Cultish

In part two of our conversation on the Church of the Firstborn, we examine the doctrines and beliefs that shape this controversial religious movement. From salvation through obedience to claims of being the true church, we compare their teachings with the biblical gospel.
What does the Church of the Firstborn really believe?
And how do their teachings compare to biblical Christianity?
We also explore the fear surrounding medical treatment, the influence of church authority, and the belief that suffering can become evidence of faithfulness. Former elder Ron explains how these teachings affected members and why he ultimately came to see the finished work of Christ and salvation by grace so differently.
Ron's Podcast: HERE
Be Part of the Mission to Change Lives: HERE
SHOP OUR MERCH: HERE

In this episode of Cultish, we sit down with Ron, a former elder in the General Assembly and Church of the Firstborn. For nearly two decades, Ron was deeply involved in a group that taught it was the only true church going to heaven. He eventually became a preacher, church planter, and ordained elder before beginning to question what he had been taught.

What happens when your church teaches that salvation exists only within its walls?

What happens when faith means rejecting doctors and medicine?

And what does it cost to walk away when your entire community is tied to the church?

Ron shares how the gospel of grace began to unravel the works-based system he had trusted for years. He opens up about the painful process of leaving, losing relationships, and discovering what it meant to follow Christ outside the Church of the Firstborn. This is Part 1 of Ron’s journey out of a little-known religious group with deep roots and startling beliefs.

Ron's Podcast: HERE

Be Part of the Mission to Change Lives: HERE

SHOP OUR MERCH: HERE

In this episode of Cultish, Andrew sits down with Ian Rose, a former member of The New Church, to explore the strange theology of Emanuel Swedenborg and the teachings that shaped Ian’s life. Ian explains how Swedenborg’s alleged revelations became foundational to the New Church, including its “internal sense” of Scripture, rejection of key biblical doctrines, works-based view of salvation, and unusual beliefs about heaven, angels, and the afterlife. 

Most importantly, Ian shares how encountering the biblical gospel—salvation through Christ alone rather than his own works—ultimately led him out of the New Church and radically changed his understanding of Jesus, Scripture, and salvation. 

 

Be Part of the Mission to Change Lives: HERE

SHOP OUR MERCH: HERE

In this episode of Cultish, Jerry and Andrew revisit the disturbing story of Jim Jones and the tragedy of the Peoples Temple. But rather than simply retelling the events of Jonestown, we dig deeper into the worldview that shaped Jones, including the influence of New Thought and its ideas about God, humanity, and the power of the mind. How did these spiritual ideas intersect with Jones’ increasingly radical political ideology and his demand for absolute loyalty? 

We also examine Jones’ rhetoric surrounding “revolutionary suicide” and play chilling archival testimony from Peoples Temple members who professed their willingness to die for the cause. What happens when spiritual deception, political revolution, and devotion to a charismatic leader become intertwined? Join us as we revisit Jim Jones and explore the beliefs behind one of the most infamous cult tragedies in modern history.

Be Part of the Mission to Change Lives: HERE

SHOP OUR MERCH: HERE

In this episode of Cultish, the Super Sleuth sits down with Craig to examine a recent video in which Hayden Carroll critiques Reformed theology. Together, they analyze his arguments, address several misrepresentations of Reformed doctrine, and explain what Reformed theology actually teaches. Rather than responding with emotion, this episode seeks to offer a careful, biblical, and charitable critique while presenting the historic Reformed position in its proper context. 

As Christians, we have a responsibility to represent the beliefs of those we disagree with accurately before offering criticism. Throughout this discussion, we demonstrate where Hayden's presentation falls short of that standard. Whether those inaccuracies stem from a misunderstanding of Reformed theology or a failure to engage with it carefully, listeners can judge for themselves as we examine the claims one by one.

Be Part of the Mission to Change Lives: HERE

SHOP OUR MERCH: HERE