From Spoken Word to Silent Victims: The Birth of Voice of God Recordings

In this episode, John and Charles discuss the origins, inner workings, and eventual crisis of the central institutions that define the main sect of the William Branham movement. They trace the roots of these organizations—Branham Tabernacle, Spoken Word Publications, and Voice of God Recordings—through the doctrinal framework known as "Church Order," laid out by Branham himself. Emphasis is placed on how these institutions became vehicles for deification of Branham, forming what the hosts call a "deity cult" that shaped global message churches. They highlight how governance at Branham Tabernacle excluded dissenting voices, enforced control through tithe-based voting, and set the stage for Billy Paul Branham's eventual takeover. The conversation shifts dramatically as Charles unpacks the disturbing history of the tape-recording franchise led by Gene Goad and Leo Mercer, which culminated in the formation of Voice of God Recordings. He recounts how this operation moved to Prescott, Arizona, forming a commune known as "the Park," where systematic abuse allegedly occurred. The death of Roy Borders and the collapse of the Park triggered a crisis in the 1980s, prompting a reorganization of leadership and infrastructure. The hosts argue that Voice of God Recordings was created in direct response to this implosion. They reveal efforts by senior message leaders to cover up abuse, pointing to firsthand quotes from Perry Green and Lee Vayle. The episode concludes by emphasizing how these organizational dynamics and cover-ups became the foundation for the modern message cult, influencing not only internal followers but also charismatic figures in broader evangelical circles. ______________________ Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR: Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1735160962 Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCGGZX3K ______________________ - Support the channel: https://www.patreon.com/branham - Visit the website: https://william-branham.org