John and Laura-Lynn take a hard look at the dark side of modern religious movements, exposing how hero worship has protected predators and corrupted churches. They trace these patterns back to Pentecostal history, revealing scandals, manipulation, and false doctrines that set the stage for today’s abuses. Laura-Lynn shares her firsthand experience confronting leaders like Art Lucier, while John outlines how figures from Parham to Branham laid a foundation of deception and exploitation. Together they reveal how political tactics, misplaced loyalty, and distorted discernment continue to harm believers and protect abusers. br br This conversation shines a light on the danger of elevating leaders beyond accountability, the misuse of spiritual authority, and the urgent need for courage and true biblical discernment. They also expose the rising tide of Christian nationalism, its corrosive impact on love and outreach, and how celebrity culture in the church has replaced authentic discipleship. The call is clear: stand for righteousness, protect the vulnerable, and refuse to idolize leaders who exploit their position.br br Recent Latter Rain Sexual Abuse Research:br br 00:00 Introduction br 00:31 The Problem of Hero Worship in Religion br 02:54 Laura-Lynn on Exposing Abuse in the Church br 05:34 Art Lucier Scandals and Grooming Allegations br 11:17 Historical Roots: Pentecostalism and Sexual Misconduct br 13:25 Smith Wigglesworth, Branham, and the Latter Rain Spark br 16:15 Abuse and Predators in Early Pentecostal Movements br 20:05 Assemblies of God and the Independent Assemblies Split br 23:47 Why Predators Seek Pulpit Power br 30:04 The Political DNA of Pentecostalism br 34:35 Sean Feucht, Celebrity Culture, and Exploitation br 39:11 Twisted Discernment: How Branham Redefined It br 40:18 Christian Nationalism and the Political Spirit in the Church br 47:27 Us vs. Them Religion vs.