Support the show:

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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

Chino's Youtube Channel:

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

John and Chino discuss the legacy of Hobart Freeman, exploring how his doctrines evolved from an encouraging message of faith healing into an authoritarian system of legalism, fear, and disinformation. Drawing from personal experiences and deep historical research, they trace the development of Freeman’s theology and its devastating consequences, including tragic stories of people denied medical care in pursuit of what Freeman taught as “divine order.” Chino also reflects on his own past involvement in Freeman’s ministry and how critical thinking, biblical literacy, and historical context eventually helped him and others disentangle from these damaging teachings.

The discussion broadens to examine the role of extra-biblical sources in promoting fringe doctrines. John exposes how William Branham and others used apocryphal texts and misunderstood ancient literature—such as the Book of Enoch and Dead Sea Scrolls—to construct wild end-times narratives, including UFO teachings. Both hosts critique the fear-based manipulation common to Freeman, Branham, and similar groups, highlighting how false teachings often hinge on misused scripture and pseudo-research. The episode concludes with promises of future deep dives into doctrinal extremism, spiritual abuse, and the misuse of ancient texts to justify modern cult ideologies.

______________________

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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

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/1735160962Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCGGZX3K John and Darrell discuss Darrell's personal journey, touching on topics such as his early experiences with cultish teachings, the isolation of growing up in a restrictive religious environment, and the impact of indoctrination. Darrell reflects on the struggles of living under tight control, including strict rules around dress, behavior, and social interactions. He contrasts his experiences with those of peers who were not raised in such environments, illustrating how deeply ingrained beliefs affected both his family life and personal development. He also discusses the dangers of faith healing and the harm caused by leaders manipulating their followers' faith, leading to tragic outcomes. Through these experiences, Darrell delves into the process of deconstruction, seeking to understand the differences between programming and genuine transformation, and how this journey impacted his adult life.

As they talk, John and Darrell explore the absurdities of their shared upbringing, like the practice of fasting during church camps, and how Darrell rebellious nature led him to question and eventually step away from the cultish environment. They reflect on the emotional weight of these experiences and how they shaped their worldview. Darrell shares more personal stories about the pressures to conform, the challenges of growing up in a community that rejected mainstream culture, and the process of finding a more balanced perspective as he deconstructs his past.

Support the show:

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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/1735160962Come Out of Her My People Vol II:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DNFN2XYR

In this episode, John and Charles examine the pivotal yet controversial role of Lee Vayle within the development of the William Branham movement. They trace his journey from a Canadian evangelist to a central figure in the Message, highlighting how Vayle’s proximity to Branham afforded him unique influence. Through roles such as co-editor of foundational publications and Branham’s self-declared theological explainer, Vayle helped codify and interpret doctrine, often manipulating sermon content to craft a coherent theological narrative. His deep involvement in publishing “20th Century Prophet” and “The Exposition of the Seven Church Ages” positioned him as an architect of key doctrinal texts, even as it ignited fierce internal controversy.

As the conversation unfolds, the hosts unpack Vayle’s doctrine of the “Parousia,” in which Christ’s return was redefined as a two-phase event beginning in 1963. This reinterpretation, drawn from Jehovah’s Witness theology and embraced by the message community, ultimately fractured it. The core of the schism arose when Vayle preached that Christ had vacated the mercy seat—ending His intercessory role—which most believers interpreted as declaring salvation closed. Despite William Branham’s own approval of Vayle’s work, backlash from the message community forced a shift toward verbatim transcript publication, culminating in Vayle’s resignation. The episode closes by connecting Vayle’s theology with present-day movements, emphasizing the heretical implications of doctrines that elevated Branham’s words above scripture.

______________________

– Support the channel: https://www.patreon.com/branham

– Subscribe to the channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBSpezVG15TVG-lOYMRXuyQ

– Visit the website: https://william-branham.org

– Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WilliamBranhamOrg

– Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@william.m.branham

– Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wmbhr

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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 the evolution of Hobart Freeman’s teachings, focusing on how a joyful belief in divine healing gradually transformed into a controlling and isolating doctrine. They trace the trajectory of Freeman’s message from its charismatic beginnings in 1966 to its eventual rejection of doctors, medicine, and even minor expressions of physical weakness. The discussion outlines how a once-celebrated emphasis on healing morphed into an exclusive ideology that redefined salvation itself, leading followers into a world of fear, shame, and strict doctrinal loyalty.

Through personal stories and observations, they reflect on the psychological impact of being part of such a group. Chino recounts the early excitement of discovering Freeman’s message, only to later recognize the harmful imbalance in its application—especially in how communion services came to center entirely around physical healing. John adds parallels with similar movements and shares how remnants of this ideology can continue to affect people years after leaving. Together, they provide a sobering examination of how good intentions can turn into rigid systems, emphasizing the need for balance, grace, and a return to foundational beliefs.

Support the show:

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Available on Spotify, Google, and Apple Podcasts:

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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 Jed discuss the controversial roots and ongoing legal implications surrounding prominent figures in the Pentecostal and Charismatic worlds, particularly those associated with the International House of Prayer in Kansas City. They trace the development of modern faith movements back to early 20th-century personalities like John Alexander Dowie, Jack Coe, and Charles Parham, uncovering patterns of exaggerated healing claims, financial exploitation, and questionable medical practices. These cases often skirted legal accountability by invoking religious freedom, setting a precedent that complicates prosecution to this day.

The conversation shifts to more recent legal battles, including defamation suits and growing calls for justice from those who have come forward about misconduct. Jed shares firsthand experiences from his time within IHOPKC, highlighting a pattern of silence and marginalization of those who attempt to report harm. He also brings attention to new legislative efforts in Missouri aimed at removing outdated limitations that prevent survivors from pursuing accountability. The discussion closes on a hopeful note, recognizing the strength of those advocating for reform and systemic change.

Support the show:

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Available on Spotify, Google, and Apple Podcasts:

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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 Bill explore the deeply personal and spiritual impact of life inside the Gospel Tabernacle, a sect rooted in the teachings of William Souters. Bill recounts how his family was drawn into the group during a time of vulnerability and how their early experiences, including intense control and legalistic teachings, gradually normalized what he later came to understand as cult-like behavior. He shares how Souters’ group blurred lines between spirituality and authoritarianism, focusing more on conformity and pastoral control than scriptural depth or authentic community. Over time, Bill realized the group’s heavy emphasis on rules and external appearances left little room for true spiritual growth or personal understanding of faith.

The conversation touches on theological inconsistencies, hidden histories, and parallels between the Souters group and other movements such as Branhamism and the New Apostolic Reformation. Bill describes how the sect masked itself in biblical language while discouraging personal study or questioning of leadership. He shares stories of spiritual manipulation, prophetic distortions, and a lack of doctrinal teaching. As he transitioned out, Bill found deeper meaning through personal Bible study and a brief time with Calvary Chapel. Reflecting on his experience, he offers advice to others still inside: question the teachings, study scripture for yourself, and don’t be afraid to seek truth outside of authoritarian structures.

Support the show:

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Available on Spotify, Google, and Apple Podcasts:

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Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:

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

John and Bob discuss the psychological, spiritual, and emotional complexities of leadership failure within modern religious systems, especially those rooted in deliverance ministry culture. Drawing from personal experience, including their involvement in the rise of Kansas City Fellowship and later counseling roles, they reflect on the lack of accountability structures, the pursuit of affirmation and significance, and the dangers of narcissism in top-down church models. The conversation reveals how brokenness, inner struggles, and unresolved trauma often drive individuals into positions of leadership, where they are both idolized and isolated—making failure almost inevitable.

The conversation also addresses the broader cultural shifts in Christianity, including the rise and fall of megachurches, scandals from the 1980s to the present, and the recurring cycles of ministerial burnout and moral collapse. They critique the corporate church structure for fostering performance-driven personas disconnected from genuine community and accountability. Bob introduces the concept of “The Joseph Company” as a response to this crisis, working with leaders who have hit bottom and are seeking restoration. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of humility, teachability, and relational healing as the only sustainable path forward for both leaders and followers.

Support the show:

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Available on Spotify, Google, and Apple Podcasts:

https://william-branham.org/podcast

Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:

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

Come Out of Her My People Vol II:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DNFN2XYR

John and Charles discuss the rise and collapse of one of the most extreme offshoots of the William Branham sect: the Thunders movement. Beginning with Branham’s cryptic references to the “seven thunders,” they explain how the mystery cult mentality embedded in the message led followers to seek hidden meanings and secret paths to “rapturing faith.” Joseph Coleman emerged as the main figure who claimed to have revealed this mystery, tying the seven thunders to the “stature of a perfect man” sermon and promoting a diagram that became central to Thunders churches. His doctrine evolved into a highly structured system involving echoes, ecstatic worship, and bizarre interpretations of Old Testament passages to set prophetic timelines. His methods drew thousands of followers across North America, Europe, the Caribbean, and especially Africa, where figures like Apostle Roscoe continued expanding the movement.

They also detail key figures such as Bob Lambert, who may have originated some Thunders concepts before being murdered in 1973 under mysterious circumstances. The conversation turns to the rise and eventual downfall of Joseph Coleman, touching on financial scandals, failed prophetic timelines, and the authoritarian control exercised by church leaders. As Coleman’s health declined and chaos unfolded—including a scandal involving a cocaine-addicted successor and the imposition of fasting and sleeplessness on church members—the movement fractured. The story concludes with reflections on how the Thunders group followed a long historical pattern of British Israelite prophecy, arbitrary biblical interpretation, and repeated failed predictions, leading to harm, disillusionment, and a cycle of theological recycling that continues today.

Support the show:

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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 explore the early life, theology, and myth-building of Hobart Freeman, comparing his teachings to William Branham and the broader Word of Faith and Latter Rain movements. They reflect on how historic events like the 1937 flood were mythologized for spiritual capital, and how difficult childhood experiences and personal illness may have shaped Freeman’s obsession with healing and prosperity. John draws a connection between the desperate search for healing and the susceptibility to fantasy narratives, likening Freeman’s storytelling to the over-the-top promises found in comic book ads of the 1950s.

Chino brings in firsthand accounts of early Freeman followers, including one who studied both Bible and psychology to understand Freeman’s psyche. They highlight how critical thinking and knowing a minister’s background can protect people from manipulation. Through humor, personal stories, and pointed examples, the discussion illustrates how simplistic, gimmick-style preaching replaced serious, contextual teaching. The hosts argue that many spiritual leaders used personal suffering as fuel for exaggerated theology, which not only hurt their followers but ultimately ensnared them as well.