John and Chino discuss Hobart Freeman's controversial teaching on divine healing, particularly the delay between prayer and healing, a doctrine supported by anecdotal stories and questionable interpretations of scripture. They examine Freeman's use of Mark 11:24 and critique the influence of exaggerated revivalist figures such as Franklin Hall, Smith Wigglesworth, and Jack Coe. The conversation explores how Freeman built his theology on unverifiable claims and how this affected his followers—many of whom were discouraged from seeking medical help, resulting in preventable suffering or death. They also contrast biblical examples of healing, which were instant or near-instant, with the prolonged, unfulfilled expectations created by Freeman's "manifestation" doctrine.

Throughout the discussion, Chino recounts his personal experience with fasting and provides a physiological explanation for altered perceptions during extended fasts, offering a grounded critique of revivalist myths. John and Chino reflect on how easily sensational stories can be accepted when cloaked in religious authority and discuss the psychological manipulation that accompanies uncritical belief. They emphasize the urgent need for critical thinking and doctrinal accountability, especially when lives are at stake. The episode concludes with a reflection on how this movement's legacy continues through modern charismatic leaders who still draw inspiration from these self-proclaimed "God's generals."

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Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:

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John and Laura discuss the deceptive legacy of William Branham and how his influence continues to shape modern religious movements. John shares his personal journey of leaving a spiritually abusive sect, discovering the true gospel for the first time, and confronting the hypocrisy and secrecy that defined his former religious environment. Laura echoes similar experiences from her own background, highlighting patterns of hidden misconduct and the emotional toll of being raised under manipulative systems. Together, they emphasize the need for honesty, exposure, and healing for those affected.

The conversation traces the historical and ideological roots of Branhamism, including its ties to white supremacist ideologies, the Ku Klux Klan, and early 20th-century political movements. John explains how Branham's theology was influenced by Roy Davis, a former Klan leader, and how this blend of religious legalism and racial theories evolved into the Latter Rain and New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) movements. The pair discuss Branham's mental health struggles, his shifting prophecies, and the ongoing idolization of his persona within various charismatic circles. The episode closes with a preview of a future discussion on the Seven Mountain Mandate and its historical parallels.

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Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:

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John and Joe discuss the journey out of authoritarian religion and into a simpler, biblically grounded faith. Joe shares his background growing up Catholic and the spiritual awakening that occurred after the birth of his first child. Driven by wonder and conviction, he set out to read the Bible from beginning to end, expecting to prove his Catholic roots but instead discovering deep personal conviction and transformation. The discussion reflects the shock of entering the charismatic and evangelical world, the allure of emotionalism, and the subtle manipulations that shift focus from Christ to church leaders. Joe describes his experiences navigating charismatic churches, touching on issues of misplaced zeal, revivalism, and emotional highs that often replaced scriptural grounding.

As the conversation unfolds, the two reflect on the importance of critical thinking, humility, and rediscovering the centrality of Christ in faith. They critique movements that elevate pastors to "movie star" status, where challenging leadership becomes taboo and biblical discernment is discouraged. Joe candidly describes the impact on his family and the difficulties of course-correcting after years inside high-control religious environments. The discussion closes with a call to return to scripture, prioritize Jesus, and avoid the cultural entrapments that often masquerade as Christianity.

______________________

Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:

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John and Steve discuss the intersection of Russian mysticism and modern charismatic extremism, beginning with a humorous account of a road trip through Houston that leads into a serious exploration of converging apostasy from both the political right and left. They contrast bumper sticker slogans to introduce the overlap between nationalist rhetoric and esoteric spirituality. This opens a deep dive into neoplatonic angelology in music and pop theology, especially Trisha Yearwood's "Bringing the Angels," which Steve argues mirrors mystical beliefs about calling down supernatural powers through human will—a trend also observed in Latter Rain and NAR movements.

They trace how charismatic extremism mirrors historic Russian sects such as the Khlysts (Khlysty), led by figures who claimed to be Christ and used ecstatic rituals, self-flagellation, and euphoric dance. John connects this directly to William Branham and later figures in the NAR who blur the line between prophet and messiah. As they examine how these mystical movements migrated from Russia to the U.S. and Canada, they expose disturbing parallels—such as public nudity, arson, and authoritarian religiosity—while tying in American Christian identity teachings, Branham's relationship with political figures, and occult influencers. The conversation ends with a preview of a future episode continuing this historical analysis.

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Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:

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John and Bob discuss the historical and theological roots of dominionism, tracing its lineage from ancient tribalism through Christian Identity and Latter Rain theology, to its modern manifestation in the New Apostolic Reformation. They examine how belief systems have always included some form of power struggle, with dominionism merely being the latest iteration of an age-old human tendency. Drawing from ancient history, biblical narratives, and personal experiences, the conversation challenges the modern evangelical lens that sanitizes scripture and overlooks the broader, often troubling context in which it was written. They critique how the Bible is often misused to support narrow political or religious agendas, instead of being viewed as a complex historical and spiritual text.

The discussion also explores how religious leaders have shaped—and sometimes distorted—the nature of God to reflect their own brokenness, using dogma to enforce conformity rather than fostering genuine transformation. Through comparisons with Islamic eschatology, ancient conquests, the Catholic Church, and even the dynamics of the early Israelite tribes, the conversation makes a case for humility, nuance, and a multi-perspective view of theology and history. Mental health, elitism, and the dangerous allure of theocratic control also come into play, particularly in reference to recent controversies and leaders in the NAR. The episode closes with a call to reconsider how we view both scripture and leadership, especially when distorted theology can perpetuate abuse or drive people away from real healing.

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Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:

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John and Charles discuss the roots of the modern deliverance movement and its deep ties to the Latter Rain revival and the rise of the New Apostolic Reformation. They open by challenging the manipulative theatrics often seen in deliverance circles, emphasizing how these practices prey on those lacking critical thinking. Charles focuses on identifying whether post-message movements are safe for former followers, while John stresses transparency in documenting the historical record—especially when modern ministries attempt to erase or sanitize their origins.

A major focus is Derek Prince, his involvement in the Latter Rain offshoots, and his central role in the Shepherding Movement. Though Prince later distanced himself from the movement, Charles points out that his teachings—especially on authoritarian five-fold ministry and harmful deliverance doctrines—remained consistent throughout his career. They critique the cult-like structures built on these teachings and set the stage for the next discussion on how figures like John Wimber and Lonnie Frisbee helped spread this ideology through the Jesus People Movement.

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Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:

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John and Chino discuss the tragic impact of divine healing doctrines in faith-based groups, beginning with personal reflections and experiences. Their conversation highlights how misinformation and conspiracy theories in religious communities can lead to dangerous health decisions. Chino then shares the coroner's report detailing Hobart Freeman's death from untreated diabetes, illustrating the severe consequences of rejecting medical care. They read and reflect on an email from a former member of Freeman's Faith Assembly, revealing how cult-like environments restrict access to information and suppress critical thought, especially around death and illness.

The episode explores the long-term emotional and spiritual aftermath for those who left Faith Assembly, including interviews and personal stories from survivors. They trace the doctrinal lineage from early Pentecostal figures like Dowie and Bosworth through William Branham and onto Hobart Freeman. The discussion reveals how core theological errors—such as misinterpretation of scripture, especially Mark 11:24—were passed down and intensified, culminating in real-world tragedies including preventable deaths. They emphasize the need for scriptural accuracy, critical thinking, and accountability. The conversation closes with a powerful call to evaluate healing claims against biblical patterns and historical evidence.

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Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:

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John and Jed discuss how cult dynamics infiltrate not only fringe religious groups like IHOP, YWAM, and Bethel, but also influence mainstream churches through branding, fragmentation, and spiritual elitism. Drawing from personal experiences and historical case studies, they highlight how movements often prioritize expansion and spectacle over accountability and genuine service. From church planting strategies to failed missions rooted in emotional manipulation, they show how much of the spiritual infrastructure today mirrors the corporate franchise model.

They trace the development of these movements from early Pentecostal figures such as Frank Sanford and Charles Parham to modern-day spiritual tourism and missions that often benefit the senders more than the communities being served. The conversation raises serious concerns about the lack of oversight, the trauma caused by spiritually abusive methods, and the ease with which narcissistic leaders can build personal empires under the guise of ministry. In the end, they preview a heartbreaking example of a cult offshoot where these dangers became fatal.

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Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:

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Victoria joins John to share her story of growing up in the teachings of David Terrell, exploring her early life within the group, her college years, and the gradual unraveling of her belief system. She describes the tension between what she had been taught and what she began to experience among other Christians, especially during her time in Japan. Her journey through studying apologetics and exploring doctrinal differences, particularly the concept of the Trinity, led her to re-evaluate the foundational teachings of Terrell’s ministry.As the conversation unfolds, Victoria describes how discovering literature like Holy Ghost Girl and court records about Terrell’s financial misconduct shook her perception of him further. John and Victoria explore how Terrell’s ministry was influenced by William Branham, including the adoption of the manifested sons of God doctrine, end-times survivalism, and isolationist teachings. They also contrast these authoritarian environments with healthier church models based on mutual edification. The interview ends with reflections on how indoctrination shaped emotional development and practical life choices, and how healing is ongoing for those leaving such environments.  ______________________

Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:

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

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

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John Collins and McKinnon discuss the spiritual confusion and theological dangers caused by William Branham's teachings, particularly his misinterpretation of Acts chapters 18 and 19. They explore how Branham's use of scripture helped construct a belief system that led followers to elevate his voice above the Bible, often resulting in bondage and disconnection from broader Christian fellowship. The conversation opens with an invitation for others to share their own stories of escape from groups influenced by Branhamism, and gradually unfolds into a scriptural critique showing how Branham manipulated biblical texts to validate his own authority and prophetic role.

They explain how Branham's theology—centered on distorted doctrines such as the "manifested sons of God" and a segmented salvation process—undermined the simple gospel of Christ. The episode connects Branham's misuse of scripture to modern charismatic and New Apostolic Reformation teachings, highlighting how these ideologies propagate exclusivist interpretations and spiritual elitism. Through careful scriptural analysis, John and John show how Branham's teachings ultimately led believers away from Christ and into a system of doctrinal entanglement that promotes confusion, fear, and a fractured sense of salvation.

______________________

Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:

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

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

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