Church or Cult Pt 2: Cults
This episode will dive into the complexities and deep effects of cults/cult-like environment.
TALKING POINTS
What is a cult?
Definitions:Cult (Culture)- “a misplaced or excessive admiration for a particular person or thing”- webstersA few signs:Leader(s) are the ultimate authority. Have no accountability or “Yes-men”Others are shamed or discredited in some way for leaving the group or challenging beliefs/practicesShame Cycles: Need this group to feel loved, worthy or significant.
Narcissistic leadership in “Church”
The narcissist and the needy (perfect relationship match)Ex: Hillsong/Ravi situations (Can maybe mention these situations)SignsVery Charismatic/charming personalitiesLove-bombing/flatteryManipulativeGaslightingControlling
Healing
The aftermath/disconnectingExamine fruitDoes leadership actions match their words?Learning the difference between imperfection vs deep character flawsShame and Doubt Give yourself space to question your beliefs and see what remains true (this can be very scary/lonely, but worth the journey)Finding faults in yourself not perpetratorsVulnerability (jump from cult to cult)Reconnecting with God & Others (scared to trust Christians/churches)Ways to heal TherapySafe Community (Marks of a healthy church community)Find someone that can validate your pain and help you grieve. Talk about it!Rest (Maybe take time off from local church/serving until you feel comfortable)Recommendation Book/Links
Combating Cult Mind Control by Steven Hassan:
Audiobook: https://www.audible.com/pd/Combating-Cult-Mind-Control-Audiobook/B07GZVGN9F?source_code=GO1DH13310082090P1&ds_rl=1262685&ds_rl=1263561&ds_rl=1260658&gclid=CjwKCAjwjuqDBhAGEiwAdX2cj57D_1DJe48WXjEtnR6UEoF3QHe-PxI9NO_9H7wlSYL8hMl1Hx8h7hoChDkQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
Safe People by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr John Townsend
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Safe-People-Relationships-Avoid-Those/dp/0310345790
