When Prophets Rewrite Scripture: The Hidden Cost of Branham’s Theology | John McKinnon | Ep. 379

John Collins and McKinnon discuss the spiritual confusion and theological dangers caused by William Branham’s teachings, particularly his misinterpretation of Acts chapters 18 and 19. They explore how Branham’s use of scripture helped construct a belief system that led followers to elevate his voice above the Bible, often resulting in bondage and disconnection from broader Christian fellowship. The conversation opens with an invitation for others to share their own stories of escape from groups influenced by Branhamism, and gradually unfolds into a scriptural critique showing how Branham manipulated biblical texts to validate his own authority and prophetic role.

They explain how Branham’s theology—centered on distorted doctrines such as the “manifested sons of God” and a segmented salvation process—undermined the simple gospel of Christ. The episode connects Branham’s misuse of scripture to modern charismatic and New Apostolic Reformation teachings, highlighting how these ideologies propagate exclusivist interpretations and spiritual elitism. Through careful scriptural analysis, John and John show how Branham’s teachings ultimately led believers away from Christ and into a system of doctrinal entanglement that promotes confusion, fear, and a fractured sense of salvation.

00:00 Introduction
02:28 The Danger of Questioning Scripture and Authority
04:40 Emotional and Social Impact of Leaving High-Control Groups
08:16 Branham’s Borrowing from Pentecostal Theology
10:16 Mixture of Christianity and False Doctrine
14:35 The Cloud and the Message’s Shifting Theology
18:26 NAR, Branham, and the Return Ministry Concept
22:00 Why People Stay: Cognitive Dissonance and Pain Avoidance
24:03 Ministerial Responsibility and Moral Crossroads
26:21 Manipulation and Mind Control in Doctrinal Teaching
30:19 Analysis of Acts 18 and Apollos’ Incomplete Gospel
34:48 Acts 19 and the Disciples of John
36:58 Manifested Sons of God and False Authority
38:35 Misuse of Acts 19 to Undermine Baptist Doctrine
42:03 William Branham’s Contradictions on Salvation and the Holy Spirit
47:12 False Equivalence Between Apollos and Modern Denominations
49:00 Strategic Elevation of Branham’s Status
50:27 Giving Lip Service to Scripture While Distorting It
53:02 Final Contradictions and Mixed Messaging
55:03 Summary and Appeal for Simplicity in Salvation
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Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:
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Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCGGZX3K
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