Signs of a Cult Leader: 13 Common Weird and Dangerous Things Cult Leaders Say?

[@DivaDelgado128]

I recently had a pastor's wife say something awful to me and then basically tell me to accept it and not to question her authority over me. In my spirit, it felt very wrong. Thank you for this confirmation.

[@l.patrick3155]

DivaDelgado128 Always go with the Spirit. It will never lead you astray.

[@gracecho9292]

DivaDelgado128 ㅁ쇼

[@OfftoShambala]

Friend of Jesus777 20 and by all means do not give them money or do volunteer work

[@AntiMasonic93]

"Don't question her authority." What? You can question anyone you want.

[@alvaroakatico9188]

@@AntiMasonic93 Perhaps except the all mighty?

[@joanaborges9450]

I feel like cult leaders preach all about the importance of avoiding sins, but ironically, they end up being the most sinful ones.

[@alvaroakatico9188]

@Tyler Gibson ...to get your money.

[@breecheeze3432]

That's why I read my Bible to see if what they say comes from the Bible. If not then....bye bye

[@AmberDennis001]

A lot of independent fundamental baptist churches are cult like

[@josiahraywilson2913]

100%

[@iloveFreedom.]

🎯to syn .. orig: archery term: to miss the mark Ie choose fear over ❤ Karma/ wheel/ turning/ choice now From Each Dimension as we begin to See in the Light of God Light is information In form Love is Light Colour is a mathematical frequency 🎉shining through us As we move through time 🦅 Into events 🌻 With our frequenciez 🎯🦚🌈

[@angeliquep8391]

Just be careful on who lays hands on you especially if your seeking deliverance

[@l.patrick3155]

Anjulah Puraless Amen!

[@kellyanderson1933]

yes definitely a red flag especially when they get offended when you decline or don't validate them!

[@AntiMasonic93]

Yup, they do get offended if you decline deliverance.

[@dragonarcher1639]

God told me to tell you your not correct... lol

[@queenofyoworld]

yessssss

[@RitaLady]

Always taking verses out of context to fit their agenda is a big one.

[@ApplyGodsWordcomMarkBallenger]

very true, and they usually focus on that agenda all the time

[@tjferdinand6850]

Facts

[@RitaLady]

@Brenda Maki Yes! And coming up with crazy stuff.🤦🏾‍♀️

[@virginianesbitt1568]

That's a sign of a false teacher/ prophet

[@savonnemoore6554]

Amen

[@minetteming114]

I'd like to add a couple more: *When you are not allowed to invite other Christians to the bible-study/church because your leader says they might have the 'spirit of argument' and might question them. You're not encourage to tell people about what happens. *When you need to ask for permission before you do anything--what you do on the weekend, who your friends are, who you speak to about church/invite to church, if you hang out with family *You get 'excommunicated' for hanging out with ex-members (who were kicked out without warning); or you get kicked out when you are no longer useful to their ministry (due to health) *you catch them in lies *if anyone in church needs help, they drop them *you can only be friends with who they are friends with *they blame you that their group/church is not growing **Yes--they say 'God told them' a lot, to get you to do/think whatever they want. And weird things: they can 'hear' people talking about them; they watch horror movies because God speaks to them through it. It's been 9 months and I'm still healing from this. I don't trust people (especially church people) anymore and I don't really want to go to a church. Another friend had counselling, another is still in therapy and not doing that well. Not all this happened at once--it was bit-by-bit over the course of 4years till they were in complete control. This person has caused a split in several churches before starting her own. After getting kicked I felt a lot better/healthier--but I need emotional healing.

[@user-dr9wh5le1p]

Hi Mariette, try listening to this kzbin.info/www/bejne/fH29d6uufqahgac

[@snowballtingting]

Sis, I felt your pain, I walked out and witnessed my closest friend in this trial, and we did lots of forgiving work, it is very hard for her to trust when she is wounded. We are still doing it, I will pray for you on her behalf. You are the chosen, focus on the grace of God by each day and May God keep you continually in his arm!

[@minetteming114]

@@snowballtingting Thankyou. I wrote this post 2 years ago and I'm still very messed up and damaged. God bless you, Jo.

[@virginianesbitt1568]

I would add control by proxy

[@beingsimpisafulltimejoband5042]

I'm in the same boat; I no longer want to attend to church. I'm traumatized by church. It's as if I'm being manipulated and forced to accept what they believe. It's been three years and I'm still scared because they told me that I wasn't following God's will. When I continue questioning them they just say, "There is no perfect religion, all of us have imperfection." And when I continue questioning them they just say, "Do you know being against the people chosen by God is a sin?" I tend to overthink things like, "What if I'm going to be late when Jesus comes?" Because that's always what they're talking about.

[@RevBomb600]

I was lifted up by members of my old church for years because i was the drummer and every week people would come up to me and tell me how much they love watching me, how proud they were of me, etc, and when i finally got up the courage to leave because i started noticing MANY of the things you mentioned here, noone called or texted me, which makes me feel like noone was surprised when i left or shocked, which makes me feel like it has always been fake

[@sarahshowalter9539]

They are always the"HERO" and yet the"Victim.

[@AW611]

Do you mean they claim both?

[@bethmoore7722]

I was in a cult back in the 70s. These are right on. One other thing to look for is when and where they show up. If they have a big presence on a college campus, but not so much in the community, you know they are after people in situations of transition or crisis. I had CPTSD , and many other members had come from homes that had been difficult or disrupted. Scientologists (not my cult) apparently go to disaster areas for the same reason. People who feel insecure and alone, whose world has suddenly changed for the worse, or who have suffered heavy losses, are easy prey. Being in the cult was one of the loneliest and hurtful experiences I’ve ever had. It did not change my life for the better. It just deepened and gave new depth and dimension to my already traumatized psyche.

[@montiwhitlow8420]

Is icc a cult

[@pcpxbotendorastermace9948]

@@montiwhitlow8420 Yes they said if you leave their group then they'll question your salvation. They also said they were the "true church."

[@rofhiwamashige4764]

😂I’m laughing because WoW,the facts over here are hitting home,we have so many Cult leaders in South Africa it’s crazy

[@ApplyGodsWordcomMarkBallenger]

Thankfully God's word guides us in the truth!

[@mampebubbles9712]

Facts bruh. But they're slowly being exposed

[@lebogangshovhote473]

So true, in South Africa we have so many cults and it's scary.

[@lesegohlahasoane3234]

I am telling you.South Africa yooh

[@christophertracy7272]

Thanks 4 this, I am reading through the Bible 4 myself because a lot of these NAR circles twist verses out of context!!!

[@innerstorm1]

I've legitimately heard all of these sentences (and more) from every church I've been to, whether it was a one time visit, or a church I was a part of for a decade. I grew up as a missionary kid. But fantastic information. You're definitely on point about it all!

[@pinkfuschia8140]

I'm adding this to my deprogramming playlist. You just described what I went through exactly!

[@ApplyGodsWordcomMarkBallenger]

Sadly bad church experiences are all too common

[@chunkymilk1565]

Were you in the Illuminati?

[@pinkfuschia8140]

@@chunkymilk1565 Not that I know, but if you analyse the images on the magazines, books and tracts they publish, you will find them laden with subliminal art - often demonic or sexual images. Therefore some who have left the cult have queried whether the Illuminati are at work within the art dept. I speak of Jehovah's Witnesses.

[@chunkymilk1565]

@@pinkfuschia8140 Why would they show you such demonic images? Does it have an effect on us? I've seen the star with candles used in rituals and the all seeing eye in a number of games and cartoons.

[@pinkfuschia8140]

@@chunkymilk1565 I have become more aware of these types of images since being set free from the cult I was involved in. It was so hard to mentally break free even after many years of having stopped going. It is like being under a spell. Your whole life is affected around you too. I fill my time with watching Christian TV, going and volunteering with my community church and watching online sermons. I am so free now and not in fear. Jesus is the lion of Judah and nothing can touch me now. Were you involved in anything like that?

[@tochukwunjoku]

Prosperity preaching Pastors too

[@owlknickerknots2607]

Tochukwu Njoku I agree and I know And these osas peddlers too What a joke I’ve heard enough bullshit and I’m tired of it time to stand up and say hell no to all this crap people shove down our throats !

[@skyhaykay2968]

@Our life's Journey you are soooo right!!!

[@skyhaykay2968]

My mom's church is a prosperity teaching church every single service there's like a 20 min long mini sermon just about giving tithes and offerings and how the more you give the more you will be blessed with and blah blah blah my poor mom has been giving them 20% or more of her GROSS INCOME before taxes on all her checks for years and years I see it as them stealing from her really 😒

[@moxig5717]

And when you disagree, you are banished! Or asked to do repentance, not that you actually repent, but it’s their way of punishing. Sick I see this in church people all the time

[@cijicamp]

This is staring to be all so common and it breaks my heart. God is so incredibly wonderful, I hate to see the enemy manipulating people into representing Him incorrectly. I'm especially glad you mentioned smaller ministries. Many people attack larger ministries, as if it's only in large ministries it occurs, but these type of ministries are ruining people's lives, & truing people away from the one & true living God! thank you so much for posting this & teaching it so well.

[@sophiaraen4379]

you are also describing narcissists 😂 #truth

[@ApplyGodsWordcomMarkBallenger]

True, they are very similar

[@steffyrae222]

Exactly, cult leaders ARE narcissistic.

[@yellowoof9095]

Sophia Raen cultist are usually narcissists, check out my town lmao.

[@joanaborges9450]

And narcissism ends up being a sin. Because, you're supposed to be humble and kneel to God. God should be worshiped, not humans.

[@margriettalen6713]

And Narcissistic people are always right. They don’t even hear what you say to them. They think they are so much smarter than you. Very sad how they live. It is a lie

[@JennyAmigo31]

Can I just thank you AGAIN?! Your videos are so real, simple, and Bible based wisdom presented so realistic. You rock!!! Lived in a cult for 26 years .......

[@regalchic]

May the God that delivered you deliver my mother and brother

[@estrimrolls3880]

and what is the difference between the sect you were in and the christian sect you are in now????I think it's funny when people are in a sect and don't even realize they're in a sect lol

[@Whykeisha]

@@regalchicand me!

[@regalchic]

@@Whykeisha Amen

[@TurtleTimeVoiceOvers]

Dear Congregation and audience: God told me and all my televangelist friends that God wants us to have jets, mansions, yachts and a Mercedes Benz. God told me if you send me $1000 your prayers will be answered and you will be greatly blessed. God told me to tell you to do as I say, not as I do. God told me that Donald Trump is an agent sent by him to save us all and that if anyone says anything bad about him they should be reprimanded with great anger.

[@faithhope7704]

Wonderful! 🤣

[@justmadeit2]

Guys, please dont just think that cults are small groups with only one leader, there can be many at the top who claim guidance from god. And remember that no one who is in a high control group or a cult actually thinks that they are in one. Cults can have 10 million members and be worldwide.

[@ApplyGodsWordcomMarkBallenger]

True

[@darrylmendoza9764]

It’s hard to get out of them not realizing it and I just escaped one. After years I’ve just been enlightened so I don’t expect cult members to get it quickly or easily but hope that they will.

[@justmadeit2]

@@darrylmendoza9764 Thanks for your comment/info ✌

[@user-ko4zk2he4v]

I'm trapped in a cult and there torturing me and my adult children . What do I do please help somehow ....I'm already losing my identity and it's hard to think strait.

[@justmadeit2]

@@user-ko4zk2he4v Leave

[@Adele1024]

I remember doing my 12th grade senior project on cults, especially the Jim jones cult, it was so creepy. I bet when he started off he did everything mentioned on this list.

[@unicornsteaks6769]

I'm reading a biography about him. He wrote the book on how to become a modern cult leader. As a child, he joined every church in his hometown so he could steal parts of every pastor's style and personality.

[@19869babygirl]

Adele omg, I did cults my senior year for English class too!! I was so fascinated. This was 14 years ago!

[@maximusprime1318]

Adele sadly cults come in all shapes and sizes. Oh and your cute 😁

[@maudieicrochet9491]

The scary thing about Jones is that in the beginning he actually did help people, improved his neighborhood, etc. At some point the power got to him.

[@bebeannaisnard2122]

Just came about this videos.... it confirm an experience i once had. I was able to leave and i feel sorry for the others who are still there. they are being controlled and was instructed to cut off anyone who does not what to be apart of the church group anymore.

[@raymondvelez5404]

I would like to add that a cult leader doesn''t like to disclose financial statements. A church or a ministry is a non-profit organization and should not be afraid to disclose it's finances to its members. Although it's biblical that the tithes are for the pastor, I don't believe that having a mansion and a Rolls Royce with money from the congregration glorifies God. If they worked for it through their professional careers, that's fine, but not with the hard earned money of others.

[@Tee-lady]

Yes, they're very secretive about finances, you dare not seek accountability.

[@moxig5717]

This happened in my family, we had a big blowout about six years ago, and since then, my brother has started his own church with family members and friends, and anyone who questions him is not allowed even on his property. Now my stepdad passed away and he’s using all of my mothers money to build a house for her on his property and expand his compound. But he keeps telling her the rapture is coming so that she should not be attached to her money. He went through his part of the inheritance about 10 years ago, with some flimflam money operation, I think he realized that religion was the way to go because people will give you their money if you give them comfort

[@erikaannetrinidad4387]

Why is this so accurate? I came from a cult, been there for like 3 years. Given up everything thinking I'm giving the Lord Jesus my life. Turns out it's all for the leader's vision. I'm one of those loyals in the small group. Now, I'm very happy and free enjoying God's goodness and the freedom He won for me but at the same time enduring His loving discipline. Serving Him, rather than the vision and direction of the church. For quite some time, I was releasing the pain of people misrepresenting the Lord because for so long I thought God was unkind, cruel, hard, pitiless. But it wasn't that difficult because of the joy and amazement how the Lord opened my eyes. Who knows I could've been there 'til now if not for His tender mercies. I'm still part of a church now (that's a command), and I'm glad Jesus is Lord in that place, rightly dividing the Word of God. It's true we should always be careful not to be extreme on one side or the other. All glory to Jesus alone.

[@martinjameskeys]

What church was that?

[@glenysjones5088]

Thanks Mark. Great video and teaching to make people aware of false pastors. I recently attended a church where I was concerned by the attitude of the Pastor. These are the words I noted about the service. God is God, He is the Alpha and Omega. No need to put a show on for God. We come to Church to worship God, not to be entertained. Who is being glorified ? God or the Pastor? Do not be dazzled. Beware of wolves in sheep's clothing.

[@lukemelton]

Another warning sign: They have a problem with people getting together to just read Bible.

[@kaitlindick4527]

A friends “church” seems to fit this description. The pastor lives in a 1.3 million dollar home while the majority of the congregation lives at or below the poverty line.

[@WeatherMoon]

pretty much a bad pastor, in my opinion

[@24JOSHUAGOPAUL]

@@WeatherMoon how so ?

[@alvaroakatico9188]

@@24JOSHUAGOPAUL Don’t question the pastor’s authority! If you feel like you fit the description, keep giving away your money so that others will have more than you do. Churches get a huge tax break, what else do they want?

[@melissaebarb3116]

Romans 12:3 says (ESV) For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.

[@19869babygirl]

Wow. This describes Benny hint to a tee. He threatened families with curses from god for questioning him.

[@florencewangari7369]

Kenya is full of them

[@nathankinman7753]

Even his own family.

[@PPOJ]

@@florencewangari7369 How about cry of the spirit ministries?am confused with their doctrine

[@jesusyourkingdomecome3434]

Yeah, Benny Hint is creepy , like Kenneth Copeland, Joseph Prince (not even his real name 😂), and so many more, i don't even know their names.

[@magolescheers]

This is the first video I’ve encountered that has made this topic crystal clear. Thank you.

[@moxig5717]

I have asked my brother to invite me to his church time and time again, but I’ve realized over the years that he doesn’t want any oversight

[@sgtsullivan]

I don't know how more spot on you could be with what we have witnessed and gone through with the Jonathan Kleck Cult.

[@Wildflowerofthefield]

You got that right! I would love it if more people would expose Kleck.

[@beingsimpisafulltimejoband5042]

I'm in the same boat; I no longer want to attend to church. I'm traumatized by church. It's as if I'm being manipulated and forced to accept what they believe. It's been three years and I'm still scared because they told me that I wasn't following God's will. When I continue questioning them they just say, "There is no perfect religion, all of us have imperfection." And when I continue questioning them they just say, "Do you know being against the people chosen by God is a sin?" I tend to overthink things like, "What if I'm going to be late when Jesus comes?" Because that's always what they're talking about.

[@ruthapollos]

I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. 19 Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil. Romans 16:17 Lovingly quickly leave,don't go behind,don't believe- obedience Confused / red flags- don't do it all. No. Lovingly leave quickly n don't go behind and don't believe. Matthew 24:26 So if anyone tells you, ‘There he is, out in the wilderness,’ do not go out; or, ‘Here he is, in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it. 27 For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. 1 peter 5:2-3 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them-not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.

[@krissnovak4523]

It's important to know the bible so you can see that, this church is not ok. Amy church you go to you should test the spirits before you get so entangled.

[@KatyYoder-cq1kc]

Wow, I am so sorry that you had this experience and for the derailment of the church of Christ globally. ❤️God is real and so is the Devil; unfortunately the Devil has been invited to run the church ⛪️ instead of the other way around. We must fight for Christianity and Christ as the ONLY Way the Truth and the Life.

[@WeThePeopleLoveChrist]

I'm glad to see you addressing this very real problem in the church today. Thank you and I hope to see more.

[@Easternsky007]

You described my upbringing, growing up we all went to different pentecostal churches and i remember as a child hearing the pastors say God chose them and anyone who rises against them God will make them sick or even take their life

[@sylviannecoquet4702]

Have a friend who got to know Jesus by not attending church. She walks closer to God than any other person who goes to church.

[@WildWinterberry]

Churches are rarely about god these days. They're just feel good karaoke clubs

[@SHAUNA-wd2xq]

THAT IS OKAY. CHURCHES ARE NOT THE ONLY ONRS THAT ARE CULTS.

[@MariaRamos-tl1rq]

That’s so beautiful and so true

[@lisaheinen5315]

This Scripture came to mind after reading this comment. Just wanted to share. John 4:15-26 15 The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” 16 He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” 17 “I have no husband,” she replied. Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. 18 The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” 19 “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. 20 Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.” 21 “Woman,” Jesus replied, “believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. 22 You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23 Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” 25 The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” 26 Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you-I am he.”

[@chongpymisao4830]

Mark ,thank q 4 d video , it help me to understand an occult spirit coming from a man i talked to b4

[@babyramses5066]

-When you have to learn a whole new set of lingo that their church and only their church/denomination uses in order to even know what's going on. This often comes with the expectation to accept a set of values that are foreign to you and only make sense if you turn off your brain

[@Blakely901]

Yup

[@honeybeeblossom5846]

Yes! Soooo true and such an insidious brainwashing tactic

[@JAYLIMITLESS17]

I left a church that was exactly like this smh. He wanted us to be on time to church but when a member called him out for being late to church all the time he said it's my church and I can show up when I want to. He wanted us to come to church on our birthdays when they don't even celebrate the members on their birthday or do anything for us on our birthdays. Him and his wife asked some of the members to be a co-signer on a church building for them and they would always pressure us to seed and give tithes/offering even if we didn't have the financial means to do so. "God's gonna bless you if you give and God's gonna get you if you don't give"

[@lillianwilson2723]

I've heard all of these... My mind is really running right now.

[@gwenmarie7311]

Mine too

[@cuprunnethover2509]

Mine three

[@alejandrogaricia2252]

I went to a church were the main pastor walked around with six or seven guys around him all the time like a mafia boss

[@cuprunnethover2509]

Wow!!! Why the Bible says that No weapon formed against thee shall prosper! He shouldn't need a gang of body guards. If God can't protect me surely no man can!

[@ginam5699]

Thank you for taking your time to give us awareness and exposing the truth. God bless you in Jesus name Amen.

[@ApplyGodsWordcomMarkBallenger]

God bless you too! -Mark

[@taraarrington2285]

I think that the best way to know if these church leaders are pastors are like cult leaders is if they say one thing like you know treat others the way you like to be treated and then they act like hypocrites and they don't do that

[@BRNMinistries]

Thank you for this. We're releasing a series on cults and counterfeits in February and will be linking this video in the cards. Wonderful insights here, brother. Bless you for your service to the Lord and His people.

[@leavingtheupci239]

The house 'square footage' rule of thumb was pretty creative! Great video!

[@ApplyGodsWordcomMarkBallenger]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

[@lauraw.7887]

Yes! You described my last church. Thank God that, I'm out. However, I'm finding it difficult to get back in to a church. I went to every service, every Bible study, and served.. The last church I was at was abusive. I just don't want to go through it again. I just don't want to get close to any pastors.

[@dianacelaya3345]

Laura W. I am sorry for what you had to go through. I have been here before, just have this in mind not to blame Christianity because one abusive pastor really messed up. I can point you to some solid churches wherever you are if you’d like ?

[@Pipesyah89]

I don't we believe we need church to be Christians

[@darrickbrown88]

I don't believe we need Christianity to be good

[@Uniq_Jer31vs33_GodHearsAndSees]

@@darrickbrown88 We need a Saviour who takes away our sin. No-one is "good". The thing I love about Jesus is that He said He didn't come to "lord it over" people, like the Pharisees but He came as a servant. Pastors can get into pride and want to control people. That's witchcraft. I've just been in a situation where I was told I need chastisement and correction just for trying to help a 'pastor'. There's no accountability, it's a one-woman show and she has a token Asst Pastor and a Head Pastor who doesn't carry out a pastoral role because he's been busy working on their house (they recently married and he's been slogging away trying to get her newly purchased house ready for the winter.

[@darrickbrown88]

@@Uniq_Jer31vs33_GodHearsAndSees if YOU need a sky daddy to behave as a decent adult, for the sake of us all, please hold on to him. But spare me the indoctrinated word vomit

[@maudieicrochet9491]

Well said. Freud wrote a slim little book on group psychology and how people get led into and take on the group mind.

[@candacecasey5634]

This is why I have a very difficult time in church. I was not brought up to not question anything. Even my first church taught me to search the scripture for myself. In many churches this is actually discouraged and if you do not adhere to every established point of doctrine you are a " heretic".

[@KatyYoder-cq1kc]

Correct. Group Think and Mind Control.

[@TamiraHamilton]

This also applies to businesses, places of employment and network marketing companies

[@ApplyGodsWordcomMarkBallenger]

Thanks for sharing this

[@musicguy9101]

Ain't it the truth!

[@ankymrn]

Wow... I’m still coming to terms that the community I grew up in (and that I left because I was constantly “the problematic one” for not blindly following pre-established authority) ticks all the boxes and even more... and it just makes me so sad because I’ve lost my faith because of that, or rather I can’t find the same passion I had. It’s lost forever, I feel. Now I need to reorganise my thinking on what faith and religion really is and whether or not I actually want to participate. Either way, thank you for this video.

[@silverlily2389]

Don't lose faith, sister. We will get back on track and just take this time to heal and let God work on us again 🙏

[@astrolight5000]

You need real teaching of the word of God. Check out Calvary Chapel Ontario on KZbin. Praying for you sister. Something is wrong only because something right exists. There is a counterfeit because there was first something true.

[@aaronugede]

Aww. So Sorry Anna. Let Christ and Christ alone be your model of who a Christian is and do not be discouraged by the behaviours of other men, be they Church leaders or otherwise. Remember that while we were yet sinners God loved us.

[@mombythesea2426]

What cult did you leave?

[@deannang455]

Please pray for me. I left one. Still have many friends involved. Free but lonely and wonder if I was wrong?

[@journeywithnichole]

No you were not wrong to free yourself! Stay strong 💪. Go within, and ask for healing from this religious trauma.

[@KatyYoder-cq1kc]

Amen, stay strong in the Lord and the power of the Holy Spirit.

[@anonyarena]

I think it would be helpful if you mention that a cult leader does not need to have all 13 characteristics to be a cult leader. For example, most, but not not all cult gurus live in better homes or living conditions as their followers, especially those who live in the same houses, remote communes, or compounds as their followers. Charles Manson lived on the same dilapidated ranch as his group. David Koresh, Marshal Applewhite, and Jim Jones were also living in the same spartan living conditions as their cult members. Also, not all cult leaders have SMALL followings. Moonies and Scientologists are huge cults with many members, but they use the same mind-control techniques as a small cult uses, only on a grand scale.

[@anonyarena]

@@yyy-875 And, we can add to this, that not all cults are even religious in nature. Keith Raniere of the NXIVM cult did not even mention God at all, he only pretended to be a self-help counselor all the while he was slowly and secretly indoctrinating and brainwashing his followers. Imagine allowing someone to "brand" you with their "mark" as if you are cattle on a ranch. You really know you are being dominated and controlled, when you allow someone to burn their symbol into your flesh. Cults can also be political. Lyndon LaRouche was the leader of a political cult. Q-Anon is another political cult that takes this "blind-faith" extremism to the next level, where those followers don't even KNOW who this mysterious "Q" actually IS whom they are following, and yet they still take everything this "Q" says as the absolute truth, and anticipate the fulfillment of predictions, even as prediction after prediction fail to come true. If someone really is a religious person, they should know one of the warnings the Gospel explains is to beware of false prophets, and who can be more false than someone who's predictions repeatedly fail? It's really quite astonishing, to put such unshakable faith in an anonymous someone who flatly refuses to even tell people who they are.

[@wulfclaw4921]

Thanks for putting this out . Isolation, and seperation of family and destruction of marriages is not Gods character. Nor is acting haughty/ arrogant, nor is self righteousnes. Nor is belief that we are to accept mans interpretations, especially when their past reveals a very dark spiritual base and ties to evil spirits, murder, and practicing of the dark arts and summoning spirits in the place they live. Rotten fruit is not meant to consume.

[@misst1928]

A church in my town the pastor had said all of these and it’s a corporate church.

[@maudieicrochet9491]

What is a "corporate church"?

[@ezekiel3934]

@@maudieicrochet9491 I can't mentioned names but okay I'll name a couple of them I rather. Just do your research mega churches is one Mormons are to Johovah witness aka the Wach tower is another one.

[@ezekiel3934]

Who cares if I get a bunch of gangstalking menebers

[@chiquitac.4222]

Thank you for sharing this video message and teaching. Enjoy your day and week.

[@jojieluna1571]

YOU ARE TELLING THE TRUTH SIR 🖒 JESUS BE WITH YOU❤

[@ApplyGodsWordcomMarkBallenger]

Read the Bible and judge all content by that

[@pathinthewilderness9238]

1. Is called the word of knowledge. God still speaks through people. And if you dwell longe in the secret place you will hear him. God is always speaking it takes those who have a relationship with him to hear

[@rtr4342]

mark says they use it for "special authority". word of knowledge is used to bring comfort rebuke knowledge. not to gain authority or appear superior.

[@Emilylucy505]

Also that when God speaks to us it has to align with scripture or in many cases is directly from scripture (a specific verse, passage, book, story, etc) So part of what Mark’s saying is no one has the authority to be adding a commandment or something. God absolutely speaks to us through His word and leading and through others we trust who reference His word but we just need to be cautious about when people say “God told me to tell you” that what they say aligns with the word.

[@19869babygirl]

Great job!! I applaud you.

[@legendaryangel1991]

Another to look out for is when is when a church leader tells you that God’s going to curse you if you don’t bring your first salary of the year as a first fruit offering

[@adude9442]

I'm thankful for this video..

[@matta.5363]

My son fell into a heretical charismatic fundamentalist cult whose leader does most of the things on this list. Whenever anyone criticizes his actions, he claims he's being "persecuted". He also claims he has "liberty" to smoke and drink whiskey at local bars.

[@flowtennispro]

i just exposed one today in service and his followers attacked me in and through me against the wall . definite cult

[@curtismoreland3076]

If there is a woman in charge watch out that's not biblical . Also if there is always a need to speak of demons and spirits watch out fear tactic . Stay in God's word and that won't happen to you

[@queendevi2492]

Oh My God. How do you know Mark that me and my family are going through this cult organisation. Everything you said is true in my church. I am praying to get out of this cult organisation. It's very popular organisation. But I can't name it. 🙄

[@l.patrick3155]

Queen devi Don't drag your feet - get out now!

[@queendevi2492]

L. Patrick yes. We will get out of this Cult organisation. Soon. 🙂

[@pinkfuschia8140]

@@queendevi2492 Every day I automatically include people like you in my prayers, that you are protected as you leave the cult you are in and your mind is deprogrammed from the indoctrination and you are surrounded by Holy Spirit as your helper/advocate/friend as per John 14. It took me years to do this and finally find Jesus.

[@queendevi2492]

@@pinkfuschia8140 Amen

[@Cashitoutside]

Be vigilant...they might have criminals on the payroll.

[@liha810]

Mark B nailing it down ! Only point I'd challenge you on, there are times people are unfairly targeted. Especially if they spit out truth. 🤢🤮

[@honeybeeblossom5846]

Great video thank you, clarified A LOT of things for me 💞💞🙏

[@rebeccakirabo425]

Thank you,Mark for enlightenment on fake pastors. Well, there so many here.

[@naomibuumba5208]

Very correct, we see many of these traits in cults.

[@truthfacts5438]

Basically describes the Adventist church as a whole...

[@suprememagnetic4850]

“God told me to tell you to give me $3,000” “God told me to tell you, if you want to go to heaven, your wife must sleep with me” I’ve seen “pastors” say that 😂

[@Denise-ob8dk]

😯😯😯😯

[@tochukwunjoku]

This is a description of Islam...

[@wes2610]

Tochukwu Njoku, Mohammed meets so many (if not all) of these signs.

[@WeatherMoon]

this also applies to many Christian denominations or groups. I know from experience.

[@chunkymilk1565]

Lol you don't even know Islam, Stop manipulating other people's views on it and acting like a cult leader yourself.

[@chunkymilk1565]

@@wes2610 Everything Mohammed said was in line with what God wanted him to say but today people have changed some of his sayings so for that there are certain books which have preserved his sayings and they are 100% accurate and other than that Islam is against cults and Satanists, Black magic and witch Craft is considered a huge sin and the person has been guaranteed that he'll end up in hell if he does voodoo or rituals and stuff.

[@chunkymilk1565]

@@WeatherMoon These idiots are blabbing lies about Islam but won't talk about the Mormons or the Jesuits who have connections with the Freemasons and Illuminati.

[@chlexiel.1022]

Thank you for sharing. Very helpful.

[@natstarium]

This is spot on! The fellowship I was in took a wrong turn when the pastors wife heeded to pride and was entertained by the though that she was one of the olive trees that stand beside the Lord of the whole earth. She and all the leadership in that fellowship are now full believers in her calling and when one man exposed it to mature Christians the leadership swiftly told the rest to of the church not to have anything to do with those men as they were in rebellion and a very strong deception had come upon them and they were now doing Satan’s work to tear the church of God apart. It’s nothing but fear tactics to keep the blind blind which unfortunately worked causing a lot of people to shun these men before they heard what their issue was all because they were afraid of being deceived. The leadership now believe this woman is blameless and anyone who thinks not or disagrees with her on anything is deceived and sent by Satan to try and prevent her from her calling. It’s sad really that none of them can see that they’ve elevated her to a status of Goddess.

[@candacecasey5634]

Those people are not on the earth today. They are in heaven and have not yet died.

[@sandywilliams2836]

Thanks for the video. Just to add that not all cults are religion based. They can be political, spiritual, self development or even sport club based... same kind of techniques and rhetoric used though

[@alizejess777]

Awesome video!!! Truth right here!

[@ApplyGodsWordcomMarkBallenger]

So glad you enjoyed it!

[@steffyrae222]

THIS is totally describing Bethel and basically, every NAR church.

[@dianeschrotenboer6987]

Yes! And the multi level ministry “the Burn” that Sean Feught started. I am familiar with one of their “furnaces” whose leaders are evil to the core.

[@pierre.stephanie45]

Why does this sound like a lot these popular preachers on tv!?

[@castingemail740]

Alot of logical chruches also if you really pay attention

[@skyhaykay2968]

Because they are cult leaders lol

[@ma.graciagianan-recuenco4095]

Thank you very much!🙏

[@ApplyGodsWordcomMarkBallenger]

You are welcome!

[@LM-hf1qz]

Wow I know a rehab Center like this where the Director acts exactly like this all under the name of God! 😳

[@ezekiel3934]

Let me guess Victoria out reach lol

[@joeexhibitsekum5266]

Great video

[@jmk1966]

This is the definition of a church I was established with as a teenager & on-off again in my 20s. Mind blowing stuff here!

[@shelleyfarny3775]

Some very godly and anointed leaders DO hear God and should speak His wisdom when the Holy Spirit leads. And when it is Spirit-led, it will always be for the person's edification, in service to them, giving out of love, or protecting the flock as their shepherd. It should never be done to manipulate, control or simply lord authority over others. That is the red flag. Motive is key.

[@exceptionaldoc9088]

Thank you for bringing balance to this.

[@SHMcovers]

thank you for this video.. i am currently deprogramming my faith and church community ive been too

[@KenjiHouston]

The turning point for me was George Bloomer's "Witchcraft in the Pews". The book was about 20 different mind tricks that they're used in toxic churches. 19 or 20 of those were happening in the church I was going to. Was convicted to leave.

[@howtoart9201]

Very insightful!!

[@ethyna214]

3. "God sent me to . . " 10 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. 11 And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, 12 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight. 13 Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: 14 And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. 15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: 16 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. 17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. -Acts 9:10-17 17 Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made enquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate, 18 And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there. 19 While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee. 20 Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them. 21 Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come? 22 And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee. 23 Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him. - Acts 10:17-23 Read Acts 22 on your own. God had sent Ananias, Peter and Paul to specific places and this was done as obedience. Are they cult leaders?

[@jswilliams3510]

ethyna214, no I don’t think so. There are several references of God said to me ..., God sent me ..., the thing is when you are truly filled with the Holy Spirit you say the messenger is God yet it could be an angel he sent for all we know. Mark is warning of the cults that exist in this day and age who are false teachers with an evil agenda. I’ve been researching and it breaks my heart that there are so many. Anyway you made a good reference. Please keep reading and researching and questing for it it keeps us safe. I am. Peace!

[@CalledUntoHoliness]

I don't think that is what he was saying.

[@CDK7992]

Absolutely 👌 right on these points

[@lulenao3987]

Thank you for enlightening on this issue. My own pastor stubbornly refuse to let the offering including tithes to be counted before submitting, even returned certain collection because it was counted before submitting. He shouted in church AGM that he is not answerable to anyone and that no one has the right to 'tell him' what he should do. He don't follow the financial rule. Millions of rupees budgeted are spent as "Grant" so that there is no real audit. What should I do for myself? Leave the church? Reform is impossible now

[@KillDominicCosta]

Thank you 🙏🏽🎉

[@TheMagpieOfficial]

In the new age community it’s “I received a download” meaning god told them specially

[@moxig5717]

Yes yes yes, I noticed this when my stepfather passed away, my brother started a go fund me for my mother, and she doesn’t even need it, he is taking out life insurance on her, and he is using all the proceeds, which includes my inheritance to build a new home on his lot!!! And I’m not allowed to even visit her because I’m not part of his church

[@Carlos-34-87]

Brother I love you so much . God bless you always in Jesus name I pray Amen

[@tanishablack6490]

You are so Right!!!!

[@ApplyGodsWordcomMarkBallenger]

So glad it was helpful!

[@iudeleiudele]

Very good message and advise. Thank you for give it. Just allow me an observation : I don't know why you are so careful when you speak about them. There is no need. Those people are DESPICABLE.

[@andrewkraz7868]

Brilliant video. 👏

[@iBELONG2GOD]

Also with #4 , they are good for saying "touch not thine anointed." Completed misusing this scripture.

[@pamelav.5699]

🌈Very helpful ThankYou

[@ApplyGodsWordcomMarkBallenger]

Glad it was helpful!

[@maulenaspencer4906]

This video is right-on !!! When I lived in a Bible-based cult (we were supposedly going to live like the first Christians), the justification for the leader taking so much money was 2 Bible verses, "Muzzle not the ox that treadeth out the corn," and "The laborer is worthy of his hire." (I think they made it worthy of double). Definitely couldn't question him because he compared himself to (wait for it, not the New Testament)...Moses, and any question was called "causing divisions." Our cult allegedly had the only truth because we were going to just read the Bible and let it speak for itself (right), and all other churches had "false doctrine."

[@alimccreery755]

Interesting, I used to live in a house where the owner told me to my face that his house was the only safe place for me. I don’t think so, I finally had the opportunity to get the heck out of there but it’s said that the narcissist will find a way to always keep tabs on their targets/victims. I believe it 👍👍

[@b_vlogz163]

God bless you my brother

[@johnbyerlein6682]

Outstanding presentation