Our Stories: Escape From NAR - With Rebecca Ludwig

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 Bob Scott, co-founder of Kansas City Fellowship, to discuss "prophets." They dive into the subject of modern prophetic movements and reflect on the complexities of those involved. Bob recalls how individuals within these groups, such as prophets, often blurred the line between prophecy and personal opinion, leading to manipulation and misunderstandings. Both John and Bob explore the psychological and spiritual elements that drive these leaders and their followers, discussing how human needs for guidance and validation often escalate leaders to a revered status. As they recount experiences, they highlight the personal and communal struggles these dynamics create, both for leaders and their followers. They discuss how movements, especially within Pentecostal and charismatic circles, create environments where the supernatural and the natural blur, leading to unhealthy spiritual dynamics. John and Bob share personal anecdotes that illustrate the cult-like tendencies within these environments. The conversation takes on a reflective tone as they express concern for the people caught in these systems, acknowledging both the real human needs and the dangers of exploiting spiritual authority. They also touch on historical precedents, drawing parallels between modern movements and past religious excesses.

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 Andy and Lizzy Manley, former members of New Frontiers, to discuss their experiences with the group. Lizzy shares how her early faith journey in New Frontiers, which began with what seemed like genuine worship, led to disillusionment due to the shepherding practices that promoted strict submission. Over time, she experienced cognitive dissonance between her personal beliefs and the church's teachings, leading her to lose faith for nearly a decade. Andy discusses the theological rigidity and financial demands of the church, focusing on strict tithing policies and questionable leadership practices. Both Andy and Lizzy express frustration at how the church's emphasis on control, financial exploitation, and rigid hierarchies led them to question the authenticity of their spiritual experience. The conversation transitions into broader reflections on the New Apostolic Reformation and the structural similarities between movements like New Frontiers and other charismatic organizations. Both Andy and Lizzy emphasize how the misuse of spiritual authority and manipulation of believers for financial gain are rampant in these circles. They reflect on how these experiences, combined with emotional manipulation during worship services, distorted their understanding of faith and religion. The interview concludes with advice to current members of such groups, urging them to read the Bible independently and question teachings that seem manipulative or self-serving.

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 John McKennon explore the connections between Christian identity and fundamentalism, focusing on key figures like William Branham and Gordon Lindsay. The discussion reveals how movements like the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) were influenced by British Israelism and the Christian identity movement. Gordon Lindsay, often seen as a leader of charismatic movements, had deeper ties to controversial ideologies that are often ignored or erased by his later organizations. The hosts discuss the influence of Wesley Swift and Gerald Burton Winrod on Lindsay’s beliefs, particularly how British Israelism and UFO doctrines played a role in his ministry. The discussion also delves into Lindsay’s role in the Voice of Healing revivals, his work with prominent figures like William Branham, and his eventual shift away from more extremist ideologies as his ministry evolved into the creation of Christ for the Nations. The episode emphasizes the hidden history of these movements and the significant impact Lindsay had on the development of charismatic revivals.

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 Steve explore the intricate history and influence of fringe religious movements on the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR). They begin by discussing Wesley Swift’s role in shaping esoteric doctrines, particularly his racist and anti-Semitic ideologies that were adopted by certain sects. John reflects on growing up within a religious movement that promoted such teachings and the shock of discovering their origins. The conversation delves into how figures like William Branham, Swift, and others have cross-pollinated their beliefs, ultimately influencing the development of the NAR. They also touch on how UFOs, pyramids, and ancient mysteries became integral to these groups’ teachings, blending theological, spiritual, and often racial concepts into a hybrid belief system. Throughout their discussion, John and Steve link historical ideologies, tracing them to modern religious movements and examining their ongoing impact. They uncover how the Manifest Sons of God movement, British Israelism, and Christian Identity have influenced today’s NAR. The hosts emphasize how extra-biblical texts and ongoing revelation serve as a foundation for many of these groups’ beliefs. By analyzing these key doctrines, they show how contemporary movements, while less overtly connected to racism, still draw from theological frameworks rooted in these controversial pasts.

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 Chino's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@chinodross John and Chino explore the teachings and practices of Hobart Freeman and William Branham, including strict rules within their movements. They compare the legalistic and authoritarian nature of these cults to broader religious contexts, focusing on topics such as professions, education, and social activities. Personal anecdotes enrich the dialogue, particularly about the struggles of individuals attempting to exit these groups and the long-lasting psychological impact. A recurring theme is the conflict between personal faith and cult-imposed restrictions. The conversation moves between personal stories and historical analysis, offering insights into the destructive power of religious control. As the speakers recount their own journeys, they delve into the contradictions within these movements, like the tension between freedom and control, and reflect on how cult leaders manipulate followers through fear and intimidation.

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 take a deep dive into the origins and effects of prophecy in HOPKC. The dialogue centers around the practice of using prophecy to control and influence followers, often by giving vague or grandiose predictions. The hosts compare how prophecies failed in movements like the International House of Prayer (IHOP) and the William Branham movement, focusing on how the leaders revise or reinterpret prophecies after they don’t come true. They explore the psychological effect of holding onto these beliefs, even when evidence shows they are false, drawing parallels to the analogy of peeling an onion—each layer reveals more falsehoods, but many find it difficult to let go of the core belief. Part of the conversation delves into personal experiences with failed prophecies, such as Pat Bickle’s unfulfilled healing prophecy, which was once used as a significant symbol of upcoming revival. They also discuss how fear and hope are key tools used by cult leaders to maintain control. The podcast moves toward a broader critique of prophecy-driven movements, suggesting that the destructive consequences far outweigh any perceived benefits, especially when it leads to emotional and psychological damage among believers.

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 Rebecca Ludwig to discuss her personal experiences in various churches associated with the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) and related movements. It opens with her traumatic childhood experiences involving intense fear of the Rapture and carries through to her involvement with churches tied to NAR. Rebecca shares the details of manipulation, control, and spiritual abuse within these churches, particularly highlighting Rick Joyner’s MorningStar Ministries and Todd Bentley’s ministry. Rebecca’s story touches on her efforts to serve in ministry, the pressure to join the Knights of Malta, and accusations against her that led to her being sidelined in these churches. The conversation also brings up revelations of sexual misconduct, unethical behavior, and false prophetic practices. Throughout the discussion, both John Collins, the host, and Rebecca express concern over how leaders in these movements manipulate their followers by fostering fear and confusion, often tying their ministries to questionable practices like “grave soaking.”

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 Cynthia delve into the complexities of the Pentecostal and Charismatic Movements as it relates to context of Scripture.They discuss key figures such as Chuck Smith, Paul Cain, and William Branham. They analyze how the Latter Rain and Charismatic Revivals shaped modern evangelicalism, with a particular focus on the problematic elements of teaching out of context, the misuse of prophecy, and the mingling of politics with religion. Through personal anecdotes and historical context, the speakers emphasize the importance of returning to a more authentic and biblical understanding of Christianity. The conversation also touches on the dangers of modern charismatic movements, critiquing practices like speaking in tongues and the manipulative nature of prophetic fortune-telling within these groups. The dialogue presents a clear juxtaposition between the original covenantal theology and the modern interpretations that have drifted from biblical teachings. It concludes with a reflection on the consequences of false teachings and the role of believers in discerning truth from manipulation.

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 Chino's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@chinodross John and Chino talk about the harmful doctrines of cults, specifically related to Hobart Freeman and the Faith Assembly. They explore topics such as the bullying tactics used by cult leaders, the misinterpretation of scriptures to justify control, and the damaging impact of false faith healing doctrines on followers. The conversation also touches on personal stories from ex-members of the Faith Assembly, highlighting the psychological and spiritual toll that being part of such groups can take. Chino shares personal experiences, from being bullied in middle school to witnessing the gradual mental decline of Hobart Freeman in the last years of his life. The hosts discuss the indoctrination processes, how cult leaders suppress free thinking, and the psychological manipulation involved in pushing harmful doctrines. They also reflect on how members are manipulated into believing in false healings, foregoing medical treatments, and adhering to extreme rules, ultimately resulting in physical and spiritual harm.

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 Jed Hartley to "detangle" IHOPKC. Both share personal stories of how their upbringing in a doomsday cult shaped their worldview, their identity, and their spiritual journey, particularly the psychological toll of believing that the end of the world was imminent. They delve into the damaging effects of these apocalyptic beliefs, the constant sense of urgency, and the tension between grandiose expectations and the mundane realities of life. As the discussion unfolds, it becomes clear that the speakers grapple with the lingering impact of their time in these environments, especially how it influenced their sense of self-worth, relationships, and their pursuit of meaning after leaving the group. The transcript touches on the role of ego in apocalyptic religious communities, the dangers of believing oneself to be a central figure in God’s plan, and the challenges of disentangling from such deeply embedded beliefs. Ultimately, it highlights the complex process of healing, learning humility, and redefining one’s faith or lack thereof after such formative experiences.