The Cult of Christianity

In this closing chapter of "The Cult of Christianity," we reflect on the journey that has brought us here. The failure of the cult of Christianity is not a matter of lacking faith, but of not stepping back to deconstruct the entire system. I am not ending this podcast because the debate is over, but because the conversation must continue beyond my voice. Through this podcast, we have refined our definitions, deconstructed and reconstructed ideas, and delved into complex topics. We've met incredible people, learned hard lessons, and pushed the boundaries of taboo subjects. We have been strong, vulnerable, brave, and kind. We kept love in our lives and pursued freedom; perhaps, we found it. As I bid farewell, remember: don't be a follower or a leader—be free. Live free of any cult that seeks to control, contain, or convert you. *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

Join John as he delves into eschatology's chilling and often sensational world. In this episode, he traces the evolution of apocalyptic rhetoric, from its roots in early Christian fear-mongering to its contemporary exploitation by politicians and infamous cults. Discover how these narratives have been manipulated to incite fear and control while examining the enduring impact of these doomsday prophecies on society. *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

In this thought-provoking episode, John shares his personal views on spirituality, explores the rich tapestry of historical spiritual beliefs, and exposes how the cult of Christianity fundamentally distorts true spiritual essence. Whether you're a seeker, skeptic, or simply curious, this show offers a perspective on what spirituality free from the distortions of organized religion can look like. *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

In this episode, John unravels the Trinity's role as a tool for manipulation among Christian cult leaders. He explores its historical evolution, inherent contradictions, and how it has been used to enforce authority and control. By examining the nonsense of this doctrine, John sheds light on the darker aspects of religious power dynamics. *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

In this episode, John takes listeners on a journey through his vivid childhood experiences, filled with confusion and terror, as he grapples with the haunting teachings of hell. He surveys the historical evolution of this concept, from ancient mythologies to modern-day depictions, revealing how religious authorities have used it to control and manipulate. John passionately argues that the belief in eternal punishment is both theologically problematic and psychologically abusive, especially when propagated by Christian cult leaders. Through personal anecdotes and thorough analysis, he exposes the detrimental effects of fear-based faith on mental health and emotional development.

John wanders through language's fascinating history, exploring its origins and evolution. He unravels the myth of the Tower of Babel and its implications on linguistic diversity, offering critical perspectives on this ancient story. Additionally, John uncovers the ways Christian cultists manipulate language to influence and control their followers, shedding light on the power of words in shaping human consciousness. *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

In this episode, John dives deep into the world of Christian apologetics, exposing it as a form of cultic rhetoric. Through carefully examining its historical roots, methodologies, and modern practices, John reveals how apologetics reinforces groupthink and suppresses dissent within Christianity. John takes the listener on a journey through the evolution of apologetics over the centuries, the persuasive techniques used by apologists, and real-world examples of its application in contemporary contexts. Whether you're a skeptic, a believer, or somewhere in between, this episode promises to offer a fresh perspective on an overlooked aspect of religious discourse. *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

John unravels the intricate history of Christian nationalism and its profound influence on modern society. He explores how Christian nationalism has evolved over centuries, becoming almost synonymous with evangelicalism in the United States. Delving into the origins of this powerful ideology, John traces its roots back to pivotal moments in history and explains how religious fervor and national identity have intertwined to shape political and social landscapes. He critically examines how the cult of Christianity can manipulate this ideology to seize control of a nation, revealing the tactics used to exploit faith and patriotism and the dangerous consequences that can follow. *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

In this episode, John provides a comprehensive yet concise survey of the entire Bible, exploring the content and themes of each book from Genesis to Revelation. He reveals how Christianity borrows language, rather than interprets these unreliable scriptures, challenging the legitimacy of its teachings. John also examines how modern pastors, aka cult leaders, manipulate the Bible as a tool of control to maintain authority over their congregations. John questions conventional beliefs and offers a deeper understanding of one of the world's most influential texts. *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

In this episode, John invites his bestie Lilly to discuss crucial topics that many struggle with but often find hard to talk about. Join them as they delve into the complexities of coping with religious trauma, navigating triggers, and dealing with deeply rooted fears from both childhood and adulthood. Lilly vulnerably shares her personal experiences and recent challenges, while also providing emotional validation to hard feelings after leaving the cult. Whether you're dealing with your own mental health issues or supporting someone who is, it's important to have resources. Both https://www.recoveringfromreligion.org/ and https://www.seculartherapy.org/ can be good places to start. If you want to follow Lilly, go to https://www.instagram.com/sweetwordswitch/ *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

John interviews Shannon Nuszen, a former evangelical missionary turned observant Jew, shedding light on the deceptive tactics employed by missionaries and the cultural disrespect inherent in their approach. Shannon's journey unveils the coercive nature of evangelical missionary culture and the predatory targeting of vulnerable communities Find out more about Shannon here: https://www.beyneynu.com/ *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

John and his journalist friend, Jamal Michel, have a thought-provoking discussion on combatting Islamophobia and confronting Christian extremism. Jamal shares insights on how 9/11 was exploited to perpetuate fear and discrimination against Muslim communities in the United States. Together, they examine the importance of addressing Christian extremism in politics. *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

John and Chris wander through the intricacies of friendship before, during, and after their Christian walk. Through candid conversations, they explore how their bond has endured doubt and deconstruction, offering insights on cultivating authentic connections in today's fast-paced world. *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

John hosts an engaging dialogue with Darren Slade, a history and comparative religion professor, President of the Global Center for Religious Research (GCRR.org), and Director of the North American Committee on Religious Trauma Research (NACRTR). In this episode, they tackle the complexities of financial incentives in academia, explore the contrasting approaches of critical and confessional scholars, and briefly engage in a spirited debate over whether "woke-ism" constitutes a cult (it does not!) Join them as they navigate the intricate intersections of academia, belief systems, and the cult of Christianity. *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

In this episode, John chats with Cynane about the surge of conspiracy theories and cult-like beliefs within white evangelicalism. They dissect the societal and psychological factors driving this phenomenon and explore why individuals, particularly Christians, are drawn to such ideas. From the allure of belonging to the quest for certainty in an uncertain world, they unravel the complex interplay of politics, cognitive biases, and manipulation. Learn more about her work at https://takingoffthetinfoilhat.com/ *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

John dives into the complex issue of homelessness with comedian and personal hero, Sarah J Ruthless. They unpack the countless societal factors at play. The conversation explores how the Christian approach to helping the homeless is ineffective and insulting. John and Sarah advocate for empathy and systemic change, focusing on solutions prioritizing people's well-being regardless of their ailments. This episode is perfect if you want to understand homelessness better from two folks who have experienced it, understand why homelessness is not an individual's fault, and discover how the cult of Christianity makes everything worse. You can learn more about Sarah here: http://www.sarahjruthless.com/ *** ⁠The Cult of Christianity⁠ ⁠John Verner⁠ ⁠Subscribe⁠ For More Content ⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads | Instagram⁠ | ⁠TikTok⁠

John Interviews Daniella about the Military, Cults, and Christianity: What's the connection? In this episode, John dives deep into the crossover between cults and military culture with Daniella. They explore the idea of the military as a breeding ground for religious extremism, how Christian nationalism influences military service, and the complex relationship between control, patriotism, and being willing to die for an ideology. *** The Cult of Christianity John Verner Subscribe For More Content ⁠Substack⁠ | Threads | InstagramTikTok

Hi there, friend! It's time for the season three finale of the podcast, and it's a 3hr sloppy and entertaining mess. First, Chris, Lilly, and John take a trip down memory lane, recapping, thanking, and praising the guests from this past season. The Cult of Christianity had some high-caliber and insightful friends this year and it's wonderful to reminisce. All of this is before talking nonsense, showing kitties, and playing some outtakes. But that's not all - the gang also plays a fun (for John) and competitive game of "Guess these Dungeons & Dragons Bible Characters." Indulge John's nerdiness. Next, the squad takes a stab at an exvangelical round of "Would you rather?" They hit some hot takes HARD, and realize every decision John makes is just for content. And finally, a lot of dramatic reading of some of the hilarious, befuddling, and zealous hate comments received from the cultists. Concluding with John's best attempt to make Lilly and Chris cringe to death. Thanks to you amazing listeners for another great season. Your support means a lot, and The Cult of Christianity wouldn't exist without you. This episode is a lighthearted and fun adventure, filled with plenty of laughs, drinks, and John's attempts to make Chris and Lilly crawl into a hole. So sit back, relax, pour a drink, and buckle up for the finale of another fantastic season! https://linktr.ee/thecultofchristianity Instagram: @thecultofchristianity + @sweetwordswitch Substack: johnverner.substack.com Website: thecultofchristianity.com

In this episode, John unpacks the confusion surrounding the term "love" and the ways in which it can be abused by manipulative groups. John shares his insights on the importance of making love a central mission in life, but with full autonomy, unlocking its transformative power in different relationships. Through his recaps of his personal experiences, poetry, and pontificating, John searches for the true meaning of love and how we can navigate its complexities to create a more loving world.

In this episode, John has an enlightening conversation with returning guest R Scott Okamoto on the crucial topic of diversity in both church and broader culture. In this episode, they delve into the challenges that Christians face in embracing diversity and the underlying reasons why it can be against evangelicals' self-interest. As they explore the complexities of diversity, they discuss the differences between a diversity of thought and diversity of traits, the challenges of promoting diversity in a capitalist society, and how a lack of diversity can reinforce the status quo. To buy Scott's book, or learn more about his podcast, go to https://www.rscottokamoto.com/