John and Steve discuss the connections between Russian mysticism, Persian Sufi thought, and the modern New Apostolic Reformation. They explore how figures like Jacob Boehme, Emmanuel Swedenborg, and ancient Persian mystics shaped theological concepts such as angelology and union with the divine. The conversation highlights how mystical and esoteric streams have influenced various Christian movements, from Orthodox traditions to charismatic groups, drawing parallels between historic syncretism and contemporary trends. Along the way, Steve stumbles on a few phrases, restarting his sentences with humor, and both hosts use these light moments to transition into deeper analysis.br br The discussion covers major Russian thinkers like Vladimir Solovyev, Alexander Dugin, and Nikolai Berdyaev, examining how their visions of unity, dominion, and eschatology intersect with themes in Western religious movements. They trace historical and ideological links through Henry Corbin’s synthesis of Orthodox and Islamic mysticism, the blending of Illuminism with Neoplatonic thought, and the adaptation of these ideas in modern movements. John and Steve also reflect on how such converging streams can create unstable alliances and influence political and spiritual landscapes worldwide, while cautioning about the dangers of these theological mergers.br br 00:00 Introductionbr 01:07 Russian mysticism, Sufism, and Swedenborg’s influencebr 05:06 Weaponized religion in Russian Orthodoxy and Branhamismbr 08:12 Vladimir Solovyov and Sophia mysticismbr 11:03 Ecumenical movements and cult parallelsbr 13:24 Esoteric Nazism and divisions in extremist groupsbr 14:40 Alexander Dugin and Russian political mysticismbr 16:29 Branham’s prophecy and U.S.