Endless NAR Tentacles: Unraveling Elitist Cults - Converging Apostasy - Steve Montgomery - ep 297

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Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:
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John and Steve discuss the intricate historical connections between various theological movements, focusing on the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) and its doctrinal roots. They delve into the influence of figures like T. Austin Sparks, Watchman Nee, and Jane Leed, tracing the evolution of key theological concepts such as the Manifested Sons of God, church authority, and elitist spiritual teachings. Their conversation highlights how these ideas were woven through movements like the Latter Rain, Pentecostalism, and the Shepherding Movement, shaping the landscape of modern charismatic theology. They explore how certain teachings, once considered controversial, have become widely accepted within evangelical circles, particularly regarding spiritual authority, submission, and the idea of a spiritually elite group within the broader Christian community.

Throughout the discussion, they analyze the impact of historical figures and theological trends on contemporary movements, identifying patterns of spiritual hierarchy, exclusivity, and authoritarian leadership. They emphasize the dangers of extra-biblical teachings that prioritize submission to human authority over biblical doctrine, drawing parallels to cult-like structures. The conversation also touches on the role of media and literature in propagating these ideas, with figures such as Bill Hamon and William Branham reinforcing these themes. Ultimately, John and Steve advocate for critical examination and historical research to expose the origins and implications of these teachings, encouraging vigilance against manipulation within religious movements.

00:00 Introduction
02:01 The Hidden Influence of T. Austin Sparks
06:01 Watchman Nee and the Early Connections to Esoteric Theology
09:08 The Dangers of Progressive Revelation
13:05 The Problem with Churchianity and Spiritual Elitism
17:04 The Influence of Sparks on Later Religious Movements
20:04 How Sparks’ Teachings Mirror the Latter Rain Movement
24:42 The Role of Submission and Spiritual Authority
30:53 The Overcomers Doctrine and Its Esoteric Roots
35:05 The Connection Between the Latter Rain and the NAR
40:12 Esoteric Influence on NAR Theology
46:14 Final Thoughts on the Dangers of These Movements
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