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

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

John invites Daniel to share his story about his experiences with the message cult following William Branham. Daniel recounts his journey, growing up in the message, the doubts and realizations he experienced, and his ultimate decision to leave. He describes the insular nature of the message, the contradictions in Branham’s teachings, and the damaging effects of these doctrines on individuals and families. John and Daniel reflect on the divisions within message churches, the weight of legalistic expectations, and the liberating discovery of the gospel of Jesus Christ outside the message. They discuss the importance of seeking the truth, confronting contradictions, and encouraging others to evaluate their beliefs critically.

Their conversation highlights the significant flaws in Branham’s teachings, such as false prophecies and altered doctrines, as well as the broader issues within the message movement. They conclude with an emphasis on the simplicity of the gospel and the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ. Their discussion offers hope and encouragement to those searching for spiritual freedom and truth.

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

Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCGGZX3KChino's YouTube Channel:

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

John and Chino discuss the impact of dress codes on individuals leaving strict religious movements, emphasizing the divergence between biblical modesty and the interpretations enforced by legalistic groups. Chino recounts his personal struggles with such rules, particularly after leaving his religious group, where even minor changes like adding earrings to a wardrobe caused interpersonal tensions. The conversation delves into Hobart Freeman’s teachings and the origins of his emphasis on dress codes, tracing it back to his Brethren Church background and his eventual role in shaping the rigid dress expectations in Faith Assembly. They explore how legalism often leads to hypocrisy, as evidenced by inconsistent practices among church leaders.

The discussion also highlights Freeman’s theological journey, from his early influences at Grace Seminary to his adoption of stricter doctrines, including his controversial teachings on women’s attire. Chino humorously critiques the absurdity of certain dress restrictions, like avoiding specific shoes or purses based on questionable interpretations. Both John and Chino underscore the broader consequences of legalism on Christian practice, lamenting its focus on minor issues while neglecting virtues like love and grace. They conclude by reflecting on the necessity of critical thinking in interpreting scripture and overcoming the detrimental effects of such teachings.

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

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

John and Jed engage in an in-depth discussion exploring the complexities and consequences of fasting, particularly within religious and health contexts. They contrast the benefits of medically supervised fasting with the potential physical, mental, and emotional risks associated with its misuse in spiritual environments. Drawing on their personal experiences and observations, they delve into how fasting has been used as a tool for spiritual discipline, as well as a mechanism for control and manipulation in certain communities.

Their conversation highlights the impact of fasting on mental health, including its ability to exacerbate existing conditions or trigger new ones. They examine cultural and historical practices of fasting, the stigmas surrounding medical care in religious contexts, and the importance of fostering a healthy relationship with one’s body. By reflecting on their experiences, they aim to provide insights for those navigating similar challenges and encourage critical thinking about these practices.

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

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

John invites JoAnn, a former member of the Golden Dawn sect associated with William Branham’s message. JoAnn recounts her upbringing in the sect, the isolation it enforced, and the rigid legalism, particularly for women. She explains her family’s deep involvement and how the sect’s beliefs shaped their lives, including relocating to follow Branham’s ministry. The discussion touches on themes of indoctrination, isolation, and the psychological impact of living under strict cult-like rules. JoAnn shares her journey of breaking free, the challenges of leaving such an environment, and her experiences with therapy and recovery. Her story highlights the struggles many face when leaving controlling religious groups, including mental health challenges and the difficulty of reconciling their past beliefs with new understandings.

The conversation delves into the dynamics of control within the sect, the evolution of its practices, and the role of legalism. JoAnn reflects on the generational indoctrination that perpetuated the system and her eventual realization of the contradictions within Branham’s teachings. John relates to her experiences, sharing his path out of the sect and the broader context of how such movements manipulate and isolate followers. Both express hope that sharing their stories will inspire and support others in similar situations.

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

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

John and Chino discuss topics related to historical religious research, particularly the effects of authoritarian teachings and abuses within certain groups. The discussion transitions into exploring the systemic issues within these groups, such as isolation, lack of education, and strict adherence to doctrines that often led to psychological and physical abuse. Chino shares personal experiences and insights into the investigative reporting about abuses and misconduct in such communities, including reflections on his pastoral experiences. The conversation emphasizes the importance of professional intervention and accountability in addressing abuse.

Chino recounts details about the handling of abuse cases and the psychological effects of authoritarian religious teachings on children and families. John draws parallels between religious control tactics and broader sociopolitical manipulations, illustrating how indoctrination impacts individuals and communities. They agree on the need for transparency, professional help, and a clear separation between pastoral duties and legal accountability when dealing with such crimes. Both underscore the gravity of abuse and the long-lasting trauma it inflicts on survivors.

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

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

John and Bob discuss the challenges of critical thinking within religious movements, particularly reflecting on their personal experiences and observations. They explore topics like the use of “positive confession” in faith settings, the evolution of Pentecostalism and the Latter Rain movement, and the persistence of spiritual warfare ideologies. They highlight the tension between ancient worldviews and modern critical analysis, questioning the consistency of beliefs about healing, spiritual entities, and divine intervention. Their dialogue underscores the importance of questioning assumptions and pursuing an individual journey of understanding rather than echoing inherited beliefs.

They further delve into the cultural and historical shifts that shaped Pentecostalism, the manipulation of faith narratives for personal or financial gain, and the global contrasts in Christian theology. Through a mix of humor, curiosity, and skepticism, they challenge listeners to critically examine the roots of their faith and the societal implications of unquestioned beliefs. The conversation ends on a reflective note, emphasizing humility and the value of dialogue in uncovering truth.

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

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

John invites Renee, a former member of Christ Gospel Church, to share her experiences with the church and the struggles she faced during her upbringing. Renee describes how her family’s involvement in the church led to personal trauma, especially surrounding the actions of her father. She recounts how her father’s moral failings were overlooked by church authorities, resulting in a lack of support for her family. Renee talks about the control and manipulation exercised by church leaders, particularly through a committee called “The Witness,” which made major life decisions for members, including her family. She explains how the church’s environment, rife with emotional abuse, left her struggling to reconcile her faith and led her to seek healing outside the confines of the church.

As the conversation unfolds, John and Renee discuss the similarities between Christ Gospel Church and other cult-like movements, including William Branham’s following and the New Apostolic Reformation. Renee expresses gratitude for the painful experiences that helped her leave the church and recounts how connecting with authentic Christian communities provided her with the emotional support she needed to begin healing. Throughout the discussion, the emphasis remains on the deep emotional wounds caused by spiritual abuse, the difficult journey of deprogramming, and finding peace and authenticity in a more balanced expression of faith.

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

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

John and Chino discuss various aspects of control and abuse in authoritarian religious groups, focusing on the teachings and practices of Hobart Freeman and their impact on women. They explore how doctrines around birth control, gender roles, and marital relations imposed significant physical, emotional, and psychological tolls on women in the Faith Assembly movement. The conversation highlights the broader implications of these practices, including how leadership structures manipulate members and suppress dissent under the guise of spiritual authority.

The dialogue transitions into a critique of cult-like governance in religious communities, comparing them to broader evangelical practices. John and Chino emphasize the need for accountability among leaders and support for survivors. They also reflect on personal experiences with manipulative leadership and the psychological effects on those involved. The episode concludes with a tribute to the resilience of women who endured these hardships and a call for continued exposure of harmful practices within these movements.

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

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

John and Jed discuss the inner workings of the International House of Prayer (IHOP) and its controversial "Bridal Paradigm" teaching. They delve into how Mike Bickle and IHOP use the metaphor of the Church as the “bride” of Christ, waiting to be united with Jesus, the “groom.” While inspired by biblical passages, this doctrine has been critiqued for its emphasis on purity, devotion, and apocalyptic anticipation, and some see it as taking on an unsettling, even sexualized, interpretation. Learn how the Bridal Paradigm shapes IHOP’s community ethos, with lasting effects on those who were immersed in this world.

They also explore the connections between IHOP’s teachings and the broader Latter Rain and New Apostolic Reformation movements, showing how shared themes like fasting, prophecy, and hierarchy create a complex network of influence. Through personal stories and historical context, Jed reveals how IHOP’s teachings have impacted individual lives and discuss the larger implications of unchecked religious authority. This is a deep dive into one of the most influential yet controversial corners of modern charismatic Christianity.

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

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

John invites Melissa Entas to shares her spiritual journey and escape from the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR). Melissa’s story begins with her deep involvement in various religious movements, particularly IHOP (International House of Prayer) and the Vineyard, influenced by her father, Wade Henkin. Over nearly three decades, she became embedded in the NAR movement, only to experience disillusionment through her discovery of deceptive practices, including spiritual abuse and false teachings. She details the experiences that led to her deliverance in 2020, such as witnessing false prophecy and demonic influences in the church. The interview reveals the profound spiritual impact these movements had on her life, including how they shaped her early faith and how she eventually found freedom through personal revelations and studying scripture.

John and Melissa discuss the stark differences between true Christianity and what she describes as spiritualism masquerading as Christian teaching within the NAR. As they move through Melissa’s life, the podcast reveals the dangerous allure of charismatic movements that focus on power, prophecy, and personal elevation rather than character and scripture. Melissa explains how these teachings led to the suppression of true Christian virtues such as humility, repentance, and godly character. They reflect on the healing process and offer advice to others facing similar circumstances, emphasizing the importance of prayer, community, and a return to biblical truths. The conversation concludes with Melissa expressing gratitude for her escape and newfound peace, and John offering his thoughts on deliverance and spiritual recovery.