Trevor Tyson sold his successful software company for a hefty sum, however isn't happy with the terms. The contract stipulates that the sale includes all additional programs he develops for the next three years. With two new software programs he wants to market, Tyson comes up with a scheme to distract the buyer in hopes of keeping them from finding out about his other programs. He becomes a "street preacher" and hires a marketing company with Hollywood experience to help implement the "miracles" he incorporates into his "act." Calling himself Brother James, Tyson attracts a rather large following, including people in D.C. who are concerned because his "message" sounds like he's advocating revolution. Chief Wasserman of the San Diego police department is asked by those in D.

C. for a report. Bishop Bone, in town speaking to California police officers, is brought in by Wasserman to assist, and asked to provide his opinion about whether the man is preaching sedation or not. Bone agrees to assist, and in the process inadvertently becomes part of a media report linking him with Tyson's preaching. The bad publicity causes Bone's bank clients back home in Mississippi to end their legal relationship with him. Before he can correct the mistake, Tyson is murdered, and Bone is charged with the man's death. Bone must now somehow solve Tyson's murder in order to clear himself and repair his damaged professional reputation.