“Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” (Matthew 7:15 NASV)

[by Dean Smith] The New York Times is reporting that members of various federal agencies have authority to do undercover work disguising themselves as someone else, even clergy, to gain information. These agencies seem to have more latitude to do this type of work than even the FBI.

In particular, the government appears to have given the American Internal Revenue Service (IRS) an inordinate authority to do this type of undercover work.

The IRS rules read: “an undercover employee or cooperating private individual may pose as an attorney, physician, clergyman or member of the news media.”

Those working with IRS, refused to state if members of their organization have ever disguised themselves as clergy and for what purpose.

Responding to the article, Rev Patrick J. Mahoney of the Christian Defense Coalition said in a news release:

“The church and faith community are now being faced with the reality that the government is sending IRS agents, pretending to be members of the clergy, into Christian meetings, gatherings and services for the distinct purpose of the government “spying” on them. Also, American citizens must confront the fact that when they share their concerns with a member of the clergy, they may be talking to an IRS agent.”

Read more:

• More Federal Agencies are using undercover operations: The New York Times
• Faith organization outraged and troubled that IRS undercover agents can pose as members of the clergy to gather information:Christian Newswire