In previous articles, we examined experts Robert J. Lifton and Steven Hassan’s destructive mind control group models, and found characteristics of both models present in our experience at the World Mission Society Church of God. In a book titled, “Twisted Scriptures“ by Mary Alice Chrnalogar (former member of an abusive discipleship group) describes abusive churches often using “Anti-Intellect“ teachings to disorient members.  Chrnalogar states:

What Does Joo Cheol Kim Say?

Joo Cheol Kim, WMSCOG’s general pastor, makes it clear in his book titled “My Sheep Listen to My Voice” (1990) that using your own mind apparently has pitfalls:

The above statements have the potential not only to manipulate members into relinquishing common sense and critical thinking, but also serve the purpose of distinguishing WMSCOG members from those that do not accept the WMSCOG doctrine by labeling outsiders as slanderers, “self-centered”, opinionated, false, blinded and given a “spirit of stupor” by Satan.  Acceptance and belief of the above statements by members designates the WMSCOG as the ultimate authority over interpretation of the Bible.

Do Other Controversial Groups Make the Same Claim?

Jehovah’s Witnesses consider themselves to be the “infallible interpreters of the Bible” (Watchtower 1930 vol. 2, p.8) and even have their own Bible interpretation called the New World Translation.  Do they similarly advise their members not to “use their own thoughts” when reading the Bible?

Jehovah’s Witnesses:

“First, since “oneness” is to be observed, a mature Christian must be in unity and full harmony with fellow believers as far as faith and knowledge are concerned. He does not advocate or insist on personal opinions or harbor private ideas when it comes to Bible understanding.“ Watchtower 2001 Aug 1 p.14

“From time to time, there have arisen from among the ranks of Jehovah’s people those, who, like the original Satan, have adopted an independent, faultfinding attitude…They say that it is sufficient to read the Bible exclusively, either alone or in small groups at home. But, strangely, through such ‘Bible reading,’ they have reverted right back to the apostate doctrines that commentaries by Christendom’s clergy were teaching …” Watchtower 1981 Aug 15 p.29

The Jehovah’s Witnesses label those that dismiss their doctrine as apostates, opinionated, having private ideas, independent, and faultfinding.  It seems that a member of the Jehovah’s Witness doctrine, may also feel compelled to reject their own thoughts and leave it up to the organization to interpret the Scriptures for them.  Is this any different from what Joo Cheol Kim teaches with his statements?

Trinity Foundation:

The Trinity Foundation, lead by Ole Anthony, is another controversial religious group.  Ole Anthony has made statements similar to those made by the Joo Cheol Kim and the Watchtower Society.

“The biggest lie of modern Christianity is the idea of spiritual growth. Any effort on our part to become more like Christ is utter sin – for it is self-effort and God abhors the self. Trying to be a good Christian (reading your Bible, praying more, etc.) by your own self-efforts is pure vanity.”

“I don’t care about your silly schools of thought derived by man. I’m about real truth.”

Ole Anthony labels the thoughts of outsiders of his organization as vain, sinful, silly lies.

Conclusion

According to Lifton’s thought reform model, when a destructive mind control group is successful in convincing members that their own thoughts are bad, evil, or sinful, members are left with no other option but to depend on the group to make all of the decisions for them.  This includes Scriptural interpretation and guidance.  Members may then be vulnerable and easily mislead.  Members can become like putty in the leader’s hands.

If you are a WMSCOG member reading this article, ask yourself why the WMSCOG would need to employ tactics that other cults groups use, to convince you of the truth?

*The photo above is licensed under the Creative Commons license, available here.

A friend of mine attended a service at the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG) recently and was disturbed by something she heard. The person delivering the message claimed that “those that have doubt and ask questions are of little faith and those of strong faith just follow”. Wow.  It seems doubt is something that is discouraged at this WMSCOG location. In a sermon titled “A Precious Cornerstone In Zion”, the WMSCOG claims that God adds to any existing doubt that we may have so that we will not be able to believe in Him.

That’s interesting. The WMSCOG suggests that those that experience doubt are not those of strong faith in a sermon titled “Are You The One That Was To Come?”

What Does the Bible Say?

The Bible does not teach us that questioning is a sign of little faith. The Apostle Paul writes that the people he preached to in Berea were more “noble character” than those of Thessalonica.  The people of Berea did not blindly accept Paul’s teaching.  They looked to the Scriptures (Acts 17:11-12) in order to determine if what Paul said was true. As a result of questioning, many had a stronger faith, not more doubt.

Because they searched, as a result they believed.

In his first epistle, John warns us about false prophets (1 John 4:1).

Here we see that the Bible tells us to test the spirits, and that people came to greater faith because of their questioning. From these sermons, and from what my friend heard, it doesn’t seem to me that the WMSCOG encourages questioning. The truth, however, can stand up to any questioning, precisely because it is fact. The truth has nothing to fear from being questioned, for it cannot be proven wrong.

Destructive mind control groups often equate questions and doubt with little faith and weakness. Members of these groups that demonstrate blind acceptance or “strong faith” are rewarded with additional “love bombing” and other social signs of approval in order to discourage and even stop the members’ critical thought process.