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Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:

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

Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCGGZX3K

John and Cynthia discuss the history and impact of the Pentecostal and Charismatic movements, focusing on their connections to the New Apostolic Reformation. They explore how figures such as John Wimber and Lonnie Frisbee influenced the development of the shepherding movement and its authoritarian structure. The conversation delves into the ties between early Pentecostal revivalists, including William Branham, and how their teachings contributed to later movements such as the Word of Faith and prosperity gospel. Cynthia shares personal experiences from her time in the movement, highlighting its hierarchical nature and the spiritual damage it caused to many followers.

As they examine historical documents and testimonies, they uncover the structural similarities between the shepherding movement and present-day NAR organizations. They discuss how the movement’s leaders manipulated scripture to enforce submission and control over their followers. The conversation also touches on the commercialization of faith, the prevalence of multi-level marketing tactics in religious organizations, and the shift from biblical discipleship to authoritarian leadership. They conclude with a discussion on the importance of returning to scripture as the foundation of faith, rather than relying on modern religious figures who distort its teachings.