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 John and Cynthia discuss the historical and doctrinal complexities within Pentecostal and Charismatic movements, emphasizing how the focus on select spiritual gifts, particularly speaking in tongues, has sometimes overshadowed the broader scriptural intent behind spiritual gifts. They delve into various misconceptions about gifts like wisdom, mercy, and discernment, challenging ideas promoted in charismatic and Pentecostal circles. The conversation transitions into a discussion about the role of gifts in the early church versus today, where widespread literacy and technology shift the necessity of specific manifestations like speaking in tongues.br br John asks questions and shares feelings about the lasting relevance of all spiritual gifts in the modern era, while Cynthia highlights how a misunderstanding of scripture has led to distorted practices in some charismatic settings. They explore how historical enthusiasm, or anti-intellectualism, in church history has shaped modern movements, comparing early church needs to today’s global context. Ultimately, they argue for a deeper, scriptural understanding of all gifts, especially love, which Paul calls the greatest gift of all.br br 00:00 Introductionbr 00:31 John’s Personal Journey with Spiritual Giftsbr 03:35 Cynthia’s View on Faith and Understandingbr 05:02 The Cessationist vs.