Support the show:

https://www.patreon.com/branham

Available on Spotify, Google, and Apple Podcasts:

https://william-branham.org/podcast

Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:

Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1735160962

Chino's YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@chinodross

John and Chino discuss how religious teachings from figures like Hobart Freeman and William Branham distorted the concept of faith, especially in relation to physical health. They explore how these teachings discouraged medical and dental care, even in cases of severe pain or deformity, emphasizing instead a rigid, unbiblical faith doctrine. Chino shares personal and listener stories, including one about a survivor who suffered years of dental neglect due to these harmful teachings, and how basic care like orthodontics or false teeth were condemned as worldly or fleshly. The conversation also touches on Branham’s contradictions—criticizing cosmetic enhancements while secretly using them himself—and how both Branham and Freeman emphasized immediate physical restoration over biblical hope in eternal life.

The discussion expands into the broader theology of hope, faith, and love, critiquing how cultic environments weaponized faith while suppressing biblical virtues like hope. Chino contrasts Freeman’s harsh teachings with Paul’s encouragement of love as the greatest virtue. The two reflect on the cognitive dissonance created when followers are taught to deny reality—aging, illness, or personal suffering—in pursuit of unrealistic faith outcomes. They advocate for returning to scripture with fresh eyes, letting the Bible speak plainly, and rejecting destructive religious frameworks. Ultimately, they urge listeners to let go of harmful teachings, seek healing, and embrace a grounded, biblical faith centered on hope and love.