master comes finds you so doing.
It could be simply an esteem issue. just understand and remain indifferent.