Chapter 20: Appendix A: Finis Dake’s Sex with an Underage Girl and Federal Conviction

Chicago Tribune, “Zion Minister Jailed by U.S. on Mann Act,” May 27, 1936, 1. Available at: https://learntheology.com/dake_trial/Chicago_Tribune_1936_05_27_1.pdf.

Introduction: Why This Matters for Christians Today

When we study the Bible, we often use study tools to help us understand God’s Word better. One of the most popular study Bibles in Pentecostal and Assemblies of God churches has been the Dake Annotated Reference Bible. But there’s something very important that many users of this Bible don’t know about its author, Finis Jennings Dake.

In 1937, Finis Dake was convicted of a federal crime – violating the Mann Act by transporting a 16-year-old girl across state lines for immoral purposes. He pleaded guilty to these charges and served time in prison. This isn’t gossip or rumor – this is documented fact from federal court records and newspaper reports from that time.

Why does this matter? Well, the Bible tells us that teachers and leaders in the church should be “above reproach” (1 Timothy 3:2). When someone who commits serious moral failures also teaches about God’s Word, we need to be very careful about their teachings. Jesus warned us about false teachers who appear good on the outside but are corrupt on the inside (Matthew 7:15-20).

This appendix will show you exactly what happened, using the actual newspaper reports and court documents from 1936 and 1937. Every fact presented here is documented. You can check the sources yourself by clicking on the links to the original newspaper articles.

PART ONE: THE ARREST – MAY 1936

The Night of the Arrest

On Tuesday evening, May 26, 1936, federal agents arrived at the home of Rev. Finis Jennings Dake in Zion, Illinois. The timing couldn’t have been worse for Dake – or perhaps it was perfectly planned by the authorities. The Chicago Tribune reported what happened:

Think about this for a moment. Here was a pastor, about to go lead a church service, being arrested by federal agents. He was so worried about his reputation that his first concern was that his church members might find out. But they would soon learn everything.

Dake spent that first night in the county jail. His wife, Dorothy, who was also an ordained minister, had to lead the church service without him. The Chicago Tribune tells us that she defended her husband, but her defense would soon crumble under the weight of evidence:

The Federal Charges

The charges against Dake were extremely serious. He was charged with violating the Mann Act, also known as the White Slave Traffic Act. This federal law makes it a crime to transport anyone across state lines for immoral purposes, especially minors. The Chicago Tribune provided specific details about the charges:

Let’s be very clear about what this means. The federal government was charging that a 33-year-old married pastor had taken a 16-year-old girl on a trip for sexual purposes. This wasn’t a misunderstanding or a minor issue – this was a federal felony charge.

The Initial Court Appearance

On May 27, 1936, Dake appeared before United States Commissioner Edwin K. Walker. Multiple newspapers covered this appearance, and their reports paint a disturbing picture of Dake’s emotional state and behavior. The Oshkosh Northwestern reported:

Notice the description: “Red-eyed from weeping.” This wasn’t the confident Bible teacher that his followers knew. This was a man caught in serious sin, facing federal prison time.

The next day, May 28, 1936, Dake appeared again in court. The Chicago Tribune gave a detailed account of what happened during the legal proceedings:

PART TWO: THE VICTIM – EMMA BARELLI

Who Was Emma Barelli?

Emma Barelli was not some adult woman who made a poor choice. She was a 16-year-old high school student from Kenosha, Wisconsin. The Kenosha News, her hometown newspaper, provided important details about her:

Think about this: Emma was just a normal teenage girl going to junior high school. She had never been in trouble with the law before. She was someone’s daughter, perhaps someone’s sister. And then she met Finis Dake.

The federal prosecutor revealed disturbing details about how Dake had targeted not just Emma, but a group of teenage girls. The Kenosha News reported on February 9, 1937:

Let that sink in. A married pastor with an 8-year-old daughter was having “petting parties” with high school girls. This wasn’t a one-time mistake or moment of weakness. This was a pattern of predatory behavior.

The Power Dynamic

It’s important to understand the power that Dake had over Emma. He wasn’t just any adult – he was a minister, someone who claimed to speak for God. The Belleville News-Democrat reported what federal agents discovered about Emma’s state of mind:

The phrase “under the spell of the minister” is crucial here. This shows that Emma wasn’t making free choices – she was being manipulated by someone in spiritual authority. Dake was using his position as a minister to take advantage of a teenage girl.

Emma’s Letter Home

After Dake took Emma to East St. Louis, she wrote a letter to her father. This letter would become key evidence in the case. Several newspapers reported on what she wrote:

The Kenosha News provided more details about this letter:

This is heartbreaking. A 16-year-old girl, taken from her family, was being told that what was happening to her was somehow religious or spiritual. Dake was not only abusing her physically but was also manipulating her spiritually, making her think this was about “getting religion.”

PART THREE: THE TRIP – WHAT REALLY HAPPENED

The Route of Sin

The federal investigation revealed the exact route that Dake took with Emma Barelli. This wasn’t a simple trip from one place to another. Dake took this teenage girl to multiple hotels across state lines. The Chicago Tribune reported:

Let’s understand what this means. Dake registered at multiple hotels with a 16-year-old girl as “Mr. and Mrs. Anderson.” He was pretending this child was his wife. The Belleville News-Democrat provided even more specific details:

Not only did he use a fake name, but he also gave a fake hometown – Tulsa, Oklahoma. This shows clear intent to deceive and hide what he was doing.

The Other Girl

Something that makes this story even more disturbing is that Emma wasn’t the only girl involved initially. The federal indictment revealed that Dake had actually picked up TWO teenage girls:

So Dake had initially picked up two teenage girls. One of them, Dorothy Adrian, had the wisdom or the fear to get out of the car and leave. But Emma stayed, and continued on with Dake to Illinois.

Dake’s Initial Defense

When first confronted with these charges, what did Dake say? He didn’t deny taking the girl. He couldn’t – there was too much evidence. Instead, he tried to explain it away. The Chicago Tribune reported his explanation:

Think about how ridiculous this explanation is. A married pastor takes a 16-year-old girl on a multi-city trip, registers at hotels as husband and wife, uses a fake name, and then claims he just wanted to help her get a job? Would any reasonable person believe this?

The Journal Times from Racine, Wisconsin, reported another version of Dake’s excuse:

The Real Story Emerges

As the investigation continued, more disturbing details came out. The federal prosecutor would later reveal in court that this wasn’t about helping a troubled teenager. The Daytona Beach News-Journal reported on what really happened during those hotel stays:

“Petting parties in hotel rooms.” This is what a minister of the Gospel was doing with a 16-year-old girl. This wasn’t about helping her find a job or escape an unhappy home. This was sexual abuse of a minor.

PART FOUR: THE CONGREGATION’S BLIND LOYALTY

Standing By Their Man

One of the most disturbing aspects of this whole story is how Dake’s congregation reacted. Instead of being horrified by these charges, many of them rallied around him. The Chicago Tribune reported on a church meeting held while Dake was in jail:

People were literally lying on the floor, shouting for God to save a man who had taken a teenage girl to hotels for “petting parties.” The board of deacons passed a resolution declaring they believed he was innocent, even though the evidence was overwhelming.

One deacon, named Archibald Swartzentrauber, made this statement:

But it wasn’t a lie. Dake would soon plead guilty to these charges.

The “Frameup” Theory

Many in Dake’s congregation convinced themselves that this was all a conspiracy against their pastor. The Chicago Tribune reported:

Mrs. Dorothy Dake, his wife, also promoted this conspiracy theory:

But this wasn’t a frameup. The federal government had evidence: hotel registrations, witnesses, and Emma’s own testimony. You don’t plead guilty to federal charges if you’re innocent.

Dake’s Jailhouse “Ministry”

Even while in jail awaiting trial, Dake couldn’t resist playing the role of the righteous minister. The Chicago Tribune reported on a bizarre scene:

The newspaper reported what Dake said to these prisoners:

The irony is thick here. A man accused of sexually abusing a minor is preaching to other prisoners about conscience and accepting God.

PART FIVE: THE GUILTY PLEA

The Trial Date Arrives

For months, Dake and his supporters maintained his innocence. His wife said it was all lies. His deacons said it was a frameup. His congregation passed resolutions supporting him. But when February 9, 1937 arrived, and Dake stood before Federal Judge F. A. Geiger in Milwaukee, everything changed.

The Kenosha News reported what happened:

He pleaded guilty. After all the denials, all the claims of innocence, all the accusations of frameups and conspiracies, Finis Dake stood before a federal judge and admitted his guilt.

The Courtroom Scene

The scene in the courtroom was dramatic. The Kenosha News described it:

Notice that even in pleading guilty, Dake was still trying to minimize what he had done. He admitted to taking the girl across state lines but claimed there were no “intimate relations.” But if that were true, why plead guilty to a Mann Act violation? The Mann Act specifically requires proof of immoral purpose.

The Kenosha News also reported that more than 100 of Dake’s parishioners were in the courtroom:

The Prosecutor’s Revelations

During the sentencing hearing, the federal prosecutor revealed even more disturbing details about Dake’s behavior. This wasn’t just about one girl and one trip:

He “frequently” left his church to have “petting parties” with high school girls. This reveals a pattern of predatory behavior, not a one-time mistake.

Dake’s Weak Defense

Even after pleading guilty, Dake tried to offer excuses. The Kenosha News reported:

But this explanation doesn’t match the facts. If his interest was “purely platonic” (meaning just friendship), why did he register at hotels with her as husband and wife? Why use a fake name? Why have “petting parties” in hotel rooms?

The News-Review from Oregon reported what Dake claimed his real motive was:

This is perhaps the most offensive excuse of all – hiding sexual abuse behind religious language.

The Sentence

Federal Judge F. A. Geiger sentenced Dake to six months in the Milwaukee House of Correction. This was actually a light sentence for such a serious federal crime. The Kansas City Star reported:

PART SIX: THE FAREWELL SERVICE – A STUDY IN DECEPTION

The Night Before Prison

On February 15, 1937, the night before Dake was to begin serving his prison sentence, he held a farewell service at his church. What happened that night reveals much about both Dake’s character and the dangerous hold he had over his congregation.

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram described the scene:

Think about this scene. A man who had just pleaded guilty to a federal sex crime involving a minor was being treated like a martyr. Twenty people claimed to be converted by the sermon of a convicted criminal about to go to prison.

Dake’s Shocking Statements

What Dake said during this service was even more disturbing. The Daytona Beach News-Journal reported his words:

Notice what Dake is doing here. He’s blaming the devil for his own choices. He’s not taking real responsibility. He’s not expressing genuine sorrow for what he did to Emma Barelli. He’s playing the victim.

Dake continued with even more self-serving statements:

Then came perhaps the most outrageous claim of all:

He claimed to be “better morally” right after pleading guilty to a sex crime involving a minor. This shows a complete lack of genuine repentance.

The “Happiest Man This Side of Heaven”

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported one of the most shocking statements of all:

A man going to prison for abusing a minor calls himself “the happiest man this side of heaven.” This shows no understanding of the seriousness of his crime.

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram also reported what Dake said about his wife:

The Congregation’s Response

The congregation’s response to all of this was deeply troubling. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported:

And one member made this statement:

Even after Dake pleaded guilty, his followers were still calling it a plot of the devil. They couldn’t accept that their leader was a criminal.

PART SEVEN: THE PRISON TERM

Beginning the Sentence

On February 15, 1937, Dake began serving his six-month sentence in the Milwaukee House of Correction. The Beaver Dam Daily Citizen reported on his arrival:

The Congregation During His Absence

While Dake was in prison, his congregation continued to support him. They didn’t find a new pastor. They didn’t close the church. Instead, his wife Dorothy led the services, and they waited for their convicted leader to return.

The Waukesha County Freeman reported on what happened at the church while Dake was gone:

Voliva, who was Dake’s religious rival in Zion, was essentially saying that Dake got off too easy – that he should have been in federal penitentiary, not just a house of correction.

What Dake Did in Prison

According to reports, Dake spent his time in prison writing. He claimed to be working on a Bible commentary. The Daytona Beach News-Journal reported:

Think about this: A man in prison for a sex crime against a minor was writing Bible commentary. This is the same commentary that would later become part of the Dake Annotated Reference Bible that millions of Christians would use.

PART EIGHT: THE RETURN FROM PRISON

July 1937 – The “Hero’s” Return

In July 1937, after serving five months of his six-month sentence (he was released early for good behavior), Dake returned to Zion and to his pulpit. The way he was received is shocking.

The Daily Review from Virginia reported on his first service back:

Notice the song they played: “His Grace is Greater Than Our Sins.” They were treating a convicted sex offender like a returning hero who had been forgiven by God.

Dake’s First Sermon Back

The Daily Review continued with details about what Dake said in his first sermon:

He made no direct reference to his crime. No apology to Emma Barelli or her family. No acknowledgment of the harm he had caused. Just an “old-fashioned love feast.”

The Daily Review also reported:

The Chicago Herald’s Report

The Iberia Sentinel quoted from the Chicago Herald and Examiner about Dake’s return:

“No impairment of spiritual power” – as if committing a federal sex crime against a minor shouldn’t affect someone’s spiritual authority!

The report continued with a disturbing scene:

The “New Elijah”

Perhaps the most blasphemous response came from members of his congregation who compared him to the prophet Elijah:

They called a convicted sex offender “the new Elijah.” This is blasphemy of the highest order. Elijah was a holy prophet of God. Dake was a convicted criminal who had abused a minor.

PART NINE: THE AFTERMATH AND IMPLICATIONS

What Happened to Emma Barelli?

While Dake returned to his pulpit and was celebrated by his congregation, what happened to his victim? The newspapers tell us some disturbing details:

Think about this injustice. The victim, a 16-year-old girl, was sent to industrial school (essentially a reform school), while her abuser got just six months and then returned to his pulpit. She was so traumatized that she escaped and became a fugitive. We don’t know what happened to Emma after that. The newspapers lose track of her story.

Dake’s Ministry Continues

Despite his conviction, Dake continued in ministry. He continued to preach, teach, and write. In fact, much of his most influential work came AFTER his conviction. The Atlanta Constitution’s obituary of Dake in 1987 revealed:

The obituary also noted:

Notice that the obituary makes no mention of his criminal conviction. It was as if it never happened.

The Books He Wrote

The Atlanta Constitution obituary listed the books Dake wrote:

One of his books was called “Bible Truths Unmasked.” The irony is painful – a man who had hidden his criminal behavior behind a mask of religiosity wrote a book about unmasking truth.

PART TEN: ANALYZING THE EVIDENCE

The Pattern of Deception

When we look at all the evidence together, we see a clear pattern of deception from Dake:

1. The Fake Names: He registered at hotels using the fake name “Christian Anderson” – even using a religious first name (Christian) as part of his deception.

2. The Multiple Hotels: This wasn’t one moment of weakness. He took Emma to hotels in Waukegan, Bloomington, and East St. Louis – a deliberate, planned series of stops.

3. The “Husband and Wife” Registration: He registered a 16-year-old girl as his wife, showing clear intent to deceive hotel staff and others.

4. The Pattern of Behavior: The prosecutor revealed this wasn’t about one girl – Dake had “frequently” left his church to have “petting parties” with groups of high school girls.

5. The Spiritual Manipulation: He used religious language to manipulate Emma, making her think this was about “getting religion.”

6. The Changing Stories: First he said he was helping her get a job. Then he said he was helping her escape an unhappy home. Then he said he just wanted to pray with her. The story kept changing.

The Lack of Genuine Repentance

True repentance involves several elements that were completely missing from Dake’s response:

1. Taking Full Responsibility: Dake blamed the devil, blamed his enemies, blamed everyone but himself. Even when he pleaded guilty, he tried to minimize what he had done.

2. Showing Genuine Sorrow: Instead of sorrow, Dake called himself “the happiest man this side of heaven” as he went to prison. This is not the response of someone who understands the evil of what they’ve done.

3. Making Restitution: There’s no record of Dake ever apologizing to Emma Barelli or her family, or trying to make amends for the harm he caused.

4. Accepting Consequences: Dake and his followers treated his prison sentence as persecution rather than deserved punishment for a crime.

5. Changing Behavior: Dake went right back to ministry, right back to teaching and preaching, as if nothing had happened.

The Danger of Blind Loyalty

One of the most disturbing aspects of this story is how Dake’s congregation responded. They show us what happens when people put loyalty to a leader above truth and righteousness:

1. They Denied Clear Evidence: Even when faced with hotel registrations, witness testimony, and Dake’s own guilty plea, many still insisted it was all a lie or frameup.

2. They Made Excuses: Instead of holding Dake accountable, they made excuses for him – it was the devil’s fault, it was his enemies’ fault, he was just trying to help.

3. They Minimized the Crime: They called it a “mistake” or said there was “no moral offense involved” even though it involved the sexual abuse of a minor.

4. They Elevated the Abuser: They called him “the new Elijah” and treated him like a returning hero rather than a convicted criminal.

5. They Ignored the Victim: In all the newspaper reports about the congregation’s response, there’s not one mention of concern for Emma Barelli or prayer for her healing.

PART ELEVEN: THE BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE

What the Bible Says About Leaders Who Fall

The Bible has very clear standards for those who would be teachers and leaders in the church. Let’s look at what Scripture says and compare it to Dake’s behavior:

How did Dake measure up to these standards?

• Above reproach? No – he was convicted of a federal crime.
• Faithful to his wife? No – he was taking a teenage girl to hotels.
• Self-controlled? No – he couldn’t control his lustful desires.
• Respectable? No – his behavior was scandalous.
• Good reputation with outsiders? No – he was a convicted criminal.

Teachers of God’s Word are held to a higher standard, not a lower one. Dake’s position as a minister made his crime worse, not better.

What the Bible Says About Protecting the Vulnerable

Jesus took the protection of young people and vulnerable believers extremely seriously. Dake didn’t just cause Emma to stumble – he actively preyed upon her.

Jesus repeated this warning in Luke, showing how seriously He takes the abuse of the vulnerable.

What the Bible Says About Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing

What was the fruit of Dake’s life at this time? Sexual abuse of a minor, deception, manipulation, and a complete lack of genuine repentance. This is not good fruit.

Dake was one of these wolves. He used his position to prey on the vulnerable.

What the Bible Says About Repentance

True biblical repentance looks very different from what Dake displayed:

Did Dake show godly sorrow? No. He called himself “the happiest man this side of heaven” while going to prison.

Did Dake have a broken and contrite heart? No. He was defiant and self-justifying.

What fruit did Dake produce? He went right back to ministry without any period of restoration or accountability.

PART TWELVE: THE CONNECTION TO DAKE’S THEOLOGY

Character and Doctrine

There’s an important connection between a teacher’s character and their doctrine. Jesus said we would know false teachers by their fruits. When someone shows such severe moral failure and lack of genuine repentance, we must examine their teachings very carefully.

The fact that Dake could commit such a serious crime and then return to ministry without genuine repentance raises serious questions:

1. His View of Sin: How seriously did Dake really take sin if he could minimize his own crimes?

2. His View of Authority: Did Dake’s abuse of his pastoral authority reflect a wrong view of spiritual leadership?

3. His View of Scripture: How could someone who claimed to know the Bible so well violate its clearest moral teachings?

4. His View of God: What kind of God did Dake believe in that would allow him to continue in ministry after such sin without repentance?

The Danger of Hyperliteralism

One of the characteristics of Dake’s Bible interpretation was extreme literalism. He would take passages that were clearly metaphorical or anthropomorphic and interpret them literally. This same inability to properly interpret and apply Scripture may have contributed to his moral failures.

For example, Dake might read passages about God’s forgiveness and grace and use them to excuse his own behavior, while ignoring passages about judgment, holiness, and the qualifications for ministry.

The Pattern of Deception

Just as Dake deceived hotels by using fake names, deceived Emma by claiming religious motives, and deceived his congregation by minimizing his crimes, we see a pattern of deception in his theological teachings as well.

Throughout his writings, Dake would:

• Redefine theological terms without telling readers
• Make claims about Hebrew and Greek without real knowledge of the languages
• Present his peculiar interpretations as if they were obvious facts
• Ignore centuries of Christian interpretation in favor of his own novel ideas

The same character that could deceive a teenage girl could also deceive Bible students.

PART THIRTEEN: LESSONS FOR THE CHURCH TODAY

The Importance of Church Discipline

One of the most tragic aspects of this story is the complete failure of church discipline. When Dake was arrested, charged, and convicted, his church should have:

1. Immediately removed him from ministry – At minimum, he should have been suspended pending investigation.

2. Conducted their own investigation – The church should have looked into these allegations seriously, not just assumed they were false.

3. Required genuine repentance – Even if they eventually restored him, it should have been after clear evidence of repentance and change.

4. Protected the vulnerable – The church’s first concern should have been for Emma and any other potential victims, not for Dake’s reputation.

5. Submitted to authorities – Romans 13 tells us to submit to governing authorities. The church should have cooperated with law enforcement, not treated them as enemies.

Instead, the church enabled Dake’s behavior and allowed him to return to ministry without any real accountability or restoration process.

The Danger of Personality Cults

The response of Dake’s congregation shows what happens when a church becomes a personality cult centered around one leader rather than around Christ:

Signs of a Personality Cult:

• The leader can do no wrong in the eyes of followers
• Any criticism of the leader is seen as an attack from Satan
• The leader’s word is treated as equal to or above Scripture
• Followers show blind loyalty even in the face of clear sin
• The leader is seen as specially anointed above other Christians
• Leaving the group or questioning the leader brings severe consequences

All of these signs were present in Dake’s church. This is not healthy Christianity – it’s cult-like behavior.

The Need for Discernment

This story shows why Christians must be discerning about the teachers and resources they use. Just because someone claims to know the Bible doesn’t mean they should be trusted. Just because someone can preach powerfully doesn’t mean they’re godly.

Questions to ask about any Bible teacher:

• What is their character like?
• Are they accountable to anyone?
• How do they respond to correction?
• Do their teachings align with historic Christian doctrine?
• What fruit does their ministry produce?
• How do they treat the vulnerable?
• Are there credible allegations of misconduct?

Protecting the Vulnerable

Churches today must learn from this tragedy and put measures in place to protect the vulnerable:

1. Background Checks: Anyone working with minors should undergo background checks.

2. Two-Adult Rule: No adult should be alone with a minor who isn’t their own child.

3. Open-Door Policies: Counseling and meetings should happen with doors open or windows visible.

4. Reporting Procedures: Clear procedures for reporting concerning behavior.

5. Training: Regular training on recognizing and preventing abuse.

6. Take Allegations Seriously: Never dismiss allegations without proper investigation.

The Importance of Genuine Repentance

The church today needs to understand what genuine repentance looks like. It’s not just saying sorry or blaming the devil. Real repentance involves:

1. Full Confession: Admitting exactly what was done without minimizing or excusing.

2. Accepting Responsibility: Not blaming others or circumstances.

3. Showing Sorrow: Genuine grief over the sin and its effects on others.

4. Making Amends: Trying to repair damage where possible.

5. Accepting Consequences: Not fighting against deserved punishment.

6. Changing Behavior: Taking concrete steps to ensure it doesn’t happen again.

7. Submit to Accountability: Allowing others to hold you accountable.

Dake showed none of these elements of genuine repentance.

PART FOURTEEN: THE COVER-UP AND HISTORICAL REVISION

The Silence of History

One of the most troubling aspects of this story is how successfully it has been hidden from history. Today, millions of Christians use the Dake Reference Bible without any knowledge of its author’s criminal conviction. How did this happen?

When you look at biographical materials about Dake published by his ministry or by those who promote his work, you find no mention of his conviction. His obituary in the Atlanta Constitution in 1987 made no mention of it. Books and articles about him skip from the 1930s to the 1940s as if nothing happened.

This is historical revision – deliberately hiding uncomfortable truths to protect someone’s reputation. But Christians, of all people, should be committed to truth.

Why This Information Was Hidden

There are several reasons why this information has been successfully hidden:

1. Pre-Internet Era: Dake’s crime happened in 1936-37, long before the internet. Newspaper archives weren’t easily searchable.

2. Different Location: The crime happened in Wisconsin/Illinois, but Dake later moved to Georgia. People in his new location might not have known.

3. Active Suppression: Those who knew likely actively suppressed this information to protect Dake’s ministry and book sales.

4. Financial Interests: The Dake Bible became very profitable. There were financial incentives to hide this information.

5. Tribal Loyalty: Many in Pentecostal/Charismatic circles who used Dake’s materials didn’t want to admit their favorite teacher was a convicted criminal.

The Importance of Truth

Jesus said “the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). Hiding truth, even uncomfortable truth, is not Christian behavior. The church must be committed to truth, even when it’s painful.

When we hide the sins of leaders, we:

• Enable future abuse
• Fail to protect the vulnerable
• Damage our witness to the world
• Show we care more about reputation than righteousness
• Become complicit in deception

The Right Response to Hidden Sin

When hidden sin from the past comes to light, the right response is:

1. Acknowledge It: Don’t deny or minimize what happened.

2. Learn From It: What can we learn to prevent similar situations?

3. Protect Others: Make sure people are aware so they can make informed decisions.

4. Examine the Fruit: Look at how this sin might have affected the person’s teachings or ministry.

5. Seek Truth: Commit to truth even when it’s uncomfortable.

PART FIFTEEN: THE VICTIMS WE FORGET

What About Emma?

In all the discussion about Dake, his ministry, and his Bible, one person is often forgotten: Emma Barelli. She was a real person, a real teenage girl whose life was devastated by Dake’s actions.

The last we hear of Emma in the newspaper accounts, she had escaped from the industrial school where she had been sent and was a fugitive. Think about that – the victim was institutionalized and became a fugitive, while the perpetrator returned to his pulpit.

We don’t know what happened to Emma after 1937. Did she ever recover from this trauma? Did she ever find healing? Did she ever have a normal life? We don’t know, because once Dake returned to his ministry, everyone forgot about his victim.

The Other Potential Victims

The prosecutor stated that Dake “frequently” had “petting parties” with groups of high school girls. This suggests Emma wasn’t his only victim. How many other girls were affected by Dake’s predatory behavior? We’ll likely never know.

This is one of the tragedies of covering up abuse – we never know the full extent of the damage. Other victims may have been too afraid or ashamed to come forward, especially seeing how Emma was treated.

The Secondary Victims

There were other victims of Dake’s crimes beyond those he directly abused:

1. His Wife: Dorothy Dake stood by her husband, but she was also a victim of his betrayal. He violated their marriage vows and humiliated her publicly.

2. His Children: Dake had an 8-year-old daughter at the time. She had to grow up with the knowledge that her father was a convicted sex offender.

3. His Genuine Followers: Those who sincerely followed Dake’s ministry thinking he was a man of God were deceived and manipulated.

4. The Church Universal: Every scandal involving a minister damages the witness of the entire church and makes it harder for people to trust genuine pastors.

The Importance of Victim Focus

Too often in church scandals, the focus is on the fallen leader – their reputation, their ministry, their restoration. But the biblical focus should be on the victims:

The church’s first priority should have been defending and protecting Emma, not protecting Dake’s ministry.

Justice for Emma should have been the church’s concern, not maintaining Dake’s reputation.

PART SIXTEEN: WHAT THIS MEANS FOR USERS OF THE DAKE BIBLE

An Uncomfortable Question

If you’ve been using the Dake Reference Bible, you’re probably asking yourself some uncomfortable questions right now. Should I keep using it? Can any good come from someone who did such evil? How do I process this information?

These are valid questions that deserve thoughtful answers.

The Principle of Fruit Inspection

Jesus gave us a clear principle for evaluating teachers:

The fruit of Dake’s life included:

• Sexual abuse of a minor
• Deception and lies
• Lack of genuine repentance
• Manipulation of spiritual authority
• Creating a personality cult

This is not good fruit. According to Jesus’ principle, we should be very wary of Dake’s teachings.

The Problem of Theological Errors

As other chapters in this book demonstrate, Dake’s Bible contains serious theological errors. His moral failure helps explain how someone could twist Scripture so badly – when you’re living in unrepentant sin, your ability to properly interpret God’s Word is compromised.

The Apostle Paul warned:

Someone living in unrepentant sin grieves and quenches the Holy Spirit. How can they properly interpret Scripture?

Practical Recommendations

If you’ve been using the Dake Bible, here are some practical recommendations:

1. Consider Switching: There are many excellent study Bibles available that weren’t written by convicted sex offenders. Consider switching to one of these.

2. Be Extra Careful: If you continue using Dake, be extra careful about his notes and interpretations. Check everything against other sources.

3. Don’t Promote It: Even if you keep using it personally, don’t recommend it to others, especially new believers who might not have discernment.

4. Warn Others: If you know others using the Dake Bible, share this information with them so they can make an informed decision.

5. Focus on Scripture: Remember that the Bible itself is God’s Word, not the notes. Focus on Scripture itself rather than any human commentary.

Alternative Study Bibles

There are many excellent study Bibles available that can replace the Dake Bible:

• ESV Study Bible
• NIV Study Bible
• MacArthur Study Bible
• Life Application Study Bible
• Reformation Study Bible
• CSB Study Bible
• NET Bible (with extensive notes)
• Fire Bible (for Pentecostal/Charismatic readers)

All of these provide helpful study notes without the theological errors and moral problems associated with Dake.

PART SEVENTEEN: THE BROADER PATTERN

Not an Isolated Incident

It would be comforting to think that Dake’s criminal behavior was an isolated incident, one terrible mistake in an otherwise godly life. But the evidence suggests otherwise.

The prosecutor revealed that Dake “frequently” left his church to have “petting parties” with high school girls. This wasn’t a one-time fall but a pattern of predatory behavior.

Moreover, Dake’s response after his conviction shows no real change. He minimized his crime, blamed others, showed no genuine repentance, and went right back to ministry. This suggests an unchanged heart.

The Connection to False Teaching

There’s often a connection between moral failure and false teaching. The Apostle Peter warned:

Notice the connection Peter makes between false teaching and “depraved conduct.” False teachers often have moral problems because the same pride and deception that leads to false teaching also leads to moral failure.

The Pattern in Church History

Throughout church history, we see this pattern repeated:

• Leaders who twist Scripture often have hidden moral failures
• Those who create personality cults often abuse their power
• Teachers who reject orthodox doctrine often reject biblical morality
• Ministers who won’t submit to accountability often have something to hide

Dake fits this pattern perfectly.

PART EIGHTEEN: RESPONDING TO OBJECTIONS

“But David Sinned Too”

Some might argue, “King David committed adultery and murder, but God still used him. Can’t God use Dake despite his sin?”

This comparison fails for several reasons:

1. David Genuinely Repented: Read Psalm 51. David showed genuine, broken-hearted repentance. Dake called himself “the happiest man this side of heaven” while going to prison.

2. David Accepted Consequences: David accepted God’s judgment and the consequences of his sin. Dake and his followers treated his punishment as persecution.

3. David’s Sin Wasn’t Against a Child: While David’s sin was terrible, it wasn’t the sexual abuse of a minor.

4. David Didn’t Continue in Ministry: David wasn’t allowed to build the temple because of his sin. There were lasting consequences.

“Judge Not Lest You Be Judged”

Others might say we shouldn’t judge Dake, citing Jesus’ words about not judging.

But Jesus also said:

We’re commanded to judge correctly. Moreover, Paul explicitly tells us to judge those inside the church:

Judging a teacher by their fruits, as Jesus commanded, is not wrong judgment but necessary discernment.

“That Was a Long Time Ago”

Some might argue that since this happened in 1937, it’s no longer relevant.

But:

• Dake never showed genuine repentance
• He continued teaching and his errors remain in print
• The Dake Bible is still widely used today
• Truth doesn’t have an expiration date
• The protection of the vulnerable is always relevant

“We Should Forgive”

Yes, Christians should forgive. But forgiveness doesn’t mean:

• Ignoring sin
• Refusing to warn others
• Allowing someone to continue in positions of authority
• Pretending it never happened
• Using their materials uncritically

We can forgive Dake while still warning others about his errors and crimes.

PART NINETEEN: THE LEGAL DOCUMENTS

Understanding the Mann Act

To fully understand the seriousness of Dake’s crime, we need to understand what the Mann Act actually said. The Mann Act, also known as the White Slave Traffic Act, was passed in 1910. The relevant section states:

“Any person who shall knowingly transport or cause to be transported, or aid or assist in obtaining transportation for, or in transporting, in interstate or foreign commerce, any woman or girl for the purpose of prostitution or debauchery, or for any other immoral purpose, or with the intent and purpose to induce, entice, or compel such woman or girl to become a prostitute or to give herself up to debauchery, or to engage in any other immoral practice… shall be deemed guilty of a felony.”

The penalty was up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000 (equivalent to about $140,000 today).

The Federal Indictment

The Chicago Tribune reported the specific language of Dake’s indictment:

Notice the specific legal language: “willfully and feloniously” – this means it was intentional and criminal. “For the purpose of debauchery and other immoral practices” – this is legal language for sexual purposes.

The Guilty Plea

On February 9, 1937, Dake pleaded guilty to these charges. A guilty plea in federal court is not entered lightly. The judge would have ensured that:

• Dake understood the charges against him
• Dake understood the consequences of pleading guilty
• Dake was pleading guilty voluntarily
• There was a factual basis for the guilty plea

Dake would have had to admit in court that the facts of the indictment were true.

CONCLUSION: THE LESSONS WE MUST LEARN

The Importance of This Information

Some might wonder why this information matters. Dake is dead. His crime was long ago. Why bring it up now? There are several crucial reasons:

1. His Materials Are Still Used: Millions of Christians still use the Dake Reference Bible without knowing about his criminal past.

2. Truth Matters: Christians should be people of truth. Hiding or ignoring truth is not Christian.

3. Protecting the Vulnerable: By exposing past abuse, we help protect potential future victims.

4. Understanding False Teaching: Dake’s moral failure helps explain his theological errors.

5. Learning from History: Those who don’t learn from history are doomed to repeat it.

The Seven Key Lessons

From this tragic story, there are seven key lessons every Christian should learn:

Lesson 1: Character Matters
You cannot separate a teacher’s character from their teaching. Bad trees don’t bear good fruit. When evaluating any Bible teacher or resource, we must consider the character and life of the teacher, not just their knowledge or speaking ability.

Lesson 2: Predators Exist in the Church
It’s naive and dangerous to think that predators don’t infiltrate churches. In fact, churches are often targeted by predators because Christians can be trusting and forgiving to a fault. We must be “wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16).

Lesson 3: Protect the Vulnerable
The church’s first priority must be protecting the vulnerable, especially children. This is more important than protecting reputations, ministries, or institutions. Jesus’ warnings about harming little ones are severe and should be taken seriously.

Lesson 4: Demand Accountability
Leaders who resist accountability, who create personality cults, who can’t be questioned or corrected – these are red flags. Biblical leadership is servant leadership, accountable leadership, transparent leadership.

Lesson 5: True Repentance Is Observable
Real repentance produces visible fruit. It’s not just words or emotions. It involves taking responsibility, making amends, accepting consequences, and changing behavior. Without these elements, repentance claims should be viewed skeptically.

Lesson 6: Truth Over Tribe
We must be committed to truth even when it hurts “our side” or “our tribe.” Covering up sin to protect a ministry or denomination is sinful itself. Truth and righteousness must come before institutional loyalty.

Lesson 7: Discernment Is Essential
Every Christian needs to develop biblical discernment. We cannot blindly follow any teacher or uncritically accept any resource. We must test everything against Scripture and be aware of the fruits of those who claim to teach God’s Word.

A Final Word to Victims

If you are reading this and you have been a victim of abuse by a religious leader, please know:

• It was not your fault
• God sees your pain and cares about your suffering
• Your story matters
• Healing is possible
• You are not alone
• There are people who will believe you and help you

Don’t let the failure of human leaders drive you away from God. God hates the abuse you suffered even more than you do. He is the defender of the oppressed and the healer of the brokenhearted.

A Final Warning to the Church

The church must learn from this story. We must:

• Take allegations seriously
• Protect the vulnerable above all
• Demand accountability from leaders
• Practice real church discipline
• Be committed to truth even when it hurts
• Judge teachers by their fruits
• Never allow personality cults to develop

If we fail to learn these lessons, we will see more Emma Barellis hurt and more wolves in sheep’s clothing deceiving the flock.

The Ultimate Judge

While Dake escaped full earthly justice (six months was a light sentence for his crime), he did not escape God’s justice. Hebrews 4:13 reminds us:

Every hidden sin will be exposed. Every victim will be vindicated. Every wolf in sheep’s clothing will be revealed. God is not mocked.

Closing Thoughts

This has been a difficult and disturbing story to tell. But it’s a necessary one. For too long, this information has been hidden, allowing Dake’s materials to spread without people knowing the truth about their author.

The sexual abuse of a minor by a religious leader is one of the most serious betrayals possible. It violates trust, destroys innocence, and damages faith. It cannot be minimized, excused, or forgotten.

As you consider this information, remember Emma Barelli. Remember that she was a real person, a real teenager, whose life was devastated by a predatory minister. Remember that while Dake returned to his pulpit and wrote his books, she became a fugitive, her life derailed.

And ask yourself: Should such a man’s teachings be trusted? Should his Bible notes guide anyone’s understanding of God’s Word? Should his books be promoted in our churches?

The answer should be clear.

May God grant His church the wisdom to discern truth from error, the courage to protect the vulnerable, and the commitment to righteousness even when it costs us. And may He bring healing to all who have been hurt by wolves in sheep’s clothing.

APPENDIX TO APPENDIX A: SOURCE VERIFICATION

For those who wish to verify this information independently, here are the key sources:

Primary Newspaper Sources:

• Chicago Tribune – May 27, 28, 29, 1936
• Kenosha News – May 27, 1936; February 9, 1937
• The Journal Times (Racine, WI) – May 28, 1936
• The South Bend Tribune – May 28, 1936
• The Oshkosh Northwestern – May 27, 1936
• Fort Worth Star-Telegram – February 16, 1937
• The News-Review (Oregon) – February 18, 1937
• The Belleville News-Democrat – May 27, 1936
• The Owensboro Messenger – May 28, 1936
• Baraboo News Republic – May 27, 1936
• The Daytona Beach News-Journal – February 10, 1937
• The Daily Review (Virginia) – July 19, 1937
• Iberia Sentinel – July 22, 1937
• The Waukesha County Freeman – February 15, 1937
• Beaver Dam Daily Citizen – February 15, 1937
• Kansas City Star – February 9, 1937
• Belleville Daily Advocate – May 27, 1936
• The Atlanta Constitution – July 11, 1987 (obituary)

Key Facts Established by Multiple Sources:

• Dake was arrested on May 26, 1936
• He was charged with violating the Mann Act
• The victim was Emma Barelli, age 16, from Kenosha, Wisconsin
• Dake took her to hotels in Waukegan, Bloomington, and East St. Louis
• He registered them as “Mr. and Mrs. Christian Anderson”
• He pleaded guilty on February 9, 1937
• He was sentenced to six months in prison
• He served approximately five months
• He returned to his pulpit in July 1937

All of these facts are confirmed by multiple independent newspaper sources from the time period.

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