Escaping a Pseudo-Christian Polygamous Cult (w/ Naomi Wright)

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  • Опубликовано: 1 апр 2024
  • Naomi Wright is the daughter of a pseudo-Christian cult leader. She was raised, yet hidden, within mainstream culture and public school education, where no one knew or the few with a sense of something, stayed silent. Now she holds a Master's of Science in Social Work from the University at Buffalo and is a licensed mental health professional in the state of Colorado. She also holds a Master of Arts in Christian Studies from Denver Seminary. Her areas of speciality include grief and loss, spiritual abuse, including cult abuse, as well as biblical and theological studies.
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Комментарии • 499

  • @AmishToChristian
    @AmishToChristian 2 месяца назад +563

    This was so interesting! I grew up in the Amish religion and have found so many similarities comparing it to other religions. I recently left the amish community, my parents refuse to see me anymore. I am a follower of Jesus now and He is worth so much more than anything!

    • @sherlyr.
      @sherlyr. 2 месяца назад +11

      But the Amish say they follow Jesus too.
      I purchase from an Amish farm, and they say follow Jesus.
      What makes that untrue?

    • @natalijaasbjornsen8827
      @natalijaasbjornsen8827 2 месяца назад +15

      I am Amish Mennonite. We drive cars. There are many Amish groups and they all are different. In Holmes County Ohio many Amish are born again and serve the Lord. We do events together with Old Order Amish. Just like in the Protestant church some people are not born again, so is in Amish churches. They are "old faith". Mennonites bare more evangelistic, but still hold onto principals of Early church. I have some Amish friends. They are definitely born again. But we also have very Conservative Amish( Schwarzentruber group). Those are very strict Amish and they are not Evangelistic. They have quite strict rules( for example , no orange color vest when hunting, no lights on the buggy etc.). They are close group and they don't intermarry with other Amish groups . This way they are trying to preserve the old way of life.

    • @lookslikeiwin
      @lookslikeiwin 2 месяца назад +11

      Welcome to the true gospel! I live in Missouri so we sometimes see the Amish around, but I've noticed the women never seem friendly, and it struck me recently that it's not very Christlike to be so closed off from other people, especially fellow Christians. I'm sure there are friendly Amish people but the culture is sort of closed off which makes it difficult to really share the gospel or the joy of Christ with other people. I'm sorry about your parents, but hopefully they know Jesus or will know Jesus and see you again with Him!

    • @thewildqueen4976
      @thewildqueen4976 2 месяца назад +10

      It seems it varies from each Amish congregation.

    • @user-nz7cu5qg1e
      @user-nz7cu5qg1e 2 месяца назад

      Welcome 🙏 to your Family 👪 in Jesus Christ 🙏 I'm so sorry your mom and dad did that to you, I know it cuts to the bone - I have bipolar and because of that my mother and father keep their distance. My sister got to move home twice and they just told me go to a shelter even though they know Jesus. Honestly I know there is a Spirit influencing their behavior - even inside the body of Christ Family 👪 I always thought a parents love was unconditional But I seem to be wrong about that - 💔 - But my saving Grace is Jesus Christ who when I'm lonely and crying 😢 in my room comfort me.
      They Have this misconception of who I am because I divorced the father of my children. Today my children live in New Zealand 🇳🇿 with him. I divorced him twice I tried to reconcile our marriage but he never did change. During our first divorce he told me he would make sure I loose my children - He stole all the money in the divorce, he basically used my rightfully earned money in the divorce to move to New Zealand 🇳🇿.
      Reason I'm telling you this about the divorce is because my parents didn't know who he was when I was married to him and how judas came out in him during the divorce.
      When the Bible talks about in the End times your children will put parents to death in my heart that is what my children did. It was a hard life in my house I didn't have money and when they went to him on weekends he basically bought their love.
      God bless keep strong in Jesus Christ

  • @mrtwis7
    @mrtwis7 2 месяца назад +114

    I joined cult at 19yo…& I left when I was 39 yo…& now I’m 63yo… as soon as I left in 2000,I went to different churches & by God’s grace over the past 24 years,the Lord sent many godly men & women into my life to heal my ❤! Glory to God 🙏🏼

  • @sharonanderson3845
    @sharonanderson3845 2 месяца назад +62

    Thanks for sharing. I completely left The Message around age 29. Even though we left the church when I was 11, it was still my family belief and I wasn’t able to escape mentally until 29. Jesus has changed my life.

  • @tracydigiacomo6814
    @tracydigiacomo6814 28 дней назад +14

    It is such a blessing to hear a story of someone who "knew that God was real" and chose to search Him out rather than deconstruct.

  • @dianahe2814
    @dianahe2814 2 месяца назад +166

    The amount of abuse in pentecostal churches in Africa is insane. I have come out of that, and looking at how leaders are appointed and whether there are checks and balances in place is one of the things that I have learned to look for. I'm settling into a smaller Baptist type church and really focusing on building my faith again.

    • @HansenMoments
      @HansenMoments 2 месяца назад

      Please do not look at IFB or any fundamentalist Baptist denomination. They’re known for their spiritual abuse unfortunately.

    • @Khangel
      @Khangel 2 месяца назад +15

      It’s so sad that you experienced this. I work with Africans and there is a serious lack of teaching on what it means to be a Christian leader. It’s generally true everywhere in the world, but probably at its worst in Africa. Please don’t stop believing that the Holy Spirit continues to play and active and important part in the Christian life.

    • @howlinwulf
      @howlinwulf 2 месяца назад +9

      Christianity was in Africa long before Europe and America.
      I pray that the leaders there find the true live and closer relationship with Jesus.

    • @christinemiller1946
      @christinemiller1946 2 месяца назад +13

      I was raised pentecostal holiness, and I've never faced any types of abuse from any church or member thereof.
      I was actually more protected than ever.
      I'm so saddened to hear about this.

    • @alexandredacunha4224
      @alexandredacunha4224 2 месяца назад

      Sorry for you Naomy the Lor d will hell you if you rely and Sta s with Him. The Usa hostes and embranced mormons 🤮

  • @kristinkellerhardi1203
    @kristinkellerhardi1203 2 месяца назад +117

    She is really so eloquent; I enjoyed listening to her tell her story.

    • @_.Leo_.
      @_.Leo_. Месяц назад

      Are you expecting her to grunt and make animal noises or...?

    • @s.a.6082
      @s.a.6082 Месяц назад +1

      @@_.Leo_.so needlessly sassy lol it was just a compliment.

  • @steveeymann6374
    @steveeymann6374 2 месяца назад +119

    This is engaging on multiple levels. 1 because of the damage done to the people it effects and 2 because it gets associated with real Christianity even though it is wholly denounced and unbiblical. Praise God that you were able to see through the nonsense and still have faith in Jesus. I can't imagine how hard it is when a twisted ideology has turned your world upside down. Your faith is beautiful.

  • @humblejoy3564
    @humblejoy3564 2 месяца назад +58

    Naomi is amazing. I have had the privilege of working with her and her BeEmboldened staff. Love you guys! Thanks Sean for inviting this bright light on your show. I love how peacefully she speaks too 😍

  • @JFDJubileeRiver
    @JFDJubileeRiver 2 месяца назад +90

    Absolutely amazing story of God’s grace. May God use your story to save those who are bound by cults.

  • @maureenufkes2491
    @maureenufkes2491 2 месяца назад +67

    I can totally relate as I entered a cult as a young adult and was there for many years. It was a type of religious community run like a socialist commune.
    When I finally left with my husband, we went to a reformed church that taught the Bible exegetically.
    Leaving the cult was an extremely traumatic experience.
    I’m so thankful for my church that showed us the love of Christ and didn’t judge us or think we were crazy. They patiently taught us the scriptures and who Jesus really is.

    • @BrickbyBrick4U
      @BrickbyBrick4U 2 месяца назад +6

      Same. Entered one at 19, left at 39. Spend my entire young adult life there. Was a traumatic process to see the wrong (that I never expected) and eventually left. So thankful to be out of there!

    • @pellaxestorba4836
      @pellaxestorba4836 2 месяца назад

      ""...A type of socialist commune / religious cult...""
      cog?

  • @leahgenelittrell
    @leahgenelittrell 2 месяца назад +41

    Wow!!! Never heard of Sean, or Naomi, but this blew me away! I always tell unbelievers that creation and it’s beauty testify for God’s existence and His love and mercy and hearing Naomi say that from a young age she knew from seeing the maple tree, seeing the light shine through, smelling the lilac bushes, that there’s more to God…. Gave me chills! Praise Him!

  • @ryanbaker2013
    @ryanbaker2013 Месяц назад +15

    I’m always impressed by the questions Sean asks. And he’s always so gentle a person to talk to. SUCH a good interviewer.

  • @sherryhudson9075
    @sherryhudson9075 2 месяца назад +36

    I too was raised in a cult and didn’t get out until I was a senior citizen. It is so freeing, yet so difficult to constantly question what I had always been taught. It is hard, no doubt. But I now have compassion for those who are so self righteous ,yet, are so deceived.

    • @user-ym3xf6xp4c
      @user-ym3xf6xp4c 2 месяца назад +1

      Yes. They're trapped in a mindset not of god.s making.
      There's a lot to be said for reading the gospels yourself and trying to have a direct dialogue with the trinity. Via prayer. I avoid church gatherings but often sit in one and pray and light a candle.

  • @aquilafisk654
    @aquilafisk654 2 месяца назад +38

    I grew up in a cult my Dad followed this guy, William B. We joined a group they had all things in common. There was wife swapping. There where so called prophet's, etc. lots of abuse. I am 63 years old. I left at the age of 17. I have spent years trying to get emotionally healed. I grieve for these people who have been through this trauma. ❤

    • @user-ym3xf6xp4c
      @user-ym3xf6xp4c 2 месяца назад

      It's ironical ro me that Jesus had a message of setting minds free. He was redrawn to genuine Christian behaviour irregardless of worldly belief. Yet organised religion has on the whole done the opposite.
      Brainwashing.

    • @sanukajideshar7872
      @sanukajideshar7872 День назад

      Please any more information about wmb

  • @Eyemredeemed
    @Eyemredeemed 2 месяца назад +28

    BeEmboldened has helped me.
    I grew up as a Jehovahs Witness , we were shunned by the congregation including our own relatives.

    • @maryparker3683
      @maryparker3683 Месяц назад +4

      Yes, I have been shunned for 40 years. So sad for them and me.

    • @AmyC37217
      @AmyC37217 15 дней назад

      I've never understood the draw of JW. If only 144,000 get to see Jehova, then what's the point for the rest of the millions?

  • @s.v.2796
    @s.v.2796 2 месяца назад +32

    I grew up in a culturally Mexican American family. As such we were conscious of the fact that all men die. My parents found the Lord when I was a teen. So when my dad died I missed him but was comforted as I knew he went with the Lord. I cannot imagine how berefit this young woman must have been while dealing with the deaths of her parents. Praise God who constantly offers, and delivers, salvation.

    • @lizf1353
      @lizf1353 Месяц назад

      Not sure this is a good enough justification to stay in a toxic culture. That you like comfort of the fantasy that has been presented to you is not a particularly good reason to continue practices that harm some.

  • @user-yr4yh2sx7g
    @user-yr4yh2sx7g 2 месяца назад +56

    My situation is definitely different but when you said you'd be on the bus trying to see if your dad's car was there I felt that. My step dad was a long distance trucker and I rarely knew when he'd be home. Whenever I'd come home and saw his work boots in the entrance it was instant dread

  • @rebeccahayhurst442
    @rebeccahayhurst442 2 месяца назад +36

    This is such a powerful and moving conversation. I loved what Naomi said -“ Let’s be the corrective experience. “ I think another sign of a safe church is, “ Tell me your story” without correcting or telling a person that they aren’t trusting God or having a lack of faith for expressing honest emotions which might be negative. God meets us where we are at and then transforms and heals us with his love.

    • @iw9338
      @iw9338 2 месяца назад +2

      Amen😅🙏

  • @beckyb9078
    @beckyb9078 2 месяца назад +33

    With regards to the maple tree and the lilacs… I think the very rocks were crying out for you. You are lovely. Thank you for sharing your story.

    • @howlinwulf
      @howlinwulf 2 месяца назад

      Hey scientists have found that plants actually scream when cut or broken and try to warn their neighbors.
      It was also found that the smell of fresh cut grass is a byproduct of those screams and Blood of the plant healing itself like our Blood scabs over
      Just a fun fact!

  • @Weissguys6
    @Weissguys6 2 месяца назад +65

    Leaving The Message is a great channel for more information and research, not only into William Branham, but the entire movement that has deep roots into the NAR/hyper-charismatic/Pentecostal concern. Tons of scholarly research.
    Thank you so much for sharing Naomi’s testimony. Praise God for her beautiful testimony. 🙏❤️

    • @Packhorse-bh8qn
      @Packhorse-bh8qn 2 месяца назад +5

      Yes, that is an excellent resource. May many be delivered from that cesspool!

    • @ryanehlis426
      @ryanehlis426 2 месяца назад +3

      There is nothing wrong with the Holy Spirit as that is God. Take Bethel church and BSSM for example, that is an excellent church and ministry school. Yes William Brenham went off the rails later in his ministry but it’s not fare to judge others based on this long diseased ministers life.

    • @Packhorse-bh8qn
      @Packhorse-bh8qn 2 месяца назад +16

      @@ryanehlis426 "There is nothing wrong with the Holy Spirit "
      This is why you are a charismatic. You cannot think.
      Other than atheists, there is literally NOBODY in the world who is saying that there is something wrong with the Holy Spirit.
      The question is, is what these people believe about the Holy Spirit the truth, or is it a Satanic lie?
      Branham didn't "go off the rails". He was a two-bit con artist who suckered a lot of Biblically illiterate people, just like Copeland and Hinn and the rest of them.

    • @markdonnaabbott3977
      @markdonnaabbott3977 2 месяца назад +6

      ​@@ryanehlis426 I pray you seek God in His word and on your face and ask Him for truth. As those two churches you mentioned are not the Holy Spirit in operation. There is more to the Holy Spirit than what they are doing and saying in His name.

    • @user-ym3xf6xp4c
      @user-ym3xf6xp4c 2 месяца назад

      Alpha christianity uses a Bible called the message and is run on step by step group transformation experiences. They revere Billy Grahame. Is this related to this message group. I'm interested.

  • @whatthefifty
    @whatthefifty 2 месяца назад +17

    This was a very interesting listen for me. I left the Mormon church at age 27, and although we grew up in different religions, the parallels between our experiences is unnerving. So much of what she shared resonated profoundly with me.

  • @jacobgingerhoffman7816
    @jacobgingerhoffman7816 2 месяца назад +16

    Wow! Amazing story. She is a testimony to the grace of God that a person who was so abused could become the person she is.

  • @gabriellawebber548
    @gabriellawebber548 2 месяца назад +13

    Thank you Naomi. I think every organization has the potential to abuse their power and use doctrinal beliefs to manipulate people. Thank you for taking a stand for truth and righteousness.

  • @michellehopperdietzel4154
    @michellehopperdietzel4154 Месяц назад +4

    So good! Thanks Sean for inviting Naomi on your show. This could help so many people.

  • @rnbham39
    @rnbham39 3 месяца назад +27

    Thank you Sean!!! Eye opening as per usual. Prayers for all those in cults...

  • @knan75
    @knan75 2 месяца назад +30

    What a thought provoking interview! I was impressed with Naomi’s intelligence and profound subjective reasoning. Wow!

    • @markdonnaabbott3977
      @markdonnaabbott3977 2 месяца назад +4

      If you go to her channel and check out her interview with
      Dr. G wow just out standing

    • @user-ym3xf6xp4c
      @user-ym3xf6xp4c 2 месяца назад +1

      Reiki is black dark I agree with naomi there. God responds to our heartfelt prayers. I talk to Jesus. My anxiety completely vanished when I had the moment of peace you speak of. I say what is there to fear if God is by my side and Jesus has my back. No other person can give me my direct relationship. No third parties. I pray to God and Jesus to guide my days.
      Reiki people are often in occult new age practices. Very bad.

  • @conniepharr7426
    @conniepharr7426 2 месяца назад +14

    This testimony was riveting. When you hear stories like Naomi’s it just reinforces God’s goodness and His faithfulness to hold onto us, even when we’re questioning. Just learning some of what a person coming from a cult experience deals with is heartbreaking. God has truly had His hand on this young woman and is using her and many like her to help others, to be willing to open up about truly horrific situations in order to help people who are struggling to rebuild their lives is absolutely beautiful. God bless

  • @MyCupOfTea101
    @MyCupOfTea101 2 месяца назад +17

    Definitely sharing this channel/ Naomi's website with my in-laws who have gone through church hurt in hopes that it brings them back into healthy church community.

  • @sibylmoore5484
    @sibylmoore5484 2 месяца назад +11

    I KNEW this was a Branhamite cult when she started talking. It is a cult straight up! And, this young lady getting out of it that is a miracle within itself!!

  • @lindseymedenwaldt3805
    @lindseymedenwaldt3805 2 месяца назад +16

    So proud to know Naomi and all that she's doing because of her experiences.

    • @SeanMcDowell
      @SeanMcDowell  2 месяца назад +1

      That’s awesome you know her. Her work is so vital!

    • @lindseymedenwaldt3805
      @lindseymedenwaldt3805 2 месяца назад +1

      @@SeanMcDowell We went to seminary together!

    • @hhstark8663
      @hhstark8663 2 месяца назад +2

      Wow! I am so excited!!! This is the same Lindsey from _Mama Bear Apologetics_ !!! :)

    • @lindseymedenwaldt3805
      @lindseymedenwaldt3805 2 месяца назад

      @@hhstark8663 Aw, thank you for your kindness. :)

  • @nksupreme1
    @nksupreme1 2 месяца назад +21

    Very enlightening conversation. As believer, we should not play down any kind of abuse. It is important to show love and empathy, and be bold about sharing the truth of the gospel.
    A side note: "Africa" is not a country, please. There are 54 countries in the continent of Africa, each different and unique in its own way. It's important to get the facts right.
    Thanks, God bless.

    • @trilithon108
      @trilithon108 2 месяца назад

      The Africans commenting know that.😅

    • @shellyscholz1256
      @shellyscholz1256 29 дней назад +1

      That conversation reminds me of where I live in the majority of the state of New York where Americans think that the five counties of NYC are the entire state ignoring the other 57 counties. I was an exchange student and the first question was “Aren’t you scared of getting mugged?” to which I asked, “By who? The cows?”🤣

    • @tinasam9996
      @tinasam9996 24 дня назад

      Didn't know that about Africa.

  • @boomboombelle
    @boomboombelle Месяц назад +3

    Wow, so well spoken. I loved hearing her story and wisdom and learned a lot from this - thank you both!!

  • @grooveeguy
    @grooveeguy 2 месяца назад +13

    I am so sorry to hear about these stories. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is so different than how cult leaders use Jesus' teachings to justify their actions.

  • @taniairivera453
    @taniairivera453 2 месяца назад +6

    Currently struggling . I was involved in a sociological cult for 7 years 3 years ago . It’s a daily struggle and have found it difficult to find a church that doesn’t feel cultish but that’s not “motivational either “ thank you both for this video , the aspect of finding a good church and deconstructing is the hardest part of this process and found your words comforting

    • @lyndajones1389
      @lyndajones1389 2 месяца назад +2

      Thanks for sharing. I pray you find a good Biblical supportive church. God Bless. I was saved mentally and spiritually by joining a church that has lovely supportive, gentle people -Changed my life

    • @taniairivera453
      @taniairivera453 2 месяца назад +1

      @@lyndajones1389 Thank you for your words and prayers ,always welcomed and appreciated

    • @ednabyler7132
      @ednabyler7132 2 месяца назад +2

      May God's gentle hand be upon you, His grace go before you, and His love be as a blanket round about you!❤

  • @chavak3497
    @chavak3497 2 месяца назад +11

    She is so well spoken, articulate and I learned so much through listening. Thanks for this interview.

  • @pamelaetheredge2394
    @pamelaetheredge2394 2 месяца назад +9

    Fantastic interview. I love the way God had His hand on Naomi through all of this and how her eyes were open for truth. Amazing testimony.

  • @virginiadykstra9239
    @virginiadykstra9239 2 месяца назад +7

    There is such a kindness and graciousness that you have Naomi, thank you for that. You e been touched deeply in the negative, yet you present truly with the love of God. Very healing in itself b

  • @Suavemente_Enjoyer
    @Suavemente_Enjoyer 3 месяца назад +15

    These testimonies brighten my day! Thank you, and God bless!❤

  • @pamelarada9239
    @pamelarada9239 2 месяца назад +11

    The interview & her story are compellingly. I appreciate the respect shown by both of you. Thank you for the video.

  • @pamelaalphonso6292
    @pamelaalphonso6292 2 месяца назад +12

    You’re gifted Sean, God is using these podcasts beyond what you’ll ever know this side of heaven!🙏

  • @ciaracairns1778
    @ciaracairns1778 2 месяца назад +17

    So her pops was the ultimate Narcissist.

  • @africandaisy.3
    @africandaisy.3 2 месяца назад +8

    Thank you for doing this Dr. McDowell. You’ve asked some really good questions especially towards the end.
    God bless you.

  • @claudiaa.3268
    @claudiaa.3268 2 месяца назад +15

    Excellent! My husband and I have much spiritual abuse in our MK background, but, praise the Lord, we have come free. Your comments are right on.

  • @havasmama05
    @havasmama05 2 месяца назад +19

    Even though I was raised safely in the church and not in a cult, I connect with so much of Naomi's story. The first thing on my mind when starting this video was, "Did she stick with God?" I rejoice to hear that she has a true knowledge of the true and living God! I also want Truth to stand above everything, even my feelings. I pray that I can be of use in people's lives to direct them to The Truth!
    I have also been having to rewire my brain (neuroplasticity) due to my own life stresses, so I was excited to hear her talk about that as well.

    • @Habanero777
      @Habanero777 2 месяца назад

      What you don't seem to understand is that all religions are cults. Every goddamn one of them is a cult all of them have been made up and contrived to keep us divided and cause hate and war. If you truly understood God, you would not have any fucking thing to do with a religion.😢

  • @jmsimcic
    @jmsimcic 2 месяца назад +5

    Such a strong interview all around, and the end was the best part! God bless Naomi & her ministry!

  • @tempatate4685
    @tempatate4685 Месяц назад +2

    Thank You Lord for Naomi Wright, who pursued You! AND who is allowing You to help others through how You helped her and showed her Your beauty and loving character!

  • @HansenMoments
    @HansenMoments 2 месяца назад +5

    My best friend is in the middle of going through exposing spiritual abuse. Her “pastor” of an IFB church has a history of preying on women who have had a difficult past and having inappropriate relationships with them. I thank God that He is exposing the darkness right now, more of which we will see as the Day of the Lord draws nearer. He is purifying His bride right now. I think people would be surprised how often this is actually happening at seemingly “normal” churches.
    I enjoyed this conversation and Naomi’s demeanor. Going to look into her resources to share with my bestie on her journey to healing.

  • @lgrantnelson2863
    @lgrantnelson2863 Месяц назад +1

    Thank you for sharing your experience.
    Even though my family went to good churches, I remember reading books to hide from my father. He demanded we be quiet and in general didn't communicate. My mother and I were somewhat close. When my father died she didn't want to have a service. When she died two weeks later my brothers and I were devastated. I can testify that even though the pain is gone I I'm still not over it. I'll see something my mother would like and I'll turn around and she's not there.
    It's great to hear you're healing and helping others. My mother reached out to the community in different ways. We didn't know the outreach she had until her service when hundreds of people showed up.
    May God richly bless you.

  • @drummersagainstitk
    @drummersagainstitk 2 месяца назад +5

    Your best show ever Sean. I've seen many abusive testimonials but this one is deep because Naomi is articulate to detail. She'll be a great therapist..

  • @mrtwis7
    @mrtwis7 2 месяца назад +3

    Amazing testimony!❤ thank you for sharing this Naomi 😃

  • @nildameers3772
    @nildameers3772 2 месяца назад +12

    Sean your looking healthy been praying for you. Thank you for what you provide through your channel.
    I too have been through spiritual leadership abuse.

    • @SeanMcDowell
      @SeanMcDowell  2 месяца назад +9

      So sorry you went through that.
      I’m feeling 💯 by the way!

    • @GirlPaintsArt
      @GirlPaintsArt 2 месяца назад +2

      Same here and it ultimately ended my marriage. It’s a long story, but that church went under, thankfully. A lot of lives were hurt by the leadership in that church. They followed the teachings of Kenneth Haggin, Kenneth Copeland and the like, just to give you an indication of what it was like. I didn’t want to go there in the beginning, but my husband insisted and I “submitted”. We left the church after being shunned when our fourth child was born with a disability. Talk about being scarred.😢 It was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever gone through, let alone the fact that even my own husband couldn’t even come to terms with having a child with a disability.

    • @mattleitner5194
      @mattleitner5194 2 месяца назад +2

      @@GirlPaintsArt😢. Trusting you are finding the love of Jesus and community in the body of Christ.

    • @GirlPaintsArt
      @GirlPaintsArt 2 месяца назад +2

      @@mattleitner5194 currently searching for a new church. I’m not giving up on the body of Christ and it’s believers and I’m never giving up in the love of our Savior, Jesus.🤗🥰

  • @tootsiea4064
    @tootsiea4064 2 месяца назад +6

    WoW! This was so interesting. My heart aches for this young lady but it rejoices in the fact that her journey lead her to Christ.
    It’s heartbreaking when folks misuse the Bible to make their way of life okay.
    Lord, please guide every single person who has come from a situation like this to gently guide them back to you. 💕

  • @yvonnekneeshaw2784
    @yvonnekneeshaw2784 2 месяца назад +5

    Very encouraged by the good questions and guests answers…seek the truth & be set free 🇨🇦 ❤

  • @winniecash1654
    @winniecash1654 2 месяца назад +6

    Glad she got out. Sorry for the abuse. What a wonderful ministry. ❤ Hallelujah!!

  • @cordelia-xd5xf
    @cordelia-xd5xf 2 месяца назад +9

    I grew up in a polygamist religion. It was hell living with my abusive ex, hell trying to get out, and more hell with him lying and manipulating the legal system against me and dragging my children back in full time. There is abuse with the children in every way and no one will listen. My ex is a predator, sleeping with another girl who is 20 years younger than him, all under the guise of "just living my religion." There has been inappropriate sexual behavior towards the children as well. What better way for a predator to hide than one who can live polygamy and have many children using them too for his sick pleasures. There are some things worse than death -- in knowing your children are in an abusive home full time and nothing you can do to stop it.
    I can relate to everything this woman has said. Religious/spiritual abuse is a very real thing where you are guilt tripped into forgiving and loving and tolerating abusers. Just be sweet and don't be jealous or selfish and welcome other women into a sexual relationship with your husband. It's worse than adultery and cheating anywhere else where a man usually hides his other relationship. In polygamy, especially when there is abuse, you are forced to watch their flaunted relationship, forced to have them in your home, forced to watch your children taken, and forced to LIKE it. If you don't like it or go along with it -- you pay.

    • @PandaMom2Many
      @PandaMom2Many 2 месяца назад +3

      😢

    • @user-ym3xf6xp4c
      @user-ym3xf6xp4c 2 месяца назад

      Polygamy is men abusing religion to get sexual gratification met.
      I'm sorry you had this to live with. At least you saw the light.
      My ex got hooked up with a cult person 20 yrs younger. Mid life crisis. Ended our marriage. His business. His sanity for a while. New age cult. It passes. I Hooe your children and you find peace.

    • @tamragoodrich6067
      @tamragoodrich6067 2 месяца назад

      Seriously disturbing information!!

    • @cordelia-xd5xf
      @cordelia-xd5xf 2 месяца назад +2

      @@tamragoodrich6067 it is disturbing because things like this really do happen. People would rather close their eyes and believe evil doesn't exist, and put their head in the sand and pretend they don't see it. But the real victims and survivors have no choice but to take one painful breath and day at a time.

  • @amandalynne9314
    @amandalynne9314 2 месяца назад +3

    WOW!!!!❤ What an amazing interview!!! Tears constantly through. Thank you guys!!!

  • @pamelaalphonso6292
    @pamelaalphonso6292 2 месяца назад +10

    Amazing story Naomi, praise the Lord for all He's doing in and through you. xo Sean - keep up the great interviews brother, blessings to you and yours. xo

  • @susanwilson6505
    @susanwilson6505 2 месяца назад +1

    The honesty in this testimony is such a blessing and informative and engaging. I grew up as a worldly Catholic. Different but similar. I had a very strict father who took away joy and the excitement of learning and really didn’t want to be bothered with a real relationship with us. I felt as a girl I was unimportant and never listened to. It was physical abuse at times but it all broke my heart and hurt me deeply.

  • @lesliewells-ig5dl
    @lesliewells-ig5dl 11 дней назад +1

    Thanks so much for doing this Sean and Naomi, I really admire your strength and courage and what you are doing, Naomi!!!

  • @artkent
    @artkent 2 месяца назад +1

    This is such a good interview. Josh is asking all the questions we want to know about just as we wonder and she absolutely couldn’t be more articulate. She is an inspired communicator. This is absolutely fascinating. Thank you.

  • @reason4being868
    @reason4being868 2 месяца назад +1

    Thank you so much for this!

  • @EviesAnnee
    @EviesAnnee 2 месяца назад +2

    Naomi, you are brave, beautiful and genuine. What a tremendous testimony. As the founder of a prayer ministry focused on ministering to the lost and deceived in both mainstream and fundamental LDS, I have seen firsthand how damaging polygamy is for everyone involved. Thank you for sharing your journey and offering hope to others in similar situations to yours. God bless you and your ministry! ❣

  • @revsamsonendigeri1976
    @revsamsonendigeri1976 2 месяца назад +1

    Thanks SeanMacdell and Noami Bright ,Nay God Bless your ministry for His Glory.Amen.

  • @gabimartens799
    @gabimartens799 2 месяца назад +2

    Amazing guest!!!

  • @fatimaeid7456
    @fatimaeid7456 2 месяца назад +1

    WOW! Thank you for sharing!

  • @user-rh5vx2hr7o
    @user-rh5vx2hr7o 2 месяца назад +3

    I had a wonderful pastor growing up. I recall a sermon he taught when I was a child where he said "I am just a man. I can make mistakes. It's your responsibility to go home and validate anything I say today and with your bilbe." I have always remembered those words and I always validate what preachers/teaches/ speakers of any kind say with the Bible. Lots of scary self serving flakes out there folks. Check the word.

  • @Ro19303
    @Ro19303 Месяц назад +1

    That was great! She is so strong and and yet speaks so softly with so much love ❤ God bless you

  • @patriciabenavente8147
    @patriciabenavente8147 2 месяца назад +9

    I was also in a church were the pastor was a narcissist. We had all the characteristics of a cult. Now she has services in Hope Chapel, Ontario, California. She is the pastor at the Spanish church. I've warned the American pastor there but I don't know if they have heed my words of caution. I don't want anybody to go through the same indoctrination, fear, humiliation, intimidation, gaslighting, isolation, shame and rejection I've been through. Her name is Maria Angeles Gomez and she says the Lord has told her she is the one through whom the worldwide awakening will come. She purports to be a five-fold ministry.

    • @natalijaasbjornsen8827
      @natalijaasbjornsen8827 2 месяца назад +2

      Have you not read the Ap. Paul's teaching that a woman is not supposed to teach in the church.?

    • @user-ym3xf6xp4c
      @user-ym3xf6xp4c 2 месяца назад

      Sounds like the same demon in other cult leaders is in her too...

    • @user-ym3xf6xp4c
      @user-ym3xf6xp4c 2 месяца назад

      Ie Kenneth copeland. Billy graeme.

  • @katiempojer
    @katiempojer Месяц назад +2

    This is fascinating!

  • @krisfreed2645
    @krisfreed2645 2 месяца назад +2

    Thank you for this. I know people who need to hear her story.

  • @lonajones899
    @lonajones899 2 месяца назад +2

    such a strong and compassionate, wise woman. I pray God blesses her and send people along her path to be healed! So powerful.

  • @marymary1877
    @marymary1877 2 месяца назад +2

    38:34 that little prayer she said outside the church just grabbed my heart. What a precious soul. God bless her.

  • @debbyfazfphotography
    @debbyfazfphotography 2 месяца назад +2

    WOW! Praise the Lord! This was a very powerful episode! ❤

  • @MassageDiaries
    @MassageDiaries 2 месяца назад +1

    Wow all my love girl. Ty interviewer for your patience ❤and compassion

  • @lcraver4797
    @lcraver4797 2 месяца назад +6

    This one in particular was extremely interesting. My parents met in an Assemblies of God seminary though Dad was American, Mom Canadian which after the doors closed on ministry for Dad (he wanted to be a military chaplain) we came to Canada. It was church twice on Sunday and during the week and being an academic sort ended up in all kinds of Bible studies. I arrived at university and discovered both IVCF and your father's early work at the same time with tons of effort in apologetics especially including Francis Schaeffer. I continued to grad school where I met my wife "CINO" (Christian in name only") and led her to Christ for real. 35 years later she died at home when I was in the next room and I've been drifting spiritually and know I need to find a new congregation (as my old one had disintegrated in the split over the Copeland / Hagen heresy) but am still dealing with "Oh Lord, where was your protection when milady needed you most?" I really appreciate Sean's work as it continues his father's work which I so valued in univesity but at this point desperately need a re-grounding. It's probably obvious that my closing line is "pray for me"

    • @PandaMom2Many
      @PandaMom2Many 2 месяца назад +1

      Lifting you up

    • @paullauby8814
      @paullauby8814 2 месяца назад

      Prayers for you. My heart breaks as I read your story. I pray that you will do what you know you should. God owes us no answers, but as you open your heart and become closer to Him, He may share with you a glimpse of His master plan. You could gain insight on His purpose for your wife's death or His purpose for your life beyond leading her HOME where she patiently waits for you to finish your journey. Finish well, sir, and God's Best to you!

  • @Reepicheep28
    @Reepicheep28 2 месяца назад +1

    Your healing and faith sing through and underneath your words, Naomi. I wish you didn't have to be born into the family you were or to endure what you did. Thank you for your openness and the work you did to get to where you are today.
    Your words about knowing there was "something more" even from a young age, without knowing how or why other than that the world was beautiful, stopped me in my tracks. Thank you for giving voice to that. God made himself known to me like that too. I've never been able to explain it.

  • @lyndigiorgio261
    @lyndigiorgio261 2 месяца назад +1

    Sean, great show what a blessing to be able to listen to Naomi. She is incredibly gifted. Obviously God has a lot in store for her future. May the Lord bless you and Naomi.

  • @aprilclark2302
    @aprilclark2302 Месяц назад +1

    So many things in her story I could relate to. God bless her for sharing and for doing what she does.

  • @angiewoodward4166
    @angiewoodward4166 2 месяца назад +2

    Love your content Sean!!!

  • @annettemartin4287
    @annettemartin4287 Месяц назад +1

    It took me two tries to listen to this all the way through. It helped me.

  • @TheGenoveva7
    @TheGenoveva7 2 месяца назад +1

    Thank you for sharing your story. I admire everything about you. God bless.

  • @ponyjr54
    @ponyjr54 Месяц назад +1

    Great podcast thank you.

  • @alinalepadatuvirdee6201
    @alinalepadatuvirdee6201 2 месяца назад +17

    We call everything you described as religious cult and spiritual abuse, however I would like to say that the same characteristics apply to so many atheistic families where they push their belief that God does not exist on every one around them and they abuse their families in such horrendous ways. You can't see this as obvious in the western countries due to the idea of freedom of speech and belief however if you look at the communist countries as an example, I can't see much difference. I grew up in a communist country and the level of abuse towards children especially, is on a different level. We used to be beaten with a rubber hose from the washing machine. The same as you, I had no idea when it was coming and why. Sexual abuse, drunkenness, cheating and verbal abuse is rampant. Jesus Christ is so beautiful and so merciful and he made himself known to me and to my family and there is no therapy or any help from anyone else that would or could heal but HIM!

    • @007gracie
      @007gracie 2 месяца назад

      Oh my😢 I’m so sorry you had to endure that! So grateful you have Jesus 💗 He’s the only one who can really make it all bearable. Very insightful. Thx for sharing.

    • @ednabyler7132
      @ednabyler7132 2 месяца назад +1

      Thank you Jesus for bringing you out!!

    • @user-ym3xf6xp4c
      @user-ym3xf6xp4c 2 месяца назад

      Yes a cult can exist inside one family or a local group even. Anything that tells you what to think not how to think is a cult. Full stop.

  • @pamelabarone5868
    @pamelabarone5868 3 месяца назад +5

    This is deep. 🙏

  • @michaelamick8295
    @michaelamick8295 Месяц назад +1

    My older brother & his family are still a part of Bro Branums(Sp) Ministry in Southern Indiana, across from Louisville KY. We are 70+ ages so I & family became Antiocian Orthodox in late 1980"s & still there & my brothers family for the most part, are still involved with that penicostal group in other locations, WA, FL, Vancouver BC.,NC. TX.

  • @reason4being868
    @reason4being868 2 месяца назад +2

    I'm so crying right now because of Candle on the Water! I knew God was more than the contradictions my parents and their religion showed me and He was going to lead me out!

  • @mimhahn
    @mimhahn 11 дней назад +1

    Thank you so much for what you do. I have a feeling that many in prosperity gospel teaching churches are going to need help for spiritual abuse as well. 😪

  • @JesusLovesyou..1John3.6
    @JesusLovesyou..1John3.6 2 месяца назад +5

    Always align everything with the Word of God and Prayer 😊❤

    • @natalijaasbjornsen8827
      @natalijaasbjornsen8827 2 месяца назад +2

      Especially with the teaching of the New Testament. Polygamy is a thing of the past. Christ returned the original design of marriage.

    • @JesusLovesyou..1John3.6
      @JesusLovesyou..1John3.6 2 месяца назад

      @@natalijaasbjornsen8827 God always wanted marriage for one man with one woman and He never wanted divorce He always knows and wants what is best because He is the Best He is literally Perfect 😊❤️

  • @elizabethgraham1461
    @elizabethgraham1461 2 месяца назад +2

    That is a very good analogy ❤

  • @pianogal853
    @pianogal853 Месяц назад +1

    Great information!
    I've noticed a more heightened discernment of spousal abusive since I've had a few friends in that situation. Interestingly, these high control types put on a very polished front and so many outsiders don't see or believe the abused spouse/congregant.

  • @loveit23ish
    @loveit23ish 2 месяца назад +1

    Awesome 👏 ❤

  • @YesuAiNimen
    @YesuAiNimen 2 месяца назад +11

    Having one spouse and family is enough work as it is. I couldn't imagine. I'm not trying to be funny either.

  • @pamelabrown7772
    @pamelabrown7772 2 месяца назад +8

    You’ll never see a woman polygamist with 4 husbands SMH

    • @ryanehlis426
      @ryanehlis426 Месяц назад

      Yes because that would be Adultery and violates biblical patriarchy.

  • @olabashanda
    @olabashanda 2 месяца назад +6

    William Branham of Tucson, AZ is the main character that her dad’s group spun off from.

  • @Chickmamapalletfarm
    @Chickmamapalletfarm 2 месяца назад +1

    I am a wayward Catholic here. I have been witness to several sexual abuse scandals of children. I myself was never abused, but being from a small town, what impacted one person, impacted us all. It left wounds on/in me. When I was an adult, I got back into church again, and joined the choir, and got my babies baptized, ans all
    The things… then it happened all over again with the priest and the choir director. I really appreciate this interview. I too have continued to develop a relationship with god, but I don’t think I will ever be able to join a church again. 😞

  • @opalessence4818
    @opalessence4818 2 месяца назад +1

    Thanks, Naomi, for your articulate sharing.
    How did reading all those books 📚 affect your development and life choices?

  • @susandixson5830
    @susandixson5830 2 месяца назад +1

    Thank you so much…

  • @daveflanagan4213
    @daveflanagan4213 16 дней назад

    May 16; me! Wonderful chat. The worst about religion and the greatest story about the reach of the living Gods grace and mercy and salvation.

  • @RobertEustace
    @RobertEustace Месяц назад

    Aahhh... Biola University! I attended a Christian Art Conference there (June 1989) through my long term affiliation with the professional arts group: CIVA [Christians in the Visual Arts]... Here I met and befriended Prof of Fine Arts/ Artist (Barry Krammes - recently retired) + wife, Beth - We continue to be friends after all this time. Later, in (2005) I attended another CIVA Conference at Azusa Pacific University... Just stumbled up your site and very much enjoyed your podcast with Naomi! Will tune again soon!

  • @ImTheREALCandyLane
    @ImTheREALCandyLane Месяц назад

    She is relatable across the scope of abuse as well, not just Cult or Christian but general familial psychological abuses.. 🙏🏻 Health and Healing ❤️‍🩹