It was a muggy evening in August 1934. The congregation of the Cullowhee Mountain Church of God was listening intently to a sermon delivered by their minister, Albert Teaster. A man walked in and placed a box in front of Teaster. It was not a gift; rather, it was a challenge.

Two weeks earlier, Albert Teaster had preached on Mark 16: 15-18. This is the passage that says that believers are able to take up poisonous snakes and not be hurt. This man, in the hopes of mocking Rev. Teaster, had brought a five-foot long rattle snake to the service. The congregation held their breath as Teaster reached into the box and lifted out the snake.

Quick as lightning, the reptile struck, biting deep into Teaster's right hand. Teaster dropped the snake, but then, in a show of either great faith or great …