Support the show:br br br Available on Spotify, Google, and Apple Podcasts:br br br Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:br Paperback: Kindle: br Chino's YouTube Channel:br br John and Chinio discuss various issues surrounding cults, particularly those with legalistic and manipulative structures, such as Faith Assembly and similar groups led by figures like William Branham and Hobart Freeman. The conversation centers on the psychological and spiritual damage these movements cause, especially through their authoritarian control over members’ beliefs, language, and lives. They explore personal stories and theological critiques, illustrating the deep harm that occurs when leaders distort Christian teachings to impose burdensome and arbitrary rules on followers. There are also discussions about the revivalist roots of these movements and the eventual fragmentation that occurs after the leader’s death, causing further splintering and confusion among followers.br br Throughout, they reflect on personal experiences of leaving such movements and the lasting effects of spiritual abuse. They highlight how legalism, which focuses on works and behavior rather than grace, creates emotional and spiritual captivity, leaving members feeling isolated and under constant scrutiny. The hosts stress the importance of discerning genuine faith from manipulative religious control and encourage listeners to let go of unnecessary burdens imposed by these kinds of religious environments.