Twisted Exegesis: The Dangerous Theology of Faith Assembly - Faith Assembly - Chino Ross - ep 276

Support the show:
https://www.patreon.com/branham

Available on Spotify, Google, and Apple Podcasts:
https://william-branham.org/podcast

Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:
Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1735160962
Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCGGZX3K

Chino's YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@chinodross

John and Chino discuss the theological interpretations and manipulations within sectarian religious movements, particularly examining the teachings of Hobart Freeman and his connection to William Branham. They delve into how certain figures within these movements applied anecdotal storytelling, repetition, and selective scriptural interpretation to shape doctrinal beliefs. Drawing parallels between Freeman’s teaching style and Branham’s influence, they expose the use of out-of-context biblical passages to create doctrinal narratives that justified exclusive theological positions. Chino shares insights from firsthand accounts of former members, revealing the deep psychological impact of exposure to these teachings and how they often led to spiritual manipulation and control.

The conversation also explores Freeman’s final sermons, where he used Exodus to draw false parallels between the persecution of biblical Israel and legal actions taken against his movement. John and Chino critically analyze Freeman’s last-ditch efforts to maintain control by redefining prosecution as persecution and misleading followers through misapplied allegorical teachings. They highlight the dangers of such manipulations, explaining how they shaped the perspectives of followers and created long-term mental and emotional scars. The episode closes with a discussion on the broader historical context of religious manipulation, including its ties to Branham, the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship, and figures connected to authoritarian influence.

00:00 Introduction
00:31 The Overlap Between History and Doctrine
02:37 The Final Days of Faith Assembly and Hobart Freeman
06:17 A Survivor’s Perspective on Faith Assembly
10:06 Psychological Impact of Hearing Freeman’s Voice
17:23 The Danger of Repetitive Indoctrination
26:07 Anecdotal Teaching vs. Biblical Exegesis
30:04 The Influence of Hitler’s Speech Patterns on Cult Leaders
39:03 Freeman’s Use of the Book of Ruth for Theological Manipulation
46:02 Exodus, Persecution, and Freeman’s Distorted Narrative
54:03 Freeman’s Response to Criticism
1:00:01 The Connection Between Freeman and Branham
1:03:07 Closing Thoughts and Resources
______________________
– Support the channel: https://www.patreon.com/branham
– Subscribe to the channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBSpezVG15TVG-lOYMRXuyQ
– Visit the website: https://william-branham.org
– Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WilliamBranhamOrg
– Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@william.m.branham
– Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wmbhr
– Buy the books: https://william-branham.org/site/books