Ex-IFB: My Shiny Happy People Story✨Why I left the Independent Fundamental Baptist Church

Why we left the IFB (Independent Fundamental Baptist Church) This is not what I normally post but I feel this story needs to be told. I watched the "Shiny Happy People" documentary on Amazon and it made me see clearly that hushed silence allows bad things to perpetuate. I was asked to "be silent" about Mike Zachary but now that the person I was supposed to be silent about seems to have mysteriously left yet another church (Lighthouse Baptist Church), I just don't want to be part of the problem anymore. Here is the forum that archived the statements from the past churches (and pastors) he was involved with before the statements were deleted. www.fundamenta... Honestly this person will probably never show up at your church, but these situations and these types of folks very well may. I don't want to perpetuate rumors, but there are some cold hard things I saw with my own eyes surrounded by the mysterious disappearance of various church members/ friends. (They didn't die or anything, they just mysteriously left the church we were part of. The person I speak of was involved in the music program and the majority of the mysterious "leavers" were also part of the music program, just too many "coincidences" for there not to be a connection.) After we left, we spoke to some of the people in the music program who had already left and they also sighted the strangeness involved with this person as the reason they left. We love Jesus, the Bible, and this experience hasn't diminished our faith, but it has made our whole family more cautious and less trusting of those in charge of church. This isn't necessarily a bad thing because the consequences of "blind trust" in man can be really devastating. A channel that covers the IFB church more fully is ‪@PreacherBoys‬ Also the 20/20 • Independent Fundamenta... and dateline episodes are on KZbin. (I can’t find the dateline episode but I think it is still on KZbin.) Here is another video specifically about GSBC and Mike Zachary. fb.watch/lrWRL...

[@colleenhoward5818]

Your motherly intuition protected your kids. You didn’t let the church tell you how to think. Well done, Amber.

[@TheHappyCaravan]

🙏❤️

[@Sarah-psalm127]

That's the holy spirit

[@maryhollingsworth2856]

Church should not have pedophilia at all. Pedophiles should not be leading church. Falsely accused? Christians are lying? The girls are lying? I can't believe this. Of course you only want full disclosure. Don't go to an IFB church at all. Period. DONT GO TO A PATRIARICAL CHIRCH. Go to a church where people are serving each other and encouragingv each other to pray for your own answers.

[@LiveSophiaBlog]

@@TheHappyCaravanatzyfse

[@ItsNanaImHere]

​@@TheHappyCaravanagree💯 Amber😉💭 That's what God Can Do Sweet Momma🙏💯❗.... I missed y'all so👋👋 I'm 👀 around at things I missed😁❤❗

[@karenellis4126]

As someone who went to church with you, I'm glad you took a stand. He made me very nervous and I watched his keen interest in young boys. I still love the years I spent at Lighthouse, I learned so much Bible and made great friends. Like you, I have moved to another state and I'm thankful I found a good church. It's good to see your family is doing so well. 😊

[@daramichels947]

A pastor who allows and welcomes a potential pedophile into church leadership isn't a merciful or kind hearted person. You did the right thing.

[@nohorasims656]

Yes i dont think he himself was that innocent

[@desertqueenaz7895]

Exactly and that's why I left church as a child

[@amnz-pq6py]

@@desertqueenaz7895 because of what ONE person did? I believe the phrase that 'one bad apple spoils the whole barrel' can be true, but in this case, we are each accountable for our own actions. What that pastor did was wrong, but you rejected an ENTIRE church for the actions of ONE person. You say you left the church when you were a child. Were you attending by yourself?

[@ItsNanaImHere]

💯% agree😒😢 , Praise God Her momma intuition took over 😉💭❗.... God is so good ❤🙏❤

[@melissaw6446]

Goodness. I'm just seeing this, and your "standing on the chair" moment really touched me. You knew. You knew before it was as obvious to others. I honestly believe that a mother's intuition is very, very strong. I also believe that comes from God. Mike Zachary. Let's say his name over and over until all people are warned. Good job, mama!

[@lyndamcdon]

I'm so happy I listened to this. I was apart of the IFBC through their bus ministry in the 90's! I came from a two-parent home though in a fairly nice neighborhood. All the minority kids (me included) really enjoyed that time. We attended vacation bible school in the summers, and went to midweek bible study. I learned a lot about the bible during that time. Unfortunately, the kids in the bus ministry were segregated from the kids who were "fundies". All activities were done separately. There were some great things I still appreciate from my early years. I will say this, we were picked up from our homes and cared for throughout the day by only the white men of the church. I remember all their names and never felt unsafe in their care. As a parent now, I wouldn't send my kids to church solo with people I don't know, even though my experience was great.

[@heapenn]

Thanks for sharing your story, Amber. The more this is talked about (hopefully) the more will change. And thank you for sharing about your struggle with depression!! Glad your family is doing well

[@TheHappyCaravan]

❤️🙏

[@kathymorris7623]

I have a much greater respect for you. You sharing your story will hopefully give other people the courage to speak up and see the signs. You rock. God bless ❤

[@TheHappyCaravan]

❤️🙏

[@AutumnLeaf24]

and they now can listen to rock, too! 😅😄

[@bevmacmillan7079]

This was a very compelling story. Sometimes you have to go with your gut. This shows you are self aware.

[@Harperb626]

I listened to this whole story and I have chills especially with that story about your pastor. Always listen to your intuition!!!

[@rebekahrutt5491]

Was in an IFB church from birth to age 30. Things like this STILL go on. A protest just took place last Sunday at First Hammond Baptist. The #letusprey documentary just came out exposing different people and churches in the IFB. Eric with The Preachers Boy podcast has done a good job keeping track of different things that happen in IFB churches.

[@candacekraut5050]

Focus on the kids learning to follow Jesus and not the world.

[@mjoy4382]

Amber, thank you for your honesty. You have put on the full armor of God and are exercising the belt of truth! You said you almost didn’t share this, or that you might take it down later… thank you for sharing this publicly, because it was just what I needed to hear. After watching Shiny Happy People, I was horrified because my eyes were opened to some of what I grew up with. (I already knew the truth, but the documentary made things very clear that even I am tempted to forget.) When abuse and neglect are covered up by the church it leaves a young and vulnerable person in the worst kind of place. I’m thankful I still have my faith, but sadly still haven’t found a church I feel I belong in as I’ve been hurt by so many over and over (and over, sorry to say). But what you shared brought me some comfort and hope in at least solidarity and that maybe the more people speak up there may be change. Thanks for your courage, Amber.

[@pastorlauren1940]

The church I grew up in was heavily influenced by the IBLP and had associations with Hyles Anderson College. It had such a negative impact on our church (how we dressed, the music we listened to, the books we read, etc.) We weren’t quiverfull but the section on Shiny Happy People about discipline really struck a chord in me. It was like living in a constant state of fear! I always felt like I was one bad outfit away from hell. I’m thankful God brought me out of such an oppressive environment into his loving grace.

[@cjdflkj]

Jack Hyles and his son and son in law were/are perverts. I’m sorry you had to go there.

[@GBody-sn5ok]

You're a pastor? 😂 This woman along with you cherry pick verses in the bible. You most likely read the satanic inspired liberal trash versions like the NIV, ESV, NKJV, etc. You get the point!

[@presleypennartz6269]

Thank you for speaking about this !!! It’s more hurtful for the church to stay silent about these issues that do not represent Christ and who he is.

[@mrsbethanyelise]

You are such a sweet soul 🙏 Blind allegiance to any human leader will always get people in trouble sadly. Only God is truly worthy 100% of the time!

[@libbyoconnor7859]

I appreciate the attitude you bring to this. There are so many people who choose to leave a movement but are hateful toward everyone in it (including their parents if they remain). There are problems with abuse and cover ups, specifically within certain IFB circles (the ones you referenced are chief among those). Unfortunately, those problems permeate many organizations, religious or otherwise. Creeps follow kids, and institutions that make them seem more trustworthy (give them credibility, etc.) are particularly favorable to their nefarious purposes. You’re right: the moral of the story is “be careful with your kids.” I think statistics show that most cases abuse are perpetrated by family members or close friends. That alone should tell us that you have to be careful: if you need to be watchful of those closest to you, you need to be watchful of those further from you too. Anyway, I did want to drop in and say that there are many IFB churches that reject the “coverup” culture. In fact, there’s a pastor in Maryland who wrote a book against that “culture.” His name is Stacey Shifflett. I don’t remember the name of the book and I don’t know much about him, but I did want to mention that not all IFB churches are alike (they are independent, after all). We could not stay in a church where the pastor allowed a predator to hold a leadership position once it was brought to his attention: the safety of our children (and others’) is more important. Besides, it’s not biblical.

[@cynthiacondron9397]

Never be to trusting of others be alone with your children. Thank you for your courage to bring this situation publicly.

[@desertqueenaz7895]

Agreed

[@marykirkpatrick9382]

Thank you for sharing. Anything that goes to extremes is always a red flag to me. ❤️

[@joangelaparker2845]

Where do you get she’s blaming this on music , doesn’t matter what Dept it was in most Christians would leave the church and find another .

[@LisaBailey-sassy]

Thank you for your truthful story. I know that was hard for you. But I am proud of you for speaking out.

[@keepgoodcompany1279]

Thanks for sharing! I grew up my entire life in the IFB (early 80s) til about 8 years ago. I would love to be shocked. But no. I knew many of those names, and in the 6 IFB churches we attended from birth to my early 30s, 4 had pastors leave for huge sexual sins. And yes, all 4 went to different states to work at different IFB churches. In addition, I was sexually assaulted as a child at a church. But it wasn’t until my husband and I left and started attending a different denomination that I realized the gospel of grace vs legalism. I have mental and emotional scars from the IFB, and like you scan the room for who might be the abuser. I do not just trust my child to church people ever. While I will not spend my time harping against the IFB (after all, I did become a Christian there), I will not be silent nor actively participate in an IFB church again. I’m so glad you and Marc realized the sin lurking under the surface.

[@kimkerley4218]

I’m glad you are warning people!!!! Got to protect the children! 😊

[@fredseeley4996]

I AM SO, SO VERY GLAD THAT YOU LISTENED TO YOUR HEART AND MIND IN SENSING SOMETHING WAS VERY STRANGE AND WRONG ABOUT THIS SITUATION BETWEEN THIS PARTICULAR CHURCH WORKER AND HIS "UNACCEPTABLE" INTERACTION WITH YOUR HUSBAND AND, ABOVE ALL, WITH YOUR YOUNG SONS!!! IT SCREAMED "DANGER", AND YOU CLEARLY UNDERSTOOD THAT AND HELPED YOUR FAMILY MAKE THE SUCCESSFUL MOVE AWAY FROM THAT "DANGER"!!! WE HAVE ALL HEARD STORY AFTER STORY ABOUT INNOCENT PEOPLE BEING DRAGGED UNWILLINGLY INTO UNHEALTHY SITUATIONS BECAUSE OF TROUBLED, SICK PEOLPE ENTICING OTHERS DOWN A PATH OF EVIL -DOING!!! YOUR INTUITION SAVED YOUR FAMILY A LOT OF HEARTACHE TO SAY THE LEAST!!!! GOOD FOR YOU!!!!

[@dianebieber1783]

Thank you for sharing yout story. For noticing oddities, for your intuition, for your strength. I applaud Mark too, for listening to you for being brave. You are right of course that any entity run by a few in charge of many is dangerous. Dangerous to children, to girls and boys. WATCH because no human is perfect. You are a brave voice in the dark.

[@SRAC2023]

Thank You for sharing your story. So so sad that people do this to innocent people and that changes someone for the rest of their lives. Glad you we’re strong to make the best decision for your family. Proud of you 😊

[@TheHappyCaravan]

🙏❤️ Honestly I’m just so grateful that people online were brave enough to talk about it or I would not have known. Kids are so trusting and it’s scary as a parent to navigate things for them.

[@eileenrabil3997]

Thank you for your courage in sharing your story and for bringing light to this.

[@TheHappyCaravan]

❤️🙏

[@suzannesahl1699]

Thank you for sharing your story. I can relate to much what you have shared. I was raised in a conservative Baptist church but there wasn't anything weird about that. I went to a very conservative Bible school in Alberta, Canada during after high school from 67 to 71. The dress code was rather strict, only dresses that covered the knees . This was during a time when the Mini skirt was very popular. And it was very hard to find appropriate dresses. No contact with the opposite sex. In other words no dating. After 4 years of Bible school, I went to. ASU our State University to become a teacher. My first teaching job was in a christian school operated by two Independent fundamental Baptist churches. The first part of the school year went great, however, once the principal and pastor of the school started to atte the Bil Gothard conferences, he became very contolin and mae my life miserable going home crying. I ended up teaching at two other Christian schools but none of them wanted to pay me a living wage because I was a single woman. For the next 20 years I taught in public schools as a bilingual elementary teacher. I got married at age thirty six and we adopted our first child when I was forty one. When my daughter finished second grade, she asked me to home schooled her so I did home school her along with her cousins for the next seven years. I see that you're quite balanced despite the fact that you have seen a lot of negativity within the church. Praise God that you have instinct but I believe it could be more than that as a Christian the Holy Spirit can speak to you.

[@suzannesahl1699]

Thank you.

[@mingshi7771]

Totally agree with you and I'm glad you and your family have stayed within the faith. God has truly blessed you guys with spiritual gifts and I believe that you've been blessed with the gift of speech. I can hear the sincerity in your voice

[@rhondamckinley4373]

Thank you for sharing this important information. So many people take care of their own, but not others. Sins of omission and commission are accountable.

[@foreverlovemountainhomeste5657]

You’re a righteous mama and never apologize for standing in your truth and protecting your children! The internet can be a blessing and a curse……. May you continue to navigate your path with love & light!

[@nohorasims656]

Thankyou so much for being real and sharing. People need to be transparent and quit lifting men up and not questioning people.

[@kathybailey1821]

Yay for following your intuition. Prayers for your lovely family.

[@TheHappyCaravan]

🙏❤️Thank you!

[@daniellebourgal8945]

Thanks for sharing , thank Jesus you were not blinded, and you listened to your heart and protected your children❤!

[@maxinebellows741]

I love a church that sings the hyms I grew up with. In the 60's our pastor, methodist, welcomed the long hair, jeans and hippies. Our church was packed! I'm so glad you are so protective with your children! I know some "so- called Christians that are not good people!

[@TheHappyCaravan]

Yes! Hymns are so beautiful and I wish I could find more arrangements for the kids to play. They are so timeless. Even contemporary singers make their own spin on these beautiful songs.

[@teresabringas4839]

Great, very insightful, message. You are spot on. You are so strong and honest. Thank you. You’re correct!!!!! Following your instincts to protect your children no matter who says they’re in charge. Yeah

[@TheHappyCaravan]

❤️❤️❤️🙏

[@nikkimartin9487]

This just popped up on my recommendation and i wanted to watch it. Im a follow of Christ not religious because of this! Ive turned my back from God because i went to a southern Baptist Church and they quite literally put the fear of God in me and i told myself if thats how its gonna be i dont wanna be apart of it. But after covid happened i started to read my bible for myself and getting to know God for myself. At the time my husband was in the military and he was about to get out so I prayed and I prayed for years for a church that was right for my family. I'm from South Carolina so you know I'm in the bible belt and when we moved home my husband met this guy through paintball and he invited us to church and it was a God thing. I'm so blessed cause here we are three years later active in the Church. It really breaks my heart the older I get in the more I learn about different churches and denominations a lot of them sound like cults in my opinion. My pastor is a very good pastor he is real and raw and doesn't sugarcoat nothing. He tells us about his past addiction his drinking hiw his wife left him for another woman and how the Baptist Church turn their back on him and he left ministry for awhile. When I walk in church I feel like I'm home and that's how church should feel. My church who never makes us feel guilty if we can't be truly active into the church or worried about how much money we're giving he tells us we should give but give what we can and that you can't out give God. It makes me truly sad that people experience these things because this is people's doing not God's.

[@lolo54260]

I fell away too after going to a ifb church who really made me feel so ashamed of myself and as if i could never be holy enough. I ended up being afraid of finding a new church but now i'm at a non denominational christian church where they teach the bible and Jesus. it's so sad all the false teachings out there. God is so faithful that he brings us out of those churches though still believing in him. I also went to a mormon church, catholic church, and other church's that need to know Gods love instead of these written rules and traditions of men. What we need is Christ crucified and the holy spirit to give us discernment instead of the guilt and works based church's. It's sad because many traumatized people are led by these false teachings. I just pray that Gods will change their hearts.

[@b.hepworth3669]

You are so amazing! I feel God is blessing you for following Him! You will never go wrong when you are truly following GOD! I so love your platform and pray for you 🙏 ❤️from a stay at home mom, homeschooling 3 tweens❤

[@ejdoug8328]

Unfortunately we had an outside incident involving someone in our church. It's a nondenominational church. It's so sad but you need to keep your eyes open everywhere and unfortunately church is no exception to that rule. My kids are grown but today sleepovers would be a thing of the past. Thank you for sharing that story.

[@christsservant5472]

I got baptized In Jesus name ( Acts 2:38) and the Holy Spirit filled me and I received the gifts of tongues and now I have been with Jesus for 14 years and He changed my life completely. He healed me and I have had many visions and dreams of Jesus. My new life with God is so amazing!

[@mc5366]

Thank you Amber for sharing your very important experience and your Mom instincts. So many creeper people hide in Christianity to get close to our children.

[@AutumnLeaf24]

This reminds me of the saying, "Silence means approval" It takes courage to be bold. My family was recently talking about that documentary! Interesting. I hope that this video does not get 'scrubbed'! God bless!!!

[@TheHappyCaravan]

Thank you! Yes I was told that being silent was the right thing to do. But after watching the documentary I realized that other people need to know. I’m so grateful in our situation for the forum that saved the statements by the pastors. Their honesty helped keep our family safe.

[@leslieprebyl6238]

I so agree with every thing you said, especially toward the end. I can't stand it when people who hide behind religion. I am just like you and tend to be skeptical. Women have a sixth sense about things (more then men) and we need to pay attention to it. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@BruceLKennedy]

Hi! I’m the one you’re referencing at 45:22. Thank you so much for sharing your experience and perspective! ✊💚

[@katieb9312]

I’m so sorry this happened to your family and thank God for His Holy Spirit to guide us. I had a slightly similar experience in our church (not fundamental just regular evangelical). A man was being super friendly with my husband but would not “include” me in the conversations. I had such a strange vibe every time he was around and became increasingly uncomfortable. Then at a church party event, he honed in on my 6 year old son and was helping him with a game but super touchy feely, which is so strange since we all know that we need to be extra cautious interacting with others’ kids these days. When I’d try to intervene, he would say, oh no I’ll help him. Then he proceeded to day he could bring him to a movie with his free prize. Not over my dead body! I could not sleep it was a nightmare. Thankfully my husband listens to me and confronted the guy but it was super awkward. He ended up becoming children’s pastor two months later. And then a month later, Covid started and we never went back to the church. I thank God for protecting my family. I am super cautious and don’t trust anyone these days, I want to protect my children and it doesn’t matter who they are, we are their God-given parents and responsible to protect them.

[@TheHappyCaravan]

Wow that story is so similar to mine! It’s so good that you were able to get out of that situation!

[@jacqueline8559]

When my sons were small , there was a middle aged guy who became friendly with boys (aged about 7) in Church. He had been a friend of my husband and they attended the same Housegroup. He was very 'touchy feely ' with the younger men in this group., always hugging them in Church at random times.(Not just in greeting, I mean). My husband was 19 when we met, and this guy was controlling towards the teens in this Group. Fortunately, my husband was, and is, Spiritually very mature so wasnt open to his 'leadership'. We later learned that 2 others in the Group , both very vulnerable guys with depression, were abused by this man when they were younger. They accepted him as an Adult Supportive figure. Each guy met us ( future wives) and he very actively tried to break up each and every relationship!!. He failed to stop any of us marrying, Determined women who had strong prayer lives with our partners 😊😂 I felt the Holy Spirit in me, warning about him, every time we were near, I always felt really, really uncomfortable around him., Eventuallly, one night I became aware he was sitting in Church with a young boy on his lap. Completely engrossed in this child, rubbing his leg and back. Others were also obviously 'covertly' watching this child and concerned. (There were whispers in Church that he'd been recently disciplined by Leadership, for untoward ' friendliness" with young boys!!) I spoke to the Pastor, who said the Leadership were aware of problems. So why weren't they acting, I demanded. .... they were watching to see how he acted around kids, he said!! When our 2 sons were 4 and 8, he started just randomly turning up at our home uninvited, and being over-friendly towards them. Over my dead body was i allowing him near my sons!! On unwanted visit 3, when id deliberately been really rude on the previous 2 visits, i wouldnt let him into our house, and warned him never to visit again. I made it plain to my husband, that he was neither to come to our home, nor were my sons to be taken to his flat ( he would request help with jobs around the house) My husband didn't trust him, but would help out if he needed anything doing, eg laying a new carpet, etc He stopped doing these jobs, and warned this guy that he was not welcome in our home. His few friends made our lives Hell afterwards, in Church, and we had to move to another one as the Leadership just ignored the harassment we were put under.. This man insisted that he had a 'Ministry to young boys,' when questioned by the Leadership??? . We left the area and didn't see him again. He abused a little boy soon after , and was arrested.!! Then other children, who were abused but now older, came forward too. He was still proclaiming he was " doing God's work". Sorry, this is an Essay 😂 .

[@cjdflkj]

Good for you leaving! We really need to call out, kick out, and punish perverts in the church.

[@ncpdelrosario2122]

First ❤️, I believe everyone should be free to have their own belief. I'm a Christian myself, but i respect other people's belief or view. That's just my opinion. I remember the story of Peoples Temple, it's so horrible ❌.

[@TheHappyCaravan]

❤️❤️❤️

[@lorisullivan327]

Oh gosh… I can’t imagine… thank God you’re protective… I’m so sorry - as far as harmless, even pinching, and Massaging, and, if it’s unwelcome, it’s abuse… 💔 the sad part is that you get so tainted and it can be hard to believe that there are decent people out there that aren’t predators

[@TheHappyCaravan]

Yes, I try to be balanced in everything. Most people truly are kind. But now the kids know what to look for. This situation has helped the kids to be alert.

[@lorisullivan327]

@@TheHappyCaravan thank you for being brave - and your vid wasn’t accusatory… 🧡 I get it - I know Who I answer to

[@mimijulene6307]

Amber I believe the feelings you had that something was wrong with Mike Zachary was the Holy Spirit nudging you to further investigate. I’m glad your husband listened to what you had to say and that you left before he had the opportunity to try and groom your boys. We don’t like to think it happens in the church, but you are right, we must be aware and protect our children and ourselves from people like this!

[@suzannesahl1699]

I agree that nudge was the Holy Spirit speaking to her.

[@Sarah-psalm127]

The fact that she was so disturbed that she looked up his name and was able to find just the right information was God's protection over her boys.

[@marykirkpatrick9382]

I do agree with dressing in a more modest fashion. Today it seems like everyone let's everything hang out and at a very young age. Not a good thing.

[@heathermorrison2785]

Thank-you so much for sharing your heart and personal experience with the IFBC. Never be ashamed to share the truth! I know your courage to speak out will help so many others that find themselves in this same situation. We are a homeschooling family of 7 that have attended three different IFB churches. We were shocked at the amount of spiritual and sexual abuse we learned about that involved our pastors, children and other church members. From the outside these churches and their members seemed liked the perfect haven for our family but proved to be the opposite. We were shocked at how much the sin was covered up by the church leadership. We have since left the IFB churches and like you I am very cautious of everyone we come in contact with. I love watching your family an especially your shopping and cooking videos. You give me so much encouragement and inspiration!

[@TheHappyCaravan]

Thanks you for your story. I felt so alone when we were going through all of this but I know now that lots of families have gone through the same thing and have emerged stronger.❤️

[@LinNBen]

Hi Amber! Thank you for sharing your story. Love & Blessings to you & your family.

[@bonefinderdog5884]

You have done many of us a great service by sharing your story. I stumbled upon your channel awhile ago because of the music connection, which was my background for many years. Your lifestyle ( dresses, large family etc.) did pique my curiosity about religion but would have never kept me from watching your videos. I think the most important take away on this video is completely unrelated to religion only and that ALL PARENTS/grandparents, adults in a position of trust, must have a strict code to follow to keep their children safe. Our now adult daughters never did sleep overs. If there was to be a sleep over party, we would have it at OUR house. The girls were never allowed in vehicles with anybody except us or an immediate family member whom we had complete trust. Grandma. We follow these same tenets with our 7 year old grand son and 8 year old granddaughter, who live with us during the school week as we live in a much smaller community where we can, in a nutshell, monitor EVERYTHING. I attend all school board meetings etc. We never let these two children go anywhere without our supervision. There will never be sleep overs or trips with anybody except us or their mother/stepfather. It's a sad world we live in but this is REALITY and it's only a fool who refuses to examine that possibility. It only takes once to ruin a child. They are too precious for that. Wonderful video. I thank you.

[@TheHappyCaravan]

Thanks for sharing your story. It’s a heavy task, but the vigilance is really worth it.❤️

[@susiecox8413]

Hi Amber, Thank you for sharing your story. I think there are many who need to see this because they can be to TRUSTING of others. You hit the nail on the head when you said know peoples MOTIVES. Keep your eyes opens, be aware and be alert for the protection of your children. Trust your gut!!

[@catieb6782]

thank you for sharing your story, . I’m proud of you for listening to the Spirit and your momma instincts!!

[@TheHappyCaravan]

❤️❤️❤️🙏

[@lindamorgan7826]

It did expose the negative ILBP but at the end it lumped everyone in together and was basically critical of all evangelical Christians. It is what you would expect of a secular documentary. Glad you are on the alert. Your Mom and I said the same thing about Gothsrd.😂😂

[@davisreed9002]

Thank you for sharing, watching the little things grow up day by day in the playfulness is more healing than anything else

[@jilldornbush6960]

Truly enjoyed your perspective. Thank you for sharing.

[@ashlieleavelle]

We weren't in the IBLP, but i grew up in IFB. I loved it. My parents were balanced. Thry weren't too strict. I was allowed to wear pants. We wore 1 piece swimsuits. I know some people were over the top, but my upbringing was so nice. I feel for all those who were hurt in IFB families and churches. I hope people remember that because someone had a bad experience, it doesn't mean everyone had that experience. When you talked about Hyles Anderson.....it does exist. 😊

[@TheHappyCaravan]

Yes, there are a lot of nice people in the church❤️

[@ellianna.keller]

Yesss girl!! I think it's kind of important to know that independent churches are independent so they are going to be different. Plus, the IFB churches in most cases didn't require that or act like to do that was more holy or that you couldn't be saved unless you followed a set of rules. Just a lot of people in those churches had those convictions

[@amyaldrich780]

Great job listening to your “gut” and the Spirit. Any organization can have this kind of inapporpriate behavior and poor leadership that goes on. We must always be on our toes…especially as parents! Of course, not all churches are this way…but we must be “wise as serpents.” Way to go, Amber! 👍🏼

[@melissabolyn3929]

Thank you for sharing. I feel so much like you - have common sense and trust your intuition!

[@TheHappyCaravan]

❤️❤️🙏

[@priscillaolivero1551]

Your brilliance, wisdom, perception, and strength is amazing! Thank you for your love for God and His Word and your desire to lead your children in truth and protect your children from harm.

[@danageibel]

You actually are quite gracious even while pointing out problems and challenges with the IFB church.. Again, thank you so much! This story is also a good reminder of grooming techniques used by people who want to manipulate children

[@kjarsti1276]

Thank you for honesty and opening your family up to us. I just wanted to send some love to try and outweigh the negative comments. People can be so mean behind a screen and words do hurt. But you guys do you!! We all live differently, thankfully because we live in a free nation. So keep on keeping on!❤

[@daveshoemaker7137]

You have helped people to open their eyes to the evil out there! Sometimes the places you'd least expect are the worst! My sister and her husband were very faithful church members and when her husband died and she still had young children at home not one person was nice to her. She didn't drive and no one ever offered to take her and her two children to church! She never went back to church and she said it hurt that no one cared! My wife said the women at church were rude and nasty! They gossiped about everyone! She was in charge of a during church program for young kids and one girl was sent back to church crying. They told her she was too old. I walked her down and told them to let her stay. My wife talked to her mother and said she can stay. Her mother said her daughters and her were new to the area and wanted to find a church! She took her name and number and told the minister to give her a call because they had a bad start. He said not another newly divorced mother! They are so needy! My wife told him she will go and find a church where they are welcomed! We never saw her again! We left that church and still do not belong to one. We visit different churches but will not be joining any again!

[@teamcougars]

What happens in the dark always comes to the light at some point thankfully ❤

[@naturalsimpleliving]

Wow, thank you for sharing all of this. I'm always asked if I'm part or was I part of that church because of our family size, the way we live, and especially the dresses. We did find the Duggars around the same time we started having more children. God called me to be a mother, and after my 4th baby, we were very open to life. Seeing other families living this way, we realized we were not alone. We were never part of a religion (we are Catholic now), which always stumped people. Having a large family was a total God thing, not a religious thing! Okay, I'm going back on to finish your video. Sending love from Wisconsin!💕

[@TheHappyCaravan]

Thank you!❤️ Yes I bought all of the Duggar dvds until around 2012 because we didn’t have a tv. I remember feeling like I could never be so organized and so forth. And of course I’m not that organized. But now I see that’s ok. We are all on a journey. My heart breaks for all of the victims and so forth. It helps remind me to be more and more vigilant.

[@damarishopkins3926]

Thanks for sharing. It is a wonderful blessing to be able to guided by God's voice. To hear Him. Your intuition is exactly that. Your conviction is exactly that. You heard the word and acted upon it as intended. It takes substance and bravery to take a stance for what you believe especially when faced with opposition surrounding you.

[@suzannesahl1699]

As a Christian, we have more than intuition , we have the Holy Spirit who will guide us to the knowledge of the truth so we can make righteous decisions.

[@haydenritchie9850]

Thank you for posting this ♥️ I didn’t grow up in the IFB, but as a homeschooler had plenty of friends who did. I identify with your story in many ways because I’ve spent a decent amount of my married life in a particular denomination and we’ve recently left for similar reasons to you all. But it was definitely me that has the red flags raised first and that was difficult. So thank you for sharing!

[@kayheart1413]

Good mama! Praise God. Always have your radar on. Never turn it off. I am like that too.

[@Pinkkermit17]

I liked listening to your story. I am personally not a church person , i don’t believe in everything any religion has to say and my beliefs are a smorgasbord of different ideas, but I do believe to each their own as long as we are not hurting others.

[@RYAN20246]

You have such a beautiful spirit within you

[@cumberlandquiltchic1]

Wow. I think it’s so good that you shared this. The truth is the truth and the facts are the facts. You should share your life lessons, might help many and even if it saves one person…. I’m glad I found your channel.

[@ruthmckee4905]

We are in a battle and surely the enemy is after the children. Beware of the wolves sent to disturb the sheep. Remember that God is conforming His people to the image of His Son. He will take us through the storms of life and there we get to know the Lord in a more intimate way. Just think what the disciples learned about Jesus when they watched HIm calm the storm. So much love to your family. God has set you on a special path and as parents you are doing an amazing job of following His lead as you take your children by the still waters and into green pastures. Fight the good fight of faith. Through faith we have victory. Hugs to you all.

[@maggiecleverley]

Thank you for your honesty about this matter. You are a strong Christian woman

[@teamcougars]

Being proud of your accomplishments should not be considered a bad thing especially for children 😢

[@shayj3373]

I can so relate to a lot of what you've shared. There was a fairly large IBLP group that attended the church where my parents, sibling, and I attended (from my early teens - my 20's). And that church is a IFB church. However, I don't think that the leadership is a part of any kind of IFB association; it had previously been a part of the Southern Bapt Convention, but the leadership separated from that established back in the mid to late 80's due to doctrinal differences. I could write a book or two about that group of IBLP followers. They basically tried to infiltrate and force the Pastors to preach all the IBLP teachings from the pulpit as complete truth. Ie: they demanded that this church that has a very successful Christian school preach that "homeschool is the only way to educate a child." 😳🙄🙃 We are a homeschooling fam and we love it, but we firmly disagree w/ many IBLP teachings. And that's one of them. TY for sharing. We love hearing about other's faith journeys for sure. Keep up your great work. What a blessing. 🤗💕

[@beckyklepper315]

The discernment from the Lord that you had about the man at your previous church is a true gift! You 100% caught him grooming your family so he could get close to your children! I'm SO INCREDIBLY GRATEFUL you stood up for your family. A person will groom an entire entire family to get close to the children. What the IFB did is exactly what happens in many churches and even schools. Thanks for your testimony. ❤

[@AboveAllisLove]

The homeschooling part and the infiltration of government part definitely bothered me too. Thanks for sharing your story

[@mamabeer717]

I grew up in Calvary Chapel and my take on it is, it’s all about Jesus and his love. Every movement has its legalism and context towards the Word. ❤❤

[@nohorasims656]

Every church has good and bad in it.

[@marshahollings]

I have a friend who was part of The Plymouth Brethren. She was expected to attend church almost every night. She did not celebrate Christmas growing up. In the early to mid 70s, her church group discouraged women wearing slacks.

[@lilafeldman8630]

I have not heard of the Plymouth brethren however I can only imagine how dour they must have been!

[@mombythesea2426]

For some reason i read that as "discouraged women from wearing socks" and i was super confused

[@dianawardrip5171]

A cult, no other name for it.

[@altogetherextraordinary6846]

We started at Lighthouse in 2004. We were there at the same time. I was in the choir and nursery ministry, even became the Sunday night nursery supervisor before moving back to our home state after my husband got out of the military in 2007. We weren't there for very long, such is the life of a military family. My now brother-in-law was also a big part of the bus ministry. You probably knew him. I know it takes a lot to speak out on the dark side of churches, especially legalistic ones, so I admire your speaking up. I'm just so glad that you didn't cast Pastor D.F. in a bad light. Him and his family were such a blessing to us when we were there. Such a kind, loving, godly man...the real deal. I loved the choir and orchestra ministries during those early 2000s years. Beautiful and phenomenal programs! In later years, we would come back to visit for Leadership Conference...it's been many years since we've been there, though. I still have lifelong friendships with several of the ladies and families that we met at Lighthouse. We are no longer part of an IFB church, because I couldn't take the control and legalism any more. It took longer for my husband to see it, but by the grace of God, he finally did! I was told I couldn't do music and children's ministries because we weren't faithful enough. We lived 45 minutes from the church we were attending here, and had a 4 year old and 1 year old at the time. We didn't want to be at church and getting home after 9:30 p.m. every Wednesday and still have to get tired babies up for preschool and grandmas house the next day before going to work. We tried. It was miserable. Making sure my children got enough sleep made me "not faithful" to the church and unqualified to serve and use my gifts and talents in church. It broke my heart and we eventually left that brand of church for good. Lots of good things, but too many not good things, unfortunately. I agree with you that too much sin is swept under the rug in fundamentalism, but I don't think it's fair to say that David Gibbs is kind of a back pocket lawyer to the IFB pastor network. He does much, much more, for all Bible believing Christians who reach out to him and his team, not just Babtists, and I do believe that he fights for the right things. I'm sure he doesn't always get things 100% right, he is human, but I've always had the utmost respect for what he does and the fires him and his team are willing to walk into. His storytelling and preaching is unmatched by any other speaker I've ever listened to, that is a fact. I'm thankful you listened to your gut instincts with that creepy man and your own children. You are so right, slapping the word "christian" doesn't make it safe, or right, or good. Everyone must discern and listen to that gut instinct. It's a very small world that your videos should randomly popup in my KZbin algorithm. 😊

[@ejc5480]

Ive never understood branding any genre of music as sinful. Music is a universal mode of communication. It breaks barriers, and envokes change in societies for the better. Heavy metal spoke to the disenfranchisement felt by those people in that community, Rap and Hip Hop communicates the disenfranchisement felt by those people in that community. All deserving of being heard, all discussing social issues perpetuated, at least in part, in the name of god by mere men. We all must listen to one another.

[@catrice7126]

I admire you for speaking up Good for you

[@lisafreda2873]

Always go with your instincts Mama❤

[@carolwhisenhunt7504]

God gives us the Holy Spirit to throw up red flags when sin is near. It is all about a walk with the Lord. A relationship with Jesus. Spending time with Him, learning , letting Him lead us along in that walk. You are correct in how you reacted. It doesn't matter about religion. It's all about that relationship with God. I'm sorry you had to go through that but God was watching over you. You learned from it. I'm very proud of you. Ty for sharing.

[@Pizzapasta123]

I truly love videos in this kind of format where you are telling us about something. I am very interested always in the ways how different families deal with finances. Would you maybe consider videos on you financial planning and budgeting? Thank you!

[@Candyland420]

I think this is the last video of you just talking to the camera that I've seen. I just wanted to tell you that I have really enjoyed all of these....it's been nice getting to know you. :)

[@TheHappyCaravan]

❤️🙏

[@MeredithAnsel]

Omg I love you! What an amazing woman and mom

[@allymichael1609]

Thank you for sharing. You’re doing a great job Mama.

[@nickywal]

This just came up in my recommended and I'm pretty sure we would disagree on a lot of things, but you did such a brave thing in posting this. In my opinion, the loudest criticism of something should be the believers. Especially where children are involved, the protection of minors should be everyone's priority. Its scary just how many churches protect predators in the name of not bringing shame to the church. The fact that there's a law society at all, just to protect pastors from allegations of sexual assault, says a lot about how common it is

[@asianangel5400]

I grew up in the IFB church, went to Hyles, and served in ministry with my husband a few years ago. Recently, within the last few years, our eyes have been open to many terrible things about the lack of transparency and shuffling criminals from one church to another in the ifb chuech. Although my husband and I hold strong to biblical principles and doctrine, we do not hold on to the insane methods and cover-ups that have been going on all these years. Its heart breaking and a terrible representation of what Christ would teach. I thank you for your testimony, and I pray for your family as you bring God glory through music. I've watched many videos that you posted, and I enjoy them thoroughly. My husband and I have had to say goodbye to 39 years of IFB church influence and power, but in the end, we know we did the right thing. One must always stand up for the victim, never the criminal. Especially our precious children.

[@nohorasims656]

Yes thats great you made that choice its the cross we were called to bare not a religion

[@mrs.p6128]

Oh my gosh! He’s now in Spring, Tx! Found him on Facebook! I have family/friends in Tx. Will be warning them!!!

[@tribalwoman138]

Wow. I’m glad you listened to your intuition. I didn’t grow up with any religion at all, no church or anything, it never changed. I’ve always been happy having no religion in my life. Your family is very special, talented and just plain nice. I think you all are just so cool. I totally enjoy watching your channel. 68 years ago I started taking piano lessons. And I continued into adulthood. I played in concerts and all of that. Now I play the mandolin, guitar, hammered dulcimer, ukulele and psaltery. Music is just in my family dna I guess. Well anyway I’m glad that you got over the depression. ❤

[@yvonnestyhr8308]

It's good that the documentary has explained Fundamentalist Baptists to us all. The rules & regulations, dress codes, etc.,

[@barfrodgers1202]

This is not a problem in most IFB churches. I'm not saying it didn't happen but it's not all IFB churches. This is like me making a video titled "Why I don't trust Samoans" and talk about how one samoan guy stole my bike.

[@BethanyBarnes-r8l]

Thank you for sharing your families story! I am a part of Suzuki Strings with Shirley Stafford and I can attest she is amazing! Have you ever checked out any presbyterian churches? They are reformed and do hymns and it seems like they align with your values. My family goes to New Life Presbyterian church in La Mesa if you wanted to listen to some sermons!

[@CatherineRintamaki]

Amber, you are truly beautiful inside and out. Protecting yourself and family is what we all do. You have such a lovely family, I wish a happy safe life for you all. Catherine(Toronto).

[@margaretf5322]

You are right. One man should never run a church alone. I will never go to a church again that doesn't have an elder board.

[@jgrib6102]

The weird zombie look… lol. I love your reaction to your husband’s church comments. My husband and I have had situations where we had to catch each other. Woe to the church that forbids this.

[@instantkarma2514]

I have been wondering if you watched the documentary and was glad to hear your reaction. I recalled you saying you attended an IFB church in the past. Thank you for this!

[@oliviagraham9798]

I am a part of an IFB church. After visiting over 10 local IFB churches we decided that we would rather drive an hour to the church we attend. There are very few IFB churches that take a hard stance towards abuse (of any kind), also that are accepting of all people. I was blessed to find one of them and thank God! Thanks for sharing your experience as it helps those inside & outside of the churches be vigilant.

[@TheHappyCaravan]

Yes! Very hard to find! ❤️

[@BarbaraMoitoso]

I hear you about church guilt participation they put on us and trying to raise your children, I suffered with that to the point of almost breaking down😥

[@sandysaurus1010]

Glad you trusted your gut and protected your kids from him. Thank you for sharing!!

[@jessiruu]

Thank you for sharing, everyone needs to know. I never thought about this happening, it’s eye opening. 😦