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Buy Nothing Christmas

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-11-25T21:11:27-08:00

Imagine for a moment that you are driving along a busy highway. Without warning, a vehicle a short distance in front of you spins out of control. Despite your best efforts, you and a number of other vehicles around you are involved in the resulting crash. Due to where you were in relation to the other vehicles, you survive the accident completely unhurt and with only minor damage to your vehicle. However as you overcome your shock and look around, you notice that one of the vehicles involved in the accident was a motorcycle. The motorcycle appears to have been caught between two large cars that were also involved in the crash. The motorcycle rider lies bleeding and unconscious several metres from the seriously damaged motorcycle. Read more... See also: Buy Nothing Christmas

Whose Ministry Is It?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-12-16T00:09:27-08:00

by Fred G. London We hear so much about being called to serve; the emphasis, the honor, the glory of being called to serve. Why by age fifty, most "in ministry" are just heading into their prime. After all, the past thirty years have been spent investing in this pursuit, and now, "I am being rewarded with the fruits of my labor, my faithfulness to the call." Read more...

The War Pastors

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-11-25T16:03:02-08:00

by Van Robison Many pastors in the world today support war as if they are following Jesus Christ by inciting their congregations to be war mongers. Proclaiming war, some pastors quote various Old Testament verses as if those verses apply to life on earth today (supposedly a fulfillment of prophesy). Most of those verses are taken out of context to their historic setting and are often twisted to fit modern day imaginations. All the verses quoted to "justify" modern day war are not found in the teachings of Jesus Christ, but the writings of Old Testament authors. Read more...

Does Churchianity Spit Upon Jesus Christ?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-12-02T00:00:06-08:00

by Van Robison Churches do not literally SPIT upon Jesus Christ, but in a symbolic sense, many do because they reject the teachings of Jesus Christ in favor of the traditions and customs of men. The world of churches is overrun with man-made institutionalism, much as the religious environment in the time of Christ. Matthew 23 is proof that traditions in the time of Christ are still extant today. Oddly, the religious church leaders today seem to be blind in many ways, and in need of healing. The Healer is Jesus Christ, who came to set the captives free. Read more...

Miracle and Healing Ministries

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-12-09T04:37:05-08:00

by Van Robison Do I believe in miracles? Yes! Do I believe in healing? Yes! That said, I also know that in the world of what is called "Christianity", there is and has been a lot of things proclaimed, for which there is no real proof, that such things ever happened. For a period of several years, during one stage of my life, I read many books about "healing", "miracles" and "supernatural" happenings. Read more...

Confessions of a Former Churchgoer

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-12-31T00:05:04-08:00

by Van Robison At one time I was a completely deceived churchgoer. I was caught in a web of deception as a young adult with no worldly understanding or experience. I was mesmerized by the church pastors and their speaking abilities to persuade their captives, that they were God's representatives on earth. I took the correspondence course (Worldwide Church of God/Ambassador College under Herbert W. Armstrong), which led me through the Old Testament teachings that they insisted were to be obeyed as the means to eternal life. Read more...

Called to Exploit or to Follow?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-11-16T22:49:07-08:00

by Fred G. London In Luke's account of the crucifixion, a profound exchange is recorded between Christ and the two thieves in the midst of their execution. It has been said, "Crisis reveals character," and so it was in this case. We shall see that in a sense, one thief chose to exploit, while the other chose to follow. One chose self-interest, while the other deferred to God's. One spoke out of the anguish of a broken body and soul, while the other spoke out of a broken and contrite spirit. Read more...

Mob Rule Mentality and the Church

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-11-16T22:42:40-08:00

by Fred G. London It has been documented that Hitler had a fascination with the occult. To win the masses over to blind, fanatical devotion to himself and Nazi ideology, he meshed occultism with Christianity, along with its terminology. Thus, it promoted a Nazism which was both respectable and justifiable. Read more...

What Makes American Christianity Tick?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-10-13T19:18:03-07:00

Book review of Jon Zens' A Church Building Every 1/2 Mile: What Makes American Christianity Tick? by Paul Sue Having read every issue of "Searching Together" magazine (edited by Jon Zens) since I first discovered it 15 years ago, I have come to appreciate the clarity, the graciousness and the wisdom and practical insights that Jon brings to the discussion around church life. While there have been a plethora of recent books on the subject of church, in this brief little gem consisting of 4 "essays", Jon distills his many years of study, observations and experience with helping many assemblies throughout the world. Read more...

Leaders And Their Delusions

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-10-13T19:13:36-07:00

by Van Robison The LIGHT of the world is Jesus Christ. Atheists and Christ haters obviously don't see the Light, because their world is delusional. Leaders of people in both the secular and church world are a very confused group of human beings. If it were not so, then why is the church world divided into endless divisions of customs, traditions and doctrines? Remember that God is not divided, nor is He the author of confusion. And why is the political world divided into endless divisions and waring factions? Does it not speak loudly and clearly that leaders are in fact a very confused people? It is human to follow human leaders, and consequently, the masses of humanity are very much sheep-like, following their false shepherds. Read more...

The Power Of Words

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-09-20T05:55:49-07:00

by Van Robison Words spoken shape our thinking. The words Jesus Christ spoke so impacted the world, that hundreds of millions of human beings have believed in Christ. Countless lives have been changed for the better because of the words of Jesus Christ. Odd, that at the same time, many take offense at Jesus Christ, even though everything He taught was only right and good. The real reason religious leaders of the time of Christ took offense with Him is because His words took away their false authority, false power, their prestige, their self importance, their pride, their vanity, their false teachings, their fake status and their looting. Jesus stripped fake religion to the bare bones, proving that what one sees in religious leaders is not necessarily a Godsend. Read more...

The "Divine Right" Of Pastors

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-09-01T02:47:09-07:00

by Van Robison Pastors of churches are like monarchs in European history who believed in the "Divine Right of Kings." Religious rulers and governments have a great deal in common, because they all believe in "Divine Right" to rule your life. One great, overwhelming lesson in life on earth is that human beings are not now, and never have been qualified to rule over their fellow man. Many kings and queens in history are notorious as tyrants, liars, thieves and murderers. The same is true of many rulers of governments throughout time, regardless of titles. The world we live in is a world of mind boggling injustices, in the name of "security", "national interests", "freedom", "self defense", "self preservation", "law", "religion", "God", "the Bible", "false accusations", "health", "prevention", "education", "science" and "the way that seems right." Read more...

Declaration Of Independence From Churchianity

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-08-23T01:34:08-07:00

by Van Robison We the people hold these truths to be self-evident, that all believers in Jesus Christ have the God given right to follow Jesus Christ as their Shepherd, and not to be bound in chains to either paid hirelings or overlords--variously called pastors, senior pastors, bishops or other titles. We hold that those who are born-again are entitled to look to Jesus Christ as the Way, the Truth and the Life, apart from institutional churches, which are man-made institutions. We hold that born-again believers have the responsibility to prove all things, try the spirits whether they be of God, to be aware of false teachers who use the name of Jesus Christ, and to define "truth" based upon their own personal studies of the Bible and discernment through the Holy Spirit. We hold that followers of Jesus Christ hear His voice and follow Him, and not to be clones in thinking of pastors, church creeds or church doctrines, which are all formulated by religious leaders. Read more...

Pavilions of Protection

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-08-13T00:08:25-07:00

Book review of Bill Gothard's Pavilions of Protection by Pastor Barry Black In the last issue of the MCOI Journal we reviewed Bill Gothard’s book, The Exceeding Great Power of God’s Grace. Due the limitations of space in a publication such as this a book review cannot be an exhaustive critique. Instead, we will highlight some of the more blatant issues. There are seven chapters in Pavilions of Protection. Even the most casual student of Bill’s teachings concerning the “principle of authority” can see that what once was an umbrella is now a pavilion…wow, it grew! But of course, that is what leaven does (Galatians 5:9). But fear not, in chapter seven, Bill returns to his umbrella analogy. Two main points are recurring themes in Pavilions of Protection. I will try to limit this review to these two major themes. Read more... | .doc | .pdf

Churchianity--Rest In Peace!

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-08-10T01:30:46-07:00

by Van Robison The institutional church system has engraved its own tombstone. Churchianity is dying and sealing its own fate as countless Christians rejoice to see the man-made customs and traditions of "professional pastors" pass into the nether world. After a very long encounter with false doctrines, false apostles, false teachings, false prophecies, false Y2K, false end times, false last days, false tithing and false Christs, the man-made church world is in upheaval. Like a game of chess, the "professional clergy" system of churchianity is in CHECKMATE. The Internet makes this truth a glaring reality, as innumerable websites attest to the death of the institutional church world. Plain and simple is the fact that Christians want real Truth, real Life and the real Way--Jesus Christ, and not fake churchianity. Read more...

"Authority"--The Most Widely Abused Form Of Fear

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-07-27T00:15:48-07:00

by Van Robison "Authority" is a major vehicle of both human governments and religion. The church world exploits millions of people through fear of church leaders. Cult groups are notorious to instill fear in their captives. Causing church goers to fear the loss of salvation if they don't conform to church leadership is a tool of dictatorship. Using very select passages of the Bible to validate authoritarianism is a common practice in the world of churches. Using very select passages of the Bible to validate "prosperity" by financially partnering with celebrity preachers and local pastors is also a very common practice in this day and age. Virtually anyone can quote scriptures, and "the Bible" is quoted probably more than any other reference on earth. The Bible is used as the source book and foundation for false authority, false prosperity, false man-made offices of power over others, false tithing in the New Testament era, false private church empires, and supposedly to validate control of common church goers by "professional" clergy. Innumerable good-hearted church goers have been spiritually abused by church leaders, using "the Bible" as their source of power-mongering, and this practice dates back a very long time in history. Read more...

SPAM again

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-07-23T20:26:18-07:00

Apparently, someone has once again tried to spam members of our discussion forums using the form e-mail function of the forums. To prevent this, do the following: 

Log onto the forum, and then click on "Profile" (near the top).
Click on "Privacy" (on the left).
Select "Hide your e-mail address and disallow form e-mail".

Unfortunately, choosing this option will prevent other members from contacting you privately for legitimate reasons, but if you wish to not receive any spam at all, this is the only way to do so.
If you do choose to allow form e-mail (ie., you don't mind if other members of this board can contact you privately), then please do not reply to any spam e-mail messages. Rather, report them to us here (by posting a reply to the thread) so that we can deal with them as soon as possible.

Thanks.

Jesus Christ Is Not For Sale

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-07-17T00:00:32-07:00

by Van Robison "Christianity" has been for a very long time, a smörgåsbord of choices as to what organization a church goer decides to participate in. The varieties are endless, from global church empires, to very small local churches with few attenders. Probably no church organization formed under the "laws" of man-made governments and nations, exists without a "FOR SALE" sign in the form of tithes, offerings or both. That is to say that churches merchandise Jesus Christ as a commodity FOR SALE, and expect financial partners. You might say that pastors and priests of churches offer salvation and eternal life at a price, and generally speaking, all church goers either adhere to the way of their pastors or priests, or hit the highway as a non-conformist. Read more...

The Exceeding Great Power of God's Grace

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-07-11T22:08:20-07:00

Book review of Bill Gothard's The Exceeding Great Power of God's Grace by Pastor Barry D. Black with contribution by L.L. (Don) Veinot, Jr. During the 1980's and early 1990's, we attended no less than half a dozen of Bill Gothard's "Basic Seminars," and no less than two "Advanced Seminars." we distinctly remember during that period, Gothard defined "grace" as "the power and desire to do God's will joyfully." That definition is far removed from the orthodox, Biblical definition of grace which, again, is: God's unmerited favor. The English word grace comes from the Greek word charis meaning gift, and it was in common usage among the pagans in the culture in which the epistles were penned. They certainly would not have understood it to mean "the power and ability to do God's will joyfully;" and if they had, the question then would have been, "Which god or gods?" since the word was in use prior to Christianity. Read more...

Tenacious Resistance To Truth By Church Leaders

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-07-01T00:53:46-07:00

by Van Robison An amazing reality about power, control, prestige and endless free money, is that those who nest in such places, tenaciously resist TRUTH. They resist truth by twisting scriptures to support their false authority over common church goers. While many church pastors are very deceived and deluded themselves, even if they are sincere, other leaders are simply addicted to power and money. Last year, the prestigious Wall Street Journal published an article entitled The Backlash Against Tithing by Suzanne Sataline, on November 23, 2007. What I find very intriguing is that many websites have posted comments about this article. Church goers have long been programmed to accept tithing as a "Christian" duty and responsibility, as well as the key to being materially blessed. It is therefore not surprising when many church goers post comments on various websites favoring the tithing principle. It shows the level of indoctrination many Christians have from pastors who stand in the pulpits. Read more...

Amateur Christians

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-06-28T00:27:25-07:00

From the June 28, 2008 entry of Our Daily Bread: The word amateur has been redefined over the years and has lost the luster of its original meaning. The English word comes from the Latin word amore, which means "to love." An amateur is someone who does something simply for the love of it. In today's way of thinking, receiving payment moves you into a "higher" category--that of a professional. The reasoning is that if someone is willing to pay for your service, you must be really good. An amateur, therefore, is considered to have less skill or talent. As I read my Bible, however, I see a different hierarchy of values. During the time of Jesus, the religious professionals were using their position to gain power and prestige for themselves, not to serve the people. Jesus didn't choose those who were wise, mighty, or noble by human standards (1 Cor. 1:26). He sought those willing to follow Him and be trained for loving service. In today's world, the scene is much the same. God is still looking for "amateurs," those who will serve the Lord for the sheer love of it. Compelled by our love for Jesus, may we, like the disciples and apostles before us, proclaim the love of God for the world by following Christ's example of loving and serving others. author: Julie Ackerman Link

I Pledge Allegiance To The Lamb

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-06-19T00:00:05-07:00

by Van Robison Most of us have heard the song I Pledge Allegiance to the Lamb sung by Ray Boltz, which is a very soul touching song about allegiance to Jesus Christ. It can be heard on the Internet by keying into YouTube. It seems somewhat astonishing that the entire "Christian" church world emphasizes going to church, pastors, partners, money and all things having to do with institutional churchianity, as allegiance to Christ. I have to take a few steps backward when I see church leaders idolize themselves and expect Christians to partner with them in their self-idolatry. In the first chapter of 1 Corinthians, Paul chastises folks for saying "I am of Paul" or "I am of Apollos" or I am of Cephas", and again at 1 Corinthians 3:4 "For while one says, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; ARE YOU NOT CARNAL?" Is there any difference today when pastors expect church goers to call them "my pastor" when the real Pastor is Jesus Christ? Read more...

Pastors Resign All Over The Nation

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-06-14T22:52:09-07:00

by Van Robsion Can anyone imagine massive resignations by pastors of churches, due to coming to the truth about the man-made "clergy/laity" system of churchianity? While it is true that pastors do resign, often due to burnout or other reasons, few celebrity pastors would ever willingly step down. Imagine waking up to newspaper headlines such as these:

Megachurch Pastors Quit--Finally See The Truth--Christ Is The Only Shepherd
Pastors Resign In Mass For Guilt Over Enforcing False Tithing
Church Denominations Fold After Seeing That Jesus Christ Is The Way, Truth And Life

News From Heaven--Interview With Jesus Christ

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-06-08T13:13:45-07:00

by Van Robison The following is a fictional interview with Jesus Christ. Jesus, I am overwhelmed to have this opportunity as a Gospel News reporter for the common man and woman, and as a personal follower of your Headship of the Body of Christ and as the Creator of the universe, I ask these questions with all respect, honor and humility. Sir, are modern day pastors really representatives of the Living Jesus Christ, as they proclaim? Read more...

Call Now For Prayer

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-06-04T22:38:34-07:00

by Van Robison Two traditions of television ministries are "Call now for prayer" or "Call now and pledge." Very often, when a "pledge" drive is being promoted by "Christian" television preachers or their networks, they will flash a view of several telephone operators sitting at desks, taking pledges or prayer calls. At times, they will show stacks and stacks of "letters" from letter writers, which they pray over, asking God to honor the requests and address the issues of concern. The customs and traditions of many television preachers are not Biblical and will not be found in the teachings of Jesus Christ or in the New Testament anywhere. There is nothing wrong with people praying for one another, and that is not the issue. The issue is that television ministries act like they are the catalyst and mediator between people and God. Chances are, what they are really after is your name and address so they can send you endless mail, wanting financial partners. Read more...

Churchianity--An Insult To Christ

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-05-27T18:24:07-07:00

by Van Robison The world of churches is at great odds with the role model and teachings of Jesus Christ. Churchianity has established itself as a great idol in the lives of untold millions of believers in God/Jesus Christ. Church empires have been around for a long time and they are the focus of attention of the priesthood (pastors and professional clergy), who practice priestcraft upon their followers. The absolute authority of life is Christ and it is He who establishes the standard by which all life is to be lived. It would seem overwhelmingly obvious, that God by being God, is the infallible source who is to be imitated, worshiped, obeyed and is the fountain of life. There is no authority in life on earth that supersedes or overrides Christ as being Shepherd and Master. Neither is it possible to see Jesus Christ as the GOOD SHEPHERD and hear His voice (John 10:11,27) if anyone on earth takes the place of Christ in your life (Matthew 23:8-10). Read more...

The 'Pastorization' Of Christians

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-05-19T00:28:27-07:00

by Van Robison In her quite revealing book The Deliberate Dumbing Down of America by Charlotte Thomson Iserbyt, Charlotte reveals an astonishing documented trail, proving that "education" in America is a tool of deliberate dysfunction. She worked in the U.S. Department of Education during the Regan Administration. Educational abuse is massive and while many see through it, many others do not. Among the world of Christians, there is a "Christian Dumbing Down" because millions have been "pastorized" by professional clergy. Pastorization causes church goers to be unable to think for themselves, and they are told what to believe by the clergy. Virtually, every day of the week, "Christian" television stations broadcast programs in which men and women are standing on platforms, often with their fingers pointed in your face, telling you what to believe. There is a great difference in taking the Gospel of the Kingdom of God to the unconverted and those who are not yet born-again, and the "professional clergy" system of the church world. Read more...

Fishers Of Men Or Fishers Of Money?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-05-13T00:32:39-07:00

by Van Robison Jesus told Peter and Andrew, who were brothers and who were also fishermen by trade, "Follow Me and I will make you FISHERS OF MEN" (Matthew 4:18-19). Many are the preachers today who proclaim they are fishing for souls, all the while they are really fishing for material riches, wealth, fame, prestige, money, power and authority. The church world is overrun with preachers who have gone fishing and cast their nets for million dollar homes, multi-million dollar homes, jet airplanes, motor coaches, expensive boats, free travels all around the world, and endless other luxuries. How many self-proclaimed pastors today seek personal disciples to follow themselves and to "partner" with them so that they can live a life of royalty, all the while pretending to represent Jesus Christ? Read more...

Church Outside the Walls

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-05-08T00:02:13-07:00

Church Outside the Walls is the award winning four part documentary series on DVD that is the first to explore the current phenomenon surrounding the exodus of millions of Christians from religious institutions.

Featuring interviews with:

Wayne Jacobsen and Brad Cummings, the two men who teamed up with author William P. Young to publish his groundbreaking best selling novel "The Shack".
Martin Scott author and international speaker.
Robert Lund, author and historian.
Professor Brent Walters, recognized early church historian.
Hosted by author and pastor for 30 years, David Fredrickson.

Read more...

Prophetic or Pathetic Ministry?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-05-03T22:43:54-07:00

by Fred G. London So many of our prophetic words, dreams and visions are delivered with impunity, sort of "hit and run" tactics, with no sense of responsibility to the word or the people to which it is directed. This lack of personal accountability to these "words" gives rise to ministerial malpractice. This ever growing phenomenon must be called to account and be addressed for the sake of discernment and accurately knowing the Mind of Christ. Read more...

Hostage To Pastors

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-04-20T12:51:02-07:00

by Van Robison How many of today's pastors would continue to preach if no money was involved in ministry? Very likely not more than a handful of them would preach if they did not get paychecks. Pastors all want you to volunteer your time and especially your money, but how many pastors volunteer to preach the Gospel for free? Did Jesus Christ ever intend that preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom of God should become a multi-billion dollar business enterprise, such as we see in the world of churches today? The message that Jesus Christ very clearly gave to His hand-picked disciples was "freely you have received, freely give" (Matthew 10:8), and yet almost all preachers today think "freely give" means for church goers to "freely give" to the preachers, when Jesus taught His "preachers" to be the ones to give freely, and not to merchandise the Gospel. Elsewhere Jesus taught that "by their fruit you will know them", and it seems the fruit of almost all pastors today is to take your money, and not to give freely. Read more...

Wellspring Retreat and Resource Center

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-04-15T22:43:54-07:00

From Wikipedia: Wellspring Retreat and Resource Center is a residential counseling center specializing in the treatment of individuals who they evaluate as having suffered in what they consider abusive religious groups, organizations, cults, domestic violence, clergy and therapist abuse, and manipulative relationships involving mind-control, brainwashing, psychological, emotional, mental, or spiritual abuse. It is accredited by CARF, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. Founded in 1986 by Dr. Paul R. Martin and his wife Barbara, and located in Albany, Ohio, it is the only accredited facility of its kind in the world. It also is the only counseling facility recommended by the Christian Research Institute. Wellspring is also a non-profit 501(c) corporation. Read more...

The Heresy of Mind Control

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-03-29T01:36:45-07:00

The Heresy of Mind Control: Recognizing Con Artists in Leadership by Stephen Martin From the introduction: Suppose you move to a different area, and are keeping your eyes open for a good group to belong to (a social club, a church, a synagogue, or service organization). You visit one such group where the people are very friendly, loving, and give you individual attention. The group has a variety of programs: a rehabilitation program for drug addicts, services and nursing homes for the elderly, help for the poor, and free clinics. The leader inspires the disillusioned, the disenchanted, and those who have been rejected elsewhere. He is well-known and respected in the area, and the mayor gave him a position as Director of the City Housing Authority. Would you join this group? Suppose you spend four years in college and nearly two years in graduate school to prepare for a career in Christian music. Then the ministers of your home church tell you that you are not needed in their music program. Shortly afterward, you find a new group that welcomes you with open arms. They really care for people. The leader of this group has fascinating Bible studies. You and everyone else are able to sit and listen to him for several hours at a time. Would you stay in this group? If you answered "yes" to the first situation, you joined the church led by Jim Jones who led over 900 of his followers into a mass suicide murder. If you liked the second group, you became a follower of David Koresh who led over 80 of his followers to die in a blaze of fire. A wolf in sheep's clothing is a short and simple description of a cult leader--as these men were. Are there any warning signs that a group and its leader are dangerous? That’s largely what this book is about. Read more...

Journey's End

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-04-04T00:02:04-07:00

by Van Robison There comes a time in the life of every human being, when the allotted time on earth comes to the journey's end. It is somewhat astonishing how much of human life is wasted in pursuits that don't contribute to love, joy, peace and happiness, and just living a life loving the gift of life. I am of the opinion that life on earth is a prison of the minds and thinking of human beings, and that prison has millions of chains of bondage. As human beings we do not know true freedom, except in partial ways. For example, if a person was hooked on drugs in the past and through Jesus Christ they were set free, that is a form of freedom. If we are given eternal life through Jesus Christ, then we also have freedom from the loss of salvation. So while there are forms of freedom, there are endless and countless bondages that we are not free from in this life. Read more...

Christian Schools And Homeschooling

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-03-21T20:22:26-07:00

by Van Robison Human societies generally dictate that all children within a nation must be educated, and basically in public schools. When I read the The Communist Manifesto years ago, I learned that the "ten planks" of that manifesto have long been in existence within the United States and other "free" countries. Anyone who has never read about the "ten planks" and who keys into the Internet and reads those ten points, will be appalled (and we have been led to believe that we live in a society of "freedom"). The tenth plank of that manifesto is free public school education (and no doubt with ulterior motives). Human governments look upon children as a public resource, and they want your children indoctrinated and programmed to be conformists. Read more...

Pastors Frequently Twist Scriptures

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-03-15T00:00:35-07:00

by Van Robison A new "Christian" television station has gone on the air in our area, and on the television screen it says, "Thank You Partners", meaning of course, "we want your money" (and as usual they list a toll free number, and have their telephone operators taking calls). Oddly, I have never read in any of the teachings of Jesus Christ in the four Gospels, where Jesus said, "Thank You Partners for Your Financial Support." Instead, what I have read is that Jesus said to His disciples (you know the guys He sent out to heal the sick, cast out the demons and to convey Christ to others?), "Freely you have received, freely give" (Matthew 10:8). A "funny" thing has happened on the way into the Kingdom of God, and that is that the preachers have become money obsessed, and they think the Gospel can't be preached to the world, unless they pocket a trainload of your money. I wonder how the Gospel spread into all the world for all those years before television (you know, for the last two thousand years)? Read more...

To Tithe Or Not To Tithe?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-03-02T12:11:56-08:00

(CBS) Tithing, the giving of one tenth of one’s income to a religious group, has its roots in the Old Testament. But some Christians are questioning it, and the answers might surprise you. In an era when contributions to religious groups are growing more slowly than other charitable giving, and as Congress takes a closer look at the finances of some televangelists, Martha Teichner examines the controversy over tithing, and meets some inspiring people who strongly believe in the power of generosity. Read more...

How Deep Is The Rabbit Hole?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-02-26T00:00:24-08:00

Book review of Frank Viola and George Barna's Pagan Christianity: Exploring the Roots of Our Church Practices by Paul Sue The hard-hitting (though certainly not shrill) preface by Viola sets the tone for the rest of the book: "Contemporary Christianity has fallen into the errors of both the Pharisees and the Saducees. ... We break the Scripture just as much by burying it under a mountain of human tradition as by ignoring its principles." Barna follows on this note in his Introduction with these questions: "Does it surprise you that most of what we do in religious circles has no precedent in Scripture? ... Does it really matter how we practice our faith, as long as the activities enable people to love God and obey Him?" Read more...

The Tithing Swindle

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-02-21T00:00:03-08:00

by Van Robison Tithing as the church world teaches and demands from Christians, is among the greatest swindles in the Christian era. In fact, the subject of tithing is so misrepresented and so misunderstood, that once anyone really gets their eyes opened to the truth, you have to wonder how you were ever so deceived. Understanding the truth about tithing is elementary, and the primary reason that pastors don't know the truth about this outrageous false teaching is because their Bible study is superficial, and very likely they also love free money. I have no personal doubt that there are false teachers, whose motive in teaching tithing is simply $$$$. Money is a means of wealth, and when sheeple can be made to believe that this false doctrine impacts their relationship with Jesus Christ or their salvation, it is nothing short of pure heresy. Read more...

The Clergy/Laity Church Lie

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-02-16T11:36:03-08:00

From our good friend Jon Zens at Searching Together:

Spiritual Whistleblowers

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-02-11T00:16:22-08:00

by Van Robison We all know that whistleblowers are people who expose light on government cover-ups, or on anything in life that they are knowledgeable about, because they feel it needs to be exposed. People who have a conscience and who want no part in concealing truth, have often come forward to expose lies, corruption and dastardly deeds. The obvious danger in exposing truth is that the powers of darkness often times will malign the whistleblower, or even assassinate the messenger. It is amazing the lengths that darkness will go, to spin a spider's web of deceit in order to have their way. In the end they always, always lose, because they exit this life with total loss of power, control and money. Unless there is eternal life for each individual, the only winners in life are those to whom Jesus Christ gives life--all others are self deceived in a world of their own self delusions. Read more...

Spiritual abuse: Doctoral student inviting Christians to tell their stories

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-02-08T03:54:30-08:00

Although she's a committed Christian, Barb Orlowski hasn't always felt comfortable inside a church. Nearly two years ago, the mother of two young adults was shocked and hurt when a misunderstanding with the church leadership forced her out of the Charismatic congregation near Langley, B.C. she'd been attending for more than a dozen years. Now the doctoral student is inviting other Christians with similar stories to contact her as part of her research into recovery from spiritual abuse. "When you've gone through your own devastating church experience, you're looking for why? What went wrong?" explains Orlowski, a student at ACTS Seminaries located on the campus of Langley's Trinity Western University. "It was a happy, healthy, apparently, church family. We didn't see what was happening underneath." Read more... | Take the survey

New Testament Pattern Of Christianity?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-02-07T00:00:10-08:00

by Van Robison Many folks in the house church movement sincerely believe that when Christians have meetings in private homes or in outdoor spaces, they are following the "correct" New Testament "pattern" of being the church. Even when people exit institutional churchianity, it seems very difficult to take churchianity out of the people. I would like to suggest that there is really only one true "Pattern" to life, and that is simply Jesus Christ and His teachings, and that is because Jesus Christ is the Living Waters of Life. Read more...

I Can't Hear God Anymore: Life in a Dallas Cult

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-01-30T01:20:12-08:00

I Can't Hear God Anymore: Life in a Dallas Cult is the true story of Wendy Duncan's experience in a Bible-based cult in Dallas, Texas. The cultic group, the Trinity Foundation, portrays itself as the watchdog of the televangelists and investigator of ministry fraud. Trinity Foundation and its charismatic leader, Ole Anthony, rose to fame in the early 1990's when it assisted Dianne Sawyer’s PrimeTime Live program in exposing Robert Tilton and two other Dallas televangelists as religious charlatans. Ole Anthony has been involved in investigations of numerous religious figures, working with programs such as NBC Dateline and 60 Minutes. Anthony’s group has been lauded in US News & World Report, The LA Times Magazine, and The New Yorker. He has been a near-ubiquitous commentator on all things religious for both local and national media outlets, but little has known about the inside workings of his own group. Read more...

Discussion forums

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-01-27T14:22:15-08:00

Just a friendly reminder that we have a discussion forum where you can join and discuss any issues relating to spiritual abuse, legalism, authoritarianism, leadership abuse, etc. It's a place where you can ask a question, seek advice, discuss any of the articles or stories on our website, make announcements, and more. You can also post any technical problems in the forums regarding this website, such as broken links, missing pages, spelling and grammatical errors, etc. Your input in this area is greatly appreciated. Enter forums

Called Out Or Called Forth: What Does Church Mean?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-02-04T00:00:11-08:00

For much of my life I was taught that the English word “Church” which comes from the Greek word “ekklesia” means, “Called Out Ones”. After this definition is given, the speaker will typically go on to tell his audience how the Church is “called out”, to be different. So, far there would seem to be little reason for a disagreement on this, since the Greek word does indeed have etymological roots of “called out” but it is not just word origin that determines what a word means, but context. The context of “ekklesia” comes from secular Greek, which defined the word as “called FORTH ones”, or “gathering” which would equate to our “town meeting” or perhaps even political bodies such as the Senate. Thus, the Church is more of a Body than we suppose. Read more...

Is That Really Necessary?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-01-28T01:30:34-08:00

by Fred G. London It is imperative that we have right spiritual thinking in order to see a true spiritual expression of the Kingdom of God through His Church. "Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit of God, that we might know the things freely given to us by God, which things (we ought to) speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words" (1 Cor. 2:12-13). Read more...

Simplicity In Christ--Lost In Churchianity

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-01-24T01:12:39-08:00

by Van Robison What if you had no New Testament teachings other than those actual teachings of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the four Gospels? The simplicity that is in Jesus Christ seems to be lost in a maze of confusion. The confusion is the result of multiple voices, when in fact there is only one voice that is the Great and Good Shepherd. We can glean what Jesus came to teach us from the four Gospels, and His first instruction was, "Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" (Matthew 4:17). Read more...

Request for Help (Survey)

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-01-16T21:29:59-08:00

This was posted a while ago, but there is still time to contribute. Let's all help out Barb! Request Letter No. 1: Request for Help for Potential Participants Hi Everyone, My name is Barb Orlowski. I am on the Doctor of Ministry program at A.C.T.S. Seminaries in Langley, B.C., Canada. In order to conduct the research necessary to complete my dissertation, I could use your help. I am conducting a survey among Christians who have experienced emotional and spiritual distress under authoritarian and controlling church leaders and have recovered from this experience. Read more...

Money Rules The World--Even The Churches

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-01-10T00:16:44-08:00

by Van Robison Have you ever noticed in life, that those who have the money are the controllers of all the people? Oddly, even in the world of churches, it is the preachers who have the money, and it is the preachers who control the people. We all know that the government, who plays the role of "God" in the lives of all the citizens, is also the source that takes your money and regulates your life from the cradle to the grave. In the church world, the preachers convince the church goers to be taxed through tithing, and by that means many preachers become very wealthy, and they also rule much of what people believe. Read more...

Opening The Lockbox

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-01-14T12:23:34-08:00

by Kristen DeVoe In order to speak, one must have a voice. Now this might seem obvious to most people but to people who have been abused in a cult, it's not always the case. The voice has been overtaken by another stronger voice, the voice of the leader. Through mind control, the cult leader imposes his will and views on the follower so the follower loses her own will and views. When mind control is accompanied by physical or sexual abuse, the task of speaking up becomes even more complicated and difficult. Read more...

Should the Church Teach Tithing?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-01-18T00:00:56-08:00

Should the Church Teach Tithing? A Theologian's Conclusions about a Taboo Doctrine by Russell Earl Kelly Book description (from Amazon): This 288 page book began as a Ph. D. dissertation. It is an easy to read reference commentary which also contains many Greek and Hebrew word studies, and an extensive bibliography. Every tithing text is covered, plus every possible extension of it in the New Testament. The author demonstrates how the Church must replace this last taboo remnant of the Old Covenant Law and enter fully into must better New Covenant provisions for accomplishing God's work. No stone is left uncovered. A thorough historical survey of the first 300 years of church history and verse by verse studies of key chapters adds compelling evidence. Read more...

Why Jesus Chose Fishermen

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-01-21T01:17:23-08:00

by Van Robison When Jesus Christ asked some local fishermen to follow Him (Matthew 4:18-19), there had to be good reasons that He did so. There are a number of reasons that we could suggest:

They were teachable.
They were not formally educated.
They believed Jesus and His teachings.
They had no credentials such as "pastor", "senior pastor", "reverend" or some other self-flattering title.
They were not full of the vanity of the "educated" religious leaders.

Confessions of a Mega Church Member

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-01-07T00:18:55-08:00

From Black Money Matters: Senator Grassley's most recent actions have compelled me to make a confession as a mega church member. He is exposing what an increasing amount of us have known for years. These "CEO-Pastor-Reverend-Doctor's" have been fleecing the flock for years. For them, money does matter, in fact it is the only thing that matters. Some may ask why this piece was not coined "Confessions of a Former Mega Church Member". My response is simple, I choose to remain there in order to continue my efforts to expose them and reveal the truth to others, whether they can handle the truth or not. Read more...

Spiritual Tug-Of-War

info@batteredsheep.com — 2008-01-01T12:32:23-08:00

by Van Robison Although God is not the author of confusion, the world we live in is a perpetual tug-of-war for the minds and hearts of human beings. It is not only true in the spiritual realm, but also in every area of life. Just one example in a world of millions of issues would be the scare that spinach is tainted. As a result, some are calling for more "control", which is generally man's answer to every seeming problem on earth. On the flip side, there is the belief that food production should revert back to local farming, home gardens, organic growing and so forth as opposed to mass production and commercialization. Read more...

Analysis of a Church Help Wanted Ad

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-12-22T02:27:45-08:00

by Peter Alton Recently I was looking at possible ministry opportunities available on churchstaffing.com and I stumbled across this incredible ad, which is reprinted below just as I found it, no editing whatsoever: Read more...

Did Jesus Give "Authority" To Pastors?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-12-18T00:00:54-08:00

by Van Robison The term "pastor" was never used in the vocabulary of Jesus Christ--NOT ONCE! In the King James New Testament the singular term "pastor" is not to be found--NOT ONCE! The plural term "pastors" is found in the King James New Testament--ONLY ONCE! Oddly, the King James translators used the term "pastors" (plural) at Ephesians 4:11, while in all other instances the same Greek word was translated as "shepherd." Strong's Exhaustive Concordance for "pastors" is number 4166, which is the same number used for "shepherd" elsewhere and is the same, identical number 4166. Read more...

When The Sheep Go Marching In

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-12-14T00:05:20-08:00

by Van Robison For many years, like my fellow sheep, I went dutifully marching into the church buildings. As with my fellow sheep, we all nodded a big "bah bah" to everything the "pastor" said and did. We all thought our shepherd was the local pastor and sometimes we even chorused "bah bah" to visiting "shepherds." One day the Chief Shepherd told the sheep that He is the ONLY HEAD, and many of the sheep decided to follow the voice of the Chief Shepherd and no longer heard the calls of the paid hirelings. Now many of the sheep follow Jesus Christ instead of man-shepherds, because the Chief Shepherd loves the sheep and gives His life for the sheep (John 10:11-14). When the paid hirelings see the wolf coming, the paid hirelings flee and leave the sheep to be devoured. Thankfully, Jesus Christ provides a safe place for the sheep to pasture. Read more...

Why We Left California

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-12-06T00:13:24-08:00

by Steve Duplantis As you all know we have moved from California to Georgia. California proved way too expensive for us to live which played a role in our decision to move. We moved to California with the intention of helping New Hope Church grow and eventually moving into full time ministry. That never happened. Our experience there was nothing short of hell. We were lied to and taken advantage of by the leadership of New Hope. Damita and I tried to resign and leave without revealing our true reasons in order to spare a friendship I thought was made between ourselves and the pastors. However, when I tendered my resignation, the pastor did not speak to us--he didn't even say goodbye. We were more or less treated like dirt. Read more...

Why Church Leaders Fear Independent House Groups

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-12-03T00:46:13-08:00

by Van Robison There can hardly be any doubt that many institutional church leaders fear the independence of private house groups, that are not controlled by pastors. Pastors may love "cell" house groups, only because they are controlled by the churches, but private gatherings of "unchurched" believers cannot be controlled by professional clergy. Here are some of the excuses and reasons why institutional church pastors fear the independent private fellowships: Read more...

No More Tears

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-11-29T02:59:46-08:00

by Van Robison Life is tough! Anyone who has lived long enough will experience many tears in life. If there is a human being who has never known sorrow, I have never met that person. One of my all time favorite scripture passages in the Bible is found at Revelation 21:4 "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes, and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away." Living in paradise will someday be more than a fantasy. Read more...

Wal-Mart Churchianity--We Preach For Money

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-11-20T00:00:11-08:00

by Van Robison Comparison shopping for churches can be a life long ordeal, because the brands to choose from are innumerable. Walking down the aisles of Wal-Mart Churchianity can cost you a great deal of money if you buy into their sermons and their church teachings. The world of churches is a world of vast diversity, and virtually every leader of every church lives in a world of make-believe--a bubble. Church leaders are mostly all self important and love to make others think that the life of Christians revolves around them. They want commitment, because their income depends on it and many will say that "church hopping" is a no no. They love to lay a guilt trip on anyone they can't control. Read more...

Jesus Has Left The Building: free Podcast available

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-11-14T21:56:17-08:00

Paul Vieira, author of Jesus Has Left The Building has just sent us an email:

Hi, I hope things are going well with you. I thought I would send you a short note to let you know that I'm making my book available for free to listen to in a downloadable audio file. Each week I'm reading a chapter from my book Jesus Has Left The Building in a new audio podcast. To subscribe in iTunes visit this link. Once you've installed iTunes and subscribed to the podcasts, each time you launch iTunes, the latest episode will automatically be downloaded. You can then store and play these audio files using your iPod device, other portable MP3 player, or computer. Best of all, these podcasts are FREE! Feel free to forward this message to anyone else you think would enjoy these podcasts. Thanks, Paul

If you'll recall, Vieira's book was earlier reviewed on this website.

Where does all the money go?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-11-14T03:45:55-08:00

This video clip shows how certain church leaders and ministries grossly misappropriate funds donated by gullible church members:

Truth Is Sometimes--Shocking!

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-11-12T18:47:55-08:00

by Van Robison When Jesus Christ made His entrance into the human realm of life, nearly two thousand years ago, He SHOCKED the world. The expectation of the Messiah was very disappointing for many, because they were looking for a FICTIONAL Messiah. The REAL JESUS CHRIST is just as shocking today, as He was when He taught His own personal disciples. The religious leaders of the time of Christ were appalled at the teachings of Jesus. They were horrified by Jesus, because Jesus demolished their man-made customs, traditions, deceits, fraud, false teachings, false authority, greed, lust and power mongering (Matthew 23). The response of those religious leaders to Jesus was hate, persecution, attempted murder, lies, false accusations and ultimately death to Jesus Christ. Read more...

Wolves in Sheep's Clothing

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-11-06T01:28:08-08:00

by Fred G. London There is more to the discerning of "savage wolves" that goes even beyond doctrine. Yet, as it is, many in the church appear to have great difficulty in judging for themselves as to whether what a man teaches is representative of a pure gospel or "another gospel." Paul could not have spelled it out any clearer than when he wrote to the Philippians, "For many walk, of whom I often told you, and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of Christ, whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things" (Phil. 3:18-19). Read more...

Sunday: Holyday or Man-Made Tradition?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-11-01T00:20:33-07:00

by Van Robison Many are the customs of the church world, that have nothing to do with Jesus Christ or the teachings of Christ. Sunday "go to church" is at the top of the list of man-made traditions (along with tithing). In the Old Testament, the Sabbath of rest was the seventh day of the week: "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy" (Exodus 20:8). All Bible students know that the weekly Sabbath of the Old Testament referred to the seventh day of the week. What many Christians are unaware of is that there were also other "Sabbaths" in the Old Testament that had to do with annual Feasts or Holydays. At times, it was possible for an annual Sabbath or "Highday" to fall on the seventh day of the week, which made it a double Sabbath. Read more...

The Organized Church Conspiracy

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-10-26T00:00:41-07:00

by Van Robison There is no greater way to control people than through organizations and mind control. Human governments often control people through force and violence, but mind control is far more formidable in long term consequence. We find this very interesting observation in Genesis 11:4 "And they said, Go to, let us build us A CITY and A TOWER, whose top may reach unto heaven; and LET US MAKE A NAME, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth." Whether this "tower of Babel" was literal or symbolic, it is nevertheless food for thought about life on earth. Human beings have always built their "towers" to control others and to cause men to be awed by "tower power." The world is full of "towers" in terms of countless human governments throughout the world, and many are the kingdoms of men that rise and fall. Human symbolic towers come in many forms, both in the secular world and in the world of religions. Read more...

SPAM e-mails in the forums

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-10-21T19:43:42-07:00

Update: Please see this thread in the forums on the recent SPAM that was being sent to forum members: http://www.batteredsheep.com/forums/viewtopic.php? id=71

"Shepherd" In The New Testament

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-10-21T19:43:59-07:00

by Van Robison In our day and age, and through time, many have come, calling themselves "pastors", which from reading the teachings of Jesus Christ, is totally contrary to what Jesus taught. Jesus never referred to anyone other than Himself as SHEPHERD. If Jesus Christ wanted Peter to be a "pastor", why didn't Jesus call Peter--Pastor Peter? Why didn't Jesus call John--Pastor John? No, what Jesus said is that you have ONE SHEPHERD, ONE MASTER, ONE FATHER and all of us are simply "brethren." Virtually all "pastors" see themselves as "under-shepherds" to Christ, but Jesus Christ never called anyone "under-shepherds." Read more...

About Van Robison...

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-10-16T23:56:43-07:00

Someone wrote in recently asking for more information about Van Robison. Unfortunately, I accidentally deleted her email before I could reply to her. :( Anyway, in response to her email, I've updated the About Us section of our website to include some background info about Van. I hope this answers her question. :)

Spiritual Seduction And Spiritual Whores

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-10-14T00:10:57-07:00

by Van Robison In the Old Testament, God told Israel that she was a "harlot" (Jeremiah 3:6). The reason she was a "whore" is because she betrayed God and went whoring after other gods. Anyone will find by checking in the Strong's Exhaustive Concordance, the words "harlot", "whore", "adultery", "whoredoms", "whoring" and "abominations" in various verses throughout the prophets, as applied to Israel, Judah and Jerusalem. Ezekiel chapter 16 and many other parts of the Old Testament prophets, are an incredible indictment against ancient Israel, Judah and Jerusalem. Originally, Israel was committed to obey God Almighty the Creator as the one and only God and was to have no other gods (Exodus 20:1-3). God even says of ancient Israel, that He gave her a "bill of divorce" at Jeremiah 3:8 because she was a backslider and committed adultery. Read more...

Request for Help (Survey)

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-10-06T00:28:41-07:00

Request Letter No. 1: Request for Help for Potential Participants Hi Everyone, My name is Barb Orlowski. I am on the Doctor of Ministry program at A.C.T.S. Seminaries in Langley, B.C., Canada. In order to conduct the research necessary to complete my dissertation, I could use your help. I am conducting a survey among Christians who have experienced emotional and spiritual distress under authoritarian and controlling church leaders and have recovered from this experience. Here are the criteria that I am looking for in participants:

Christians who have experienced emotional and spiritual distress under authoritarian and controlling church leaders and who have ceased to be associated with those congregations;
Christians who subsequently have recognized and processed their spiritual grief and pain and have experienced spiritual recovery;
Christians who are willing to share how they have processed their negative experience and have recovered spiritual harmony; those who can share what has happened since this painful episode. Christians who can answer this question: What factors have helped you to restore your confidence in God and His people?

If people feel that they fit the criteria for this study, please contact me. I will give you further details about this study, and then I will send you the questionnaire along with the consent information. The responses given by those participating will be kept confidential. Your responses will be put in anonymous form and may be kept for further use after the completion of this study. Thank you for your interest and participation in this study. I appreciate the time and effort that it takes to complete a questionnaire. In Him, Barb Barb’s contact email: churchexitersq@telus.net

Comments and questions are welcome.
When you respond to this request by emailing me--please let me know which site you saw this information. Thanks.

Request Letter No. 2: Request for Help from Pastors Greetings, I am student enrolled in the A.C.T.S. Doctor of Ministry program in Langley, B.C., Canada. In order to conduct the research necessary to complete my dissertation, I need the assistance of pastoral leaders. I could use your help with my research. I realize that you probably receive frequent requests to fill out surveys, but I would invite you to take a few minutes, complete a questionnaire and return it to me. This would be a significant help. I am looking for pastors who have endeavored to provide spiritual guidance and help for the following people:

Christians who have experienced emotional and spiritual distress under authoritarian and controlling church leaders and who have ceased to be associated with those congregations.

There are many Christians who have faced the untimely distress of this particular yet widespread phenomenon. Many have simply left the church, while others have made an effort to reintegrate into a local church setting. It has taken courage for them to desire to reconnect with a pastor and seek their assistance in processing their grief and disillusionment with previous church leaders. I would appreciate hearing how you, as a pastor, have provided spiritual guidance and encouragement for individuals who have faced this type of emotional and spiritual pain at the hands of those that they had trusted as their spiritual leaders. I believe that your insights would provide pertinent and helpful data for this study. The information you give will be kept confidential. Any use of your responses in my dissertation will be put in anonymous form, but may be kept for further use after the completion of this study. If ever needed, I will ask for your permission to quote you. Thank you for your interest and participation in this research. I appreciate the time and effort that it takes to complete a questionnaire. Thanks, Barb Email Address: churchexitersq@telus.net

Comments and questions are welcome.
When you respond to this request by emailing me--please let me know which site you saw this information. Thanks.

Candyman Preachers

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-10-01T00:00:10-07:00

by Van Robison Almost anyone today is very familiar with the movie Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Many modern day prosperity preachers are a lot like the "Chocolate Factory", who promise all sorts of goodies, including the "Everlasting Gobstopper" (the miracle candy that never diminishes and lasts forever). Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory is, of course, pure fantasy. Prosperity Candyman Preachers are just like the fantasy chocolate factory--a world of make believe. It has become amusing how certain television "Christian" networks seem to solely exist to have their "everlasting fundraisers". While they do so, they promise all who partner with them "everlasting gobstoppers". Prosperity preachers would have people believe that somehow they are the "Candyman". They make claims that sound delicious, appetizing and irresistible. Many are the gullible who stand in line for their "Financial Chocolate Bar". Prosperity preachers promise you a "Golden Ticket" to prosperity if you only buy their candy. Read more...

Why I Don't Watch Christian TV

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-09-26T01:17:03-07:00

by Fred G. London Right before Candie arrived home from work, I was quickly reminded as to why I rarely watch "Christian" Programs much any more. As I was perusing the channels, I stumbled upon one of the Christian networks, and lo and behold, it happened to have one of its "bless me" ministries on the channel. If I didn't have such a strong sense of consequences, I think I would have put my foot right through that TV! The hostess of the show was an attractive and well spoken woman with a "dynamic" teaching ministry (they always are, you know) with her guest, a man who looked about sixty. He sported a sort of bad "Beatles" haircut, and I assume he was a theological doctor as that was the title preceding his name. Yes, he was a doctor all right, as in "quack"! Read more...

A Letter To Jesus

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-09-21T01:18:09-07:00

by Van Robison Dear Jesus, I am writing this personal letter to you, because I have questions and issues about this thing called "church", which seems to falsely represent who you really are. From the time I was a child I have always believed in God. When my dad passed away, I was a child of eleven years old, and having no mother, my relatives didn't take me to church as my dad always did. As a young man of the age of eighteen, I became very interested in church again and I listened to a man preach on the radio. I thought he spoke truth, and so when I left the Air Force, I joined this church. After twelve years of this particular church, with all of its authoritarianism, legalistic teachings from the Old Testament, and three different tithes and endless offerings, and other odd teachings, I took my family and left. Read more...

Spiritual Pirates Who Plunder Christians

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-09-14T03:43:24-07:00

by Van Robison It is nothing short of astonishing how so many Christians today allow themselves to be plundered and robbed by spiritual pirates in the pulpits. In the New Testament, Jesus called these spiritual pirates false prophets and false teachers (Matthew 24:5). They are also called false apostles in 2 Corinthians 11:13 ("apostles" meaning "one sent"), and they have not been sent. These preacher pirates have appointed themselves to represent Jesus Christ, and in that role, they have plundered your gold and silver and emptied your bank account into their private treasure chest. Many of these "angels of light" live in million dollar or multi-million dollar homes, and some even own private jets worth millions, and drive around in Rolls Royces or other luxury vehicles, and all at the expense of their megachurch sponges in the pews and their television money donors. Read more...

Catch Phrases

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-09-10T00:09:16-07:00

by Van Robison Earlier this year, I was watching a few minutes of the INSP (Inspiration Network), whose President is David Cerullo, son of the famous Morris Cerullo. I was amused by the catch phrases they flash across the screen while they are soliciting donations. I wrote most of the catch phrases down on paper and I list them here just for the purpose of proving what some of the television prosperity gospel preachers do. Read more...

Find Your Church In The Teachings Of Jesus Christ

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-09-11T00:00:50-07:00

by Van Robison In reading the four Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, I searched in vain for even one church name or church corporation, or non-profit church organization or affiliation known today, and found none to be mentioned in the teachings of Jesus Christ. The world of Protestantism has splintered into literally many thousands of different groups over the years. The following church names are missing from the four Gospels, and for that matter from the entire New Testament. Jesus Christ never mentioned the name of even one of today's church organizations as we know them, and easily verifiable by checking the Strong's Exhaustive Concordance for any of the following. Read more...

Tithing: The Great False Doctrine

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-09-07T00:00:33-07:00

by Van Robison Many churches teach that tithing 10% of one's income to the church is a part of obedience to God and a requirement in the New Testament, as well as the Old Testament. They love to quote Malachi 3:8 "Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed me, but you say, wherein have we robbed you? In tithes and offerings." The truth is that when anyone does an in-depth study of the tithing issue, it will be found that the concept of "tithing" is very misunderstood, even from an Old Testament perspective. Many different authors have presented in-depth studies on tithing, covering all the issues in both the Old and New Testaments. While preachers love to make Christians think that "tithing" represents 10% of one's "income", it is easy to prove that in fact, tithes in the Old Testament involved several tithes, used for different purposes and that tithing is not at all what Christians have been led to believe. Read more...

Jesus Christ Never Spiritually Abuses

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-09-01T00:05:53-07:00

by Van Robison Battered sheep are only battered by human pastors, man-made religions, human governments, and other human beings. If you have ever experienced spiritual abuse, then you can know assuredly that Jesus Christ is not responsible. Jesus Christ does not batter or abuse as do human governments or religions or human beings. Atheists love to point to the incredible violence that is found in the Old Testament and to say, that if God is love, how can this be? A valid question indeed and some of the answers that preachers give for many things in the Old Testament are not satisfactory, and that is because human beings simply don't have answers to many questions in life. Like some others, I too see a great difference between God as presented to the world in the Old Testament and the life and teachings of Jesus Christ in the New Testament. I cannot personally comprehend the difference and so therefore I reserve some questions to ask Jesus Christ, for which no preacher has a valid answer. Many things assigned to "God" in the Old Testament are for me enigma's, and being one who questions everything, I don't assume that we necessarily have the answers. Read more...

The Ignatius Syndrome

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-08-27T12:01:50-07:00

by Fred G. London From an historical perspective, Ignatius is generally considered to be one of the church fathers worthy of apostolic stature. He was born in Syria and had been educated within the realm of Greek philosophy and related mysticism, influences which arguably played a part in his future doctrinal beliefs. There is even evidence to suggest that he may have been personally discipled by the apostle John. In the very least, he was discipled by those who were. His significance and profound influence upon the early church and the legacy which he left for future generations is without question. There is every indication to suggest that he was a man full of faith accompanied by an intense love for Christ and a zeal for His church to match. He was a man who, at the end of his life when faced with imminent martyrdom, literally had to beg wealthy and influential friends in Rome not to intercede on his behalf in attempting to have his life spared. The grace and nobility Igantius exhibited leading up to his being fed to the lions in the arena has served as an example to Christians ever since. Read more...

Questions Jesus Christ Never Asked

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-08-18T00:03:44-07:00

by Van Robison Unlike Christians and their pastors, Jesus Christ never asked the following questions that Christians are obsessed with:

Do you go to church?
Where do you go to church?
Will you come to church with me?
Do you go to church on Sunday?
Do you go to church on Saturday?
Who is your church pastor? Read more...

Leaders As Stumbling Blocks

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-08-15T00:32:31-07:00

by Fred G. London A sister in the Lord writes: Just think of what people like me would be able to accomplish in Christ if we were under leadership that was focused on helping those put under their authority! ??? Think of what the Body of Christ would look like if the leaders weren't so paranoid about someone being liked or accepted more than them or having a greater anointing than them... If we could just move more together towards what Jesus' prayer was for us -- just think of what we could do! (John 17) Read more...

Professional Pickpockets In The Pulpits

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-08-10T01:24:52-07:00

by Van Robison Jesus Christ is the absolute standard of all human conduct and life. When Jesus first began His earthly ministry, He quoted a prophecy about Himself from the book of Isaiah and we read at Luke 4:18, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he has sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised." Also in Matthew 11:5, "...and the poor have the gospel preached to them." Jesus told His disciples when He sent them out, to preach "The Kingdom of heaven is at hand" (Matthew 10:7). And in the next verse (verse 8), He said "... FREELY YOU HAVE RECEIVED, FREELY GIVE." It would be obvious that as the disciples traveled around and preached the Gospel of the Kingdom of God, that someone had to feed these men and also provide them shelter for the night's lodging. But that aside, they still nevertheless at the command of Jesus Christ, did not charge money to convey Christ to others. If they had, it would have been a betrayal of their commission from Christ. Read more...

Are Churches The Home Of Wolves?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-08-07T00:00:52-07:00

by Van Robison Many wolves (Matthew 7:15) have made their home in the world of churchianity. They prey upon the unsuspecting, the naive and the undiscerning. They devour their prey on the pretense that they are "ministers" of Jesus Christ (Matthew 24:5). They don't prance around as if they are wolves, but on the other hand, they come in sheep's clothing. Wolves come in many different disguises using flattering titles to make their prey think they are legitimate. Some wolves are pastors, some are senior pastors, some are pastors of megachurches, some are youth pastors, some are pastors of cults, some are pastors of whatever group they supposedly have power over; while others are so-called prophets (Matthew 7:15), and some call themselves "apostles" (2 Corinthians 11:13), while others are book authors, some are musicians and singers, and others are in different categories. Some wolves are infiltrators for political cause or other reasons. Some wolves are money hungry, power hungry, control hungry and love the praise of men. Some wolves are even classified as "scholars" and "translate" the Bible into their own biased version. Wolves in churchianity have different ministries and they are often very persuasive public speakers. Read more...

Worldwide Church Of God--Modern Day Cult

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-08-04T00:00:43-07:00

by Van Robison The original Worldwide Church of God, founded by Herbert W. Armstrong no longer exists. It can't exist because the founder deceased at the age of about 93 or thereabouts in 1986. The Worldwide Church of God that now exists is under different leadership and espousing very different teachings from that of the original WWC. The infamous son of Herbert W. Armstrong is no longer living either. Originally, the Worldwide Church of God was known as "The Radio Church of God", which began broadcasting in 1934. Eventually this organization grew into a worldwide empire, with three "Bible" colleges, tens of thousands of church members, and publishers of "The Plain Truth Magazine" and also "The Good News Magazine." This church organization looked upon Herbert W. Armstrong as an appointed representative of God, much the same as Roman Catholics look to the Pope. In fact he was considered "the Apostle" of the Worldwide Church of God and also the supposed "end times Elijah", who was was suppose to restore all things, before the second coming of Jesus Christ. Read more...

The Foundation Of Life Is Not Your Local Church

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-08-01T00:01:13-07:00

by Van Robison Is your local church your spiritual watering hole, your spiritual oasis, and your spiritual bread? If you think this, then perhaps you have been listening to another voice. Jesus said the following about Himself:

John 14:6 "Jesus said unto him, I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life: no man comes to the Father, but by Me."
John 4:14 "But whosoever drinks of the Water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the Water that I shall give him shall be in him a Well of Water springing up into everlasting life." Read more...

Does God Smile Upon Preachers?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-07-28T00:03:11-07:00

by Van Robison For some He surely does. For others He no doubt does not. Would you say that Jesus Christ is pleased with the following customs and rituals of Christians and their human pastors?

Going to church on Saturday?
Going to church on Sunday?
Paying tithes to your local church?
Sitting in pews?
Spending money on physical buildings?
Steeples on top of church buildings?
Stained glass windows?
Wearing robes to preach?
Wearing robes to sing? Read more...

Widespread Fraud--In The Name Of Jesus Christ

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-07-24T00:29:35-07:00

by Van Robison

Matthew 24:5 "For MANY will come in my name, saying I am Christ; and SHALL DECEIVE many."
Matthew 7:15 "BEWARE of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves."
Matthew 24:11 "And MANY false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many."
1 John 4:1 "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because MANY false prophets are gone out into the world." Read more...

Disappointment With Preachers

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-07-21T19:39:28-07:00

by Van Robison My wife and I and some friends once traveled to a church that was perhaps a couple of hours away from our home, to hear a preacher who had a reputation for "raising the dead." This man spoke about some of the experiences he claims he had in his missionary work in Mexico and stated that something like fourteen people had been raised from the dead in his ministry. As he spoke, we all sat with a sense of awe at these supposed miraculous events. We were totally amazed and overwhelmed as he told of these people who had been "raised from the dead." During the service some people came in the door rolling a hospital-type bed with a man on it, who had what I heard was Lou Gehrig's Disease. The man was totally incapacitated and obviously needed a miraculous, supernatural healing miracle to restore his life. It would be safe to say that the loved ones of this man also must have believed that if a preacher could "raise people from the dead", then raising a sick man off a hospital bed would be a piece of cake. Read more...

Put Not Your Trust In Men

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-07-17T23:17:43-07:00

by Van Robison As believers in Jesus Christ, one of our greatest faults has been that of placing faith in pastors. It is the "pastors" who claim to have healing ministries, revivals, outpourings, anointings, direct contact with God, truth, and pastors generally lead people to believe that they are a cut above normal, average, or ordinary Christians. Many Christians have learned through bitter experience that the world is full of preachers, pastors and so-called prophets who are no more representatives of Jesus Christ than a charlatan. The Internet is inundated with websites dealing with spiritual abuse and the experiences of seekers of God from the backgrounds of many different churches. There are websites by ex-Mormons, ex-Jehovah Witnesses, ex-Catholics, ex-Baptists, ex-Pentecostals, ex-Church of Christ, ex-Worldwide Church of God and many more groups, for anyone who is curious enough to look at these resources. There are also many websites that expose many different cult groups that are in existence because of personal spiritual abuse from pastors and churches. Spiritual abuse is not uncommon and is very widespread. It comes not only from cult churches, but even from so called "mainstream" churches and pastors. Read more...

Partner With Jesus Christ--Without Money

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-07-12T00:04:28-07:00

by Van Robison In the world of churchianity it seems to be a standard to beg for money. Money begging is sometimes dressed up in fancy terminology such as "generous giving", or "the joy of giving" and other such colorful phrases. Almost all ministries, although not all, will have a slogan to "partner with us", or some form of money begging. Different "ministries" want money and will ask for it in different ways such as "donate", "donations", "giving", "partner with us", "contributions", "financial", "gifts", or some other phrase. Most "ministries" ask for money, although there are a few who do not. Read more...

The Purpose Driven Unchurched

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-07-08T00:09:12-07:00

by Van Robison Most ex-church goers are purpose driven unchurched. They were driven out of various churches because of spiritual abuse, or because they came to the conclusion that something about church was missing. In seeking answers and truth, many followers of Jesus Christ have found that--hey--Jesus Christ does not live in a box called "church." In fact seekers of Jesus Christ have found that they can have a relationship with Christ outside of church walls and barriers. It has dawned upon many that the real Shepherd and only Head of the Spiritual Body is Jesus Christ and not pastors or churches. Countless followers of Christ have come to the conclusion that serving God is not something done as dictated by denominations and church organizations. Many are using their talents to glorify Jesus Christ outside of Sunday and no longer "go to church". Read more...

Every Church Thinks They Have Truth

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-07-06T00:22:55-07:00

by Van Robison I have never known a church organization that believed that they didn't know truth. Virtually everyone has the idea that truth is what they believe and their consequent religious practices. Since all groups differ in some ways, it must be surmised that if what one group believes and practices differs from others, then the big question is which group really does have truth? Is it possible that truth is often times not really even the issue, but rather maintaining control, power, and the constant flow of money? Is it possible that power and money blind those who have power and money? Also, why are people very defensive about what they believe? Sometimes when people are challenged about what they believe, they become unapproachable. Read more...

Agreeable Sheep

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-07-04T20:55:06-07:00

This is a cute paper animation kit that you can download, print and assemble right in your very own home. It's free but you'll need to have Adobe Acrobat installed on your computer in order to open the file. (Acrobat is also free and available here.) Once assembled, just turn the crank to make the sheep nod its head up and down in agreement with everything you say. Makes a perfect gift for every church pastor! Download the PDF file here.

Religious Hucksters

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-07-03T00:03:02-07:00

by Van Robison I heard some clown on one of the religious church television stations say, "God told me before I came onto the program today that 120 people are going to send in a donation of $100 each." Yeah sure buddy, I bet you had a direct cell phone call from God on that one. The hucksters never cease to amaze me. How can anyone even begin to think that they are serving God by sending these frauds, hucksters, and charlatans their hard earned money? The parade of religious clowns never ceases from television and radio in our day and age. The money hungry parasites are forever proclaiming the name of "God" or the name of "Jesus Christ" as their validation for seed money. Read more...

Living In Fear

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-07-01T00:01:21-07:00

by Van Robison It is natural to have fears. People have fears about many things in life. In 1 John 4:18 it says, "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear: because fear has torment. He that fears is not made perfect in love." It goes without saying that our human fears torment our peace of mind, can cause us emotional and psychological problems, and cause us to even lose the ability to sleep. Fear can also cause physical sickness and even worse. In the church world, many people are subjected to fear and we can itemize many of those fears. Read more...

Church Is A Mirror Reflection Of How Men Perceive God

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-06-29T00:05:22-07:00

by Van Robison If we look in the mirror, we obviously see our own reflection. Churches of this world are a reflection of the thinking of the religious-minded. So then, churches reflect the thinking mostly of the leadership of those institutions. You might say that when a clergyman or pastor looks at himself in the church mirror, what he sees is his own thinking. Church is the image or mirror reflection of the pastors. The reason this is so is because without the professional clergy there would be no church buildings, no service conducted, no preaching service, no money collection, no weekly rituals, etcetera. Church is a reflection of how men perceive God. Church cannot possibly define God, His purpose or His character. The one element that God looks upon is the HEART. It is impossible to believe that the most intelligent being in the universe is somehow pleased and overjoyed with human rituals, ceremonies, patterns, physical structures made of brick, stone, wood and mortar, and the customs and traditions of the religious-minded. Read more...

Qualifications for Pulpit Ministry

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-06-25T00:01:15-07:00

More videos from the Lessons in Christianity series can be viewed at Family Room Media.

Do Youth Pastors Have Authority Over Teens?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-06-26T00:03:48-07:00

by Van Robison First, let it be said that in the New Testament there is no such function as "youth pastor" ever mentioned. There is certainly nothing wrong with young people getting together, and having wholesome fun activities that young people love to enjoy. On the other hand, to place teenagers "under authority" to so-called youth pastors can be an affront to parents. Teaching and rearing children is the God-given responsibility of parents, including spiritual education. When my two daughters were teenagers, they were involved in a non-denominational, charismatic type church in which they engaged in youth activities and teachings under the "authority" of a youth pastor. Admittedly they made some good friendships, enjoyed fun times and fellowship. On the other hand, as parents my wife and I were frustrated with the idea that the "youth pastor" considered himself as their spiritual authority and teacher. This was cause for some friction and confrontation that we think should have been unnecessary. As parents, we do not consider any "youth pastor" as the spiritual teacher or spiritual authority over our teens. Read more...

Emphasizing Paul Over Christ

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-06-22T00:05:04-07:00

by Van Robison From my personal perspective, it seems somewhat amazing that Paul, who wrote a number of letters which we believe to be a vital part of the New Testament, is quoted, emphasized, and elevated to a status of "super apostle". Paul like Peter, without Jesus Christ is neither here nor there, which is to say, they are nobody apart from Christ. As Christians we seem to believe that Paul was infallible, and if indeed the Holy Spirit did inspire every word Paul penned, then his writings would be inerrant. It is a certainty that Paul wrote nothing in the English language. Therefore whether Paul's writings are totally accurate in translation is a question mark. The commission given by Jesus Christ to His disciples, was to convey Jesus Christ and the teachings of Christ to others, and at the same time, heal the sick and cast out unclean spirits (Matthew 10:1). There is no question from what we read in the New Testament, that Paul was an extremely abusive man, who thought nothing of force and violence (Acts 8:1-3) against the followers of Jesus Christ up to the time of his conversion. In today's church world, there is hardly any doubt that many preachers defer to Paul in many ways, and think more highly of Paul than Paul thought of himself. Read more...

Church In The Garden Of Eden

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-06-20T00:01:38-07:00

by Van Robison In the beginning there was a serpent (Genesis 3). While the Bible does not put it in these terms, the serpent appears to have had "church". During church the serpent beguiled Eve with glitter and glamor. He made promises to Eve that if she would partake, she would be wise. Much like many preachers today who preach the glamorous "prosperity gospel". And like many preachers today who promise that if you sew a seed into their bank account, you will reap a 10-fold or 100-fold return on your spiritual investment. Eve was so overcome by the persuasive and charismatic personality of the serpent-preacher that she was hypnotized by his flatteries. Eve dutifully seduced her husband with the her own charms and he could not resist, and he likewise partook of the serpent's deceptions. Read more...

Darkness Disguised As Light

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-06-18T00:18:09-07:00

by Van Robison Falsehood proclaims it is truth. Darkness is the great pretender of being light. Church says "I am the Way", but that is a lie. Many pastors prey on childish adults for money. Evil says I am good. The spiritually blind cannot see truth. Satan wants to be God. Many rulers lack wisdom. Sheep often follow wolves disguised as shepherds. Those who love to control others are insecure. Leaders flatter themselves with self importance. The love of money is the downfall of many preachers. The wicked hate exposure. Rulers think they are infallible. False prophets are liars. Using the name of Jesus Christ is no guarantee of truth. Read more...

The Rock House Of Jesus Christ

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-06-16T00:00:59-07:00

by Van Robison Jesus Christ is the Chief Cornerstone of His Rock House. Without Him there would be no building. In this case, the building is not made with hands, but is a spiritual entity. Not only is Jesus Christ the Foundation, but He is also the one and only Head of His Rock House--the Body. All man-made institutions are made of shifting sands, which is to say that they will all eventually crumble. There is nothing eternal or everlasting about man-conceived organizations and institutions. Kingdoms rise and kingdoms fall in the realm of human beings, but the Kingdom of God is everlasting. Read more...

The University of Professor Jesus Christ

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-06-14T01:13:46-07:00

by Van Robison The world in which we live is highly impressed with "education". Many companies and corporations require some college education in order to work in a specific endeavor. I believe that society would be far better off if it totally dumped the college and university system we know, in favor of technical and trade school education, along with on-the-job training. There is much about the college world that is unessential "education", and that is a waste of human time and money, as well as the fact that some of the so-called education is more social engineering and indoctrination than useful knowledge. Worldly education is highly controlled and is therefore often an agency of politics, political indoctrination, humanist indoctrination, and manipulated by behind-the-scenes powers that control "education" for money, profits, and the manipulation of human beings into certain kinds of thinking. Read more...

Shadows

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-06-12T00:24:26-07:00

by Van Robison A human shadow is not the person. A human shadow is also dark and not light. A shadow does not give detail, only an outline. You cannot catch your own shadow because it is always elusive. When you chase your shadow it always moves away with you out of grasp. Read more...

Church As Seen From A Distance

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-06-08T19:47:11-07:00

by Van Robison Following Jesus Christ and going to church are not one and the same. Church leaders are spiritually blind, because Jesus Christ did not found churchianity. He didn't teach "take up your cross and go to church", or "take up your cross and follow pastors." What Jesus Christ founded was spiritual in nature, not carnal churchianity. Jesus came teaching principles to live by 24/7 and He exemplified His teachings by living those principles Himself. On the other hand churchianity teaches institutionalism. Institutionalism says--build physical buildings, submit to pastors, sit in pews, go to church, have organizational control over the people, and many other customs and traditions of men. Read more...

Saltless Preachers--Candles Without Light

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-06-03T00:45:24-07:00

by Van Robison Jesus told His disciples in Matthew 5:13-16 that they were the salt of the earth. He also said they are the light of the world, and that they were likened to candles giving light. He said to let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven. The followers of Jesus Christ are to be salt in the earth and a light in the world. Unfortunately many preachers today are saltless and their candle has no light, because their real interest in life is having power and control over others, as well as majoring on money--their real god. Some preachers, especially some money-obsessed television preachers use the name of Jesus Christ for personal gain. They come as angels of light, but in reality are wolves in sheep's clothing. Read more...

Nuts and Bolts of Spiritual Abuse

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-05-27T23:01:17-07:00

by Van Robison In the beginning of human creation, God the Creator offered Adam and Eve no mediator or go between, between God Himself and Adam and Eve. They had direct contact and communication with their Creator. There were no human priests, no human pastors, nor any professional clergy and no church organization. Adam and Eve were thrust from the presence of Almighty God because they listened to the voice of a wolf in sheep's clothing. They did what God said not to do, and the penalty was separation from God which equates to death. When Adam and Eve were cast out from the Garden of Eden, it was their IMAGINATION that had gotten them into trouble. That is to say that what they thought was right, was actually wrong. This is human nature. Proverbs 14:12 "There is a way which SEEMS RIGHT unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." From the time of Adam and Eve, virtually all human beings have what we call human nature. We call it the natural mind of man, and which mind does not understand the things of the Spirit of God (1 Corinthians 2:14). Read more...

The Myth of Doing Church

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-05-20T21:41:57-07:00

by Van Robison The great role model for the life of human beings is none other than Jesus Christ. The purpose of Peter, Paul, and all the other apostles had nothing to do with making personal disciples to follow Peter or Paul, but their purpose was to convey to others the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Paul is not Jesus Christ. Paul was no different than any one of us, other than the fact that he says he was appointed to take the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the Gentile world. Paul had no intention of establishing sectarianism. The church world today is greatly divided and very sectarian. God is not divided, nor is He the author of confusion, but to say that the church world is not in confusion is to have one's head buried in the sand. Read more...

Manipulated Christians

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-05-14T00:02:09-07:00

by Van Robison Most of us as Christians have heard all our lives "Jesus is coming are you ready", or "Jesus is coming soon", and "we are living in the end times", and similar phrases that have shaped our thinking. After many years, any thinking person has to wonder exactly when is "soon" that Jesus is coming again? One church I was associated with many years ago published a booklet entitled 1975 in Prophecy!, which led the readers to believe that "end time" events would come to a basic conclusion around the year 1975. The author now deceased, who was Herbert W. Armstrong was dead wrong. Like countless other "prophets" who have made specific predictions, and who set dates for specified events, Herbert W. Armstrong misled many people. Read more...

Twisted Scriptures excerpts

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-05-04T22:39:37-07:00

Here are some excerpts from Mary Alice Chrnalogar's book, Twisted Scriptures: A Path to Freedom from Abusive Churches. The website is old, but you can still access excerpts from the first seven chapters:

Perpetual Money Machine--Churchianity

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-05-07T00:30:49-07:00

by Van Robison Jesus Christ never taught that the forgiveness of sins, the gift of the Holy Spirit, salvation through Christ, or eternal life are purchased with money--ever. This is very easy for anyone to verify by reading the teachings of Jesus Christ in the four Gospels. We are expected to multiply our talents and not to bury what God has given us, but Christ never took up tithes and offerings during His earthly ministry. The church world is very wealthy in material goods. Some massive church organizations are worth billions upon billions of dollars in land, temples, church buildings and endless investments. Some churches are not wealthy, but nevertheless money is an endless object. Read more...

Pied Pipers in the Pulpit

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-05-02T21:59:18-07:00

by Van Robison There was something magical about the flute playing of the Pied Piper. With his magical flute the children of the town of Hamelin followed the Pied Piper out of town where it is said that an underground passage opened up that led to Transylvania. Much like the magic of the Pied Piper of legend, our world today has many, many Pied Pipers. Pied Pipers play their magical flutes and the people cannot resist. In the world of Pied Pipers, the instruments are varied and the magical music played is all produced to seduce. Read more...

Ice Cream Churches and Velcro Christians

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-04-27T00:11:49-07:00

by Van Robison Most people love ice cream and it obviously comes in more than thirty-one flavors. Churches, like ice cream, are often very appealing to the senses. It could be that your church is strawberry in flavor, or perhaps vanilla, or maybe butterscotch, or one of many other varieties of ice cream churches. The flavors are endless. What is it about ice cream churches that attracts millions of people the world over? And why do believers in ice cream churches stick to their pastors, priests, clergy, churches and denominations like Velcro? Read more...

Spiritual Abuse videos

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-04-18T01:33:40-07:00

There is a 3-part lecture video series on spiritual abuse by Jeff VanVonderen over at the Recovery University website. According to the website, "These presentations are part of a 10-part course entitled Breaking the Silence on Spiritual Abuse. The series includes presentations by Dave Johnson and Lynn Heitritter." You can access the videos by clicking the links below:

Lecture 1: Healthy and Abusive Spiritual Dynamics [55 min]
Lecture 2: The Abusive Religious System [59 min]
Lecture 3: How We Get Hooked [60 min]

License to Preach

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-04-23T00:07:46-07:00

by Van Robison In the world we live in, the "license" is a key element of our culture. For whatever reason, in our society we are led to believe that having a "license" is a guarantee of being professional, qualified, legal and certified. We are led to believe that a license or a permit is necessary for almost everything under the sun such as: license to be a doctor, license to be a lawyer, license to be a "pastor", etc. The list is endless in the realm of life on earth. To believe that having a college education is a guarantee of professional service is too ludicrous to believe. Read more...

The Day Television Preachers Face Jesus Christ

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-04-13T00:10:07-07:00

by Van Robison Many Christians are deceived by charlatans whose entire lives seem to revolve around begging for money on public television. There seems to be an endless parade of willing preachers whose whole lives are spent speaking falsehoods into the ears of anyone willing to listen. The fund raising never ends. Often times, the money-begging is accompanied by singing, music, and celebrity preachers quoting specific scriptures, while never mentioning many other scriptures dealing with money-matters. Not only do some forever beg for money, but others are forever telling the public about some supposed "Biblical prophecy" that they think is being fulfilled or about to be fulfilled. Read more...

Spiritual Abuse

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-04-11T00:00:44-07:00

Here is an excellent eight-part article on spiritual abuse as posted by Grace at the Emerging Grace weblog:

Prophets and Pastors of Profit-$$$

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-04-12T00:01:09-07:00

by Van Robison Many Christians, even though with innocent intentions, are very gullible, naive, and even childish in the fact that they have no discernment about wolves in sheep's clothing. All too often, seekers of God are falling prey to celebrity personalities, and they swoon over famous name preachers for no other reason than these individuals have a lofty title such as "senior pastor", "prophet", "prophetess", "evangelist", "reverend", "doctor", "bishop", or some other clergy name. Those titles in themselves mean absolutely nothing, but many Christians think that anyone who has such a title is: somehow "important", above the common person, especially anointed, has authority over the sheep, and is Jesus Christ ordained. Read more...

Rubber Band Scriptures

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-04-09T00:42:08-07:00

by Van Robison Volumes could be written on Bible scriptures that are taken out of context and stretched like rubber bands to comply with the interpretation of preachers and church institutions. If Bible readers all understood scriptures exactly alike, there could hardly be hundreds or thousands of denominations, and other church institutions that have their own personal interpretations of scriptures. It will never be otherwise. Not even among so-called scholars and Bible theologians is there agreement on many Bible related issues. Read more...

The Illusion Of Jesus Christ As Represented By Institutional Churches

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-04-05T00:11:02-07:00

by Van Robison As a young man, many years ago I was caught up in the Worldwide Church of God/Ambassador College/Herbert W. Armstrong organization, which was headquartered in Pasadena, California. What I thought was "God's true church" was only an illusion -- a mirage. In this man-made organization, we were taught Old Testament doctrines such as keeping the Saturday Sabbath, keeping 1st, 2nd, and 3rd tithes, observing annual "Holydays" such as "Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, and the Feast of Tabernacles". We were also subjected to authoritarianism and hierarchy. Clearly, the church "authorities" did everyone's thinking. Read more...

The Death of the "Goofy" Church

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-04-04T00:01:28-07:00

by James Robert Kessler "Cheer up church, you're worse off then you think." That one line gets to the heart of the church today. Until recently, I was heavily involved in the Charismatic movement and the miracles of: gold fillings, spiritual fogs, fire tunnels, and slain in the spirit. I have even witnessed people attempting to be healed by having musical instruments played over them. I was part of the "what made me feel good and appealed to my senses" movement. The sensual gospel of the highest highs, on Jesus of course, and the "name it and claim it" crowd of wealth and prosperity. Read more...

Whose Clone Are You?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-04-03T00:10:06-07:00

by Van Robison Jesus Christ said "My sheep hear my voice, I know them, and THEY FOLLOW ME". If you are a "Baptist", then you are a Baptist clone. If you are a "United Methodist", then you are a United Methodist clone. If you are a "Roman Catholic", then you are a Roman Catholic clone. If you sit in a megachurch, then you are a clone of that megachurch's teachings. Read more...

From Vague to Vagabond to Victory -- A Testimony of a Christian

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-03-28T23:18:30-07:00

by Roderick Edwards One day, he was at the pulpit and said, "It is not enough to read your Bible but you must be under the preaching of a pastor." This was too much to bear. This was supposed to be a "Reformed" church where the heritage hails from those who had thrown off the Papal system, and here is this guy installing a new kind of pope -- called pastors. Of course, I didn't stand up and shout "You're Wrong!" (though looking back perhaps I should have). Rather, I wrote a letter to the entire congregation and to the elders as to why that statement is not only wrong but very dangerous and goes against everything it means to be Reformed. This was not received well. Read more...

Broken Cisterns

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-03-23T23:41:24-07:00

by Van Robison Institutional churches are broken cisterns--they don't hold water. Living water is Jesus Christ by His own words (John 4:10-14). If you thirst, the never ending fountain and natural spring of living water is Jesus Christ. Spiritual living water is refreshing, encouraging, life giving, everlasting, and quenches the spiritual thirst with satisfaction. When you imbibe of the living waters of Jesus Christ, you will be like dancing waters and leaping life. Living waters is animated. Living waters is energetic. Living waters produces euphoria. Living waters gives no headaches. Living waters makes you smile. Living waters gives life eternal. Read more...

Merchandising Jesus Christ

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-03-20T00:13:13-07:00

by Van Robison Money is the obsession with religious leaders. There is no end to the organizations who promote "generous giving", tithing and merchandising material objects to willing buyers. While freewill giving is a voluntary decision of the individual, and is between the individual and God (Matthew 6:1-4), the promoters of "generous giving" are in the business of money--not Jesus Christ. The life and teachings of Jesus Christ did not zero in on an obsession with making money as it is with modern day churchianity. Read more...

The Genetically Engineered Church

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-03-07T01:36:24-08:00

by Van Robison Has the Church been modified with a spiritual genetic tampering? Many Christians the world over have been asking this question. What is genetic engineering? In the physical realm of life, it is said that genetic engineering is a technique used by scientists to change the DNA of living organisms. It is also said that through genetic manipulation, scientists can alter plants, animals and micro-organisms in a way that does not occur naturally. It is also believed that these modified organisms can spread through nature and interbreed with natural organisms thereby contaminating the environment we live in. Once released into the world we live in, those modified organisms cannot be recalled. Who can really say what the future holds for genetic engineering in the very food we eat? While the public is led to believe that genetic engineering is for the benefit of mankind, there is always the possibility that the real motives for tampering with nature have to do with profits--$$$. Read more...

Jesus Has Left The Building

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-03-04T23:52:35-08:00

Book review of Paul Vieira's Jesus Has Left The Building by Paul Sue Vieira's book is about his personal journey out of "institutional Christianity" to a more dynamic and fluid missional way of "doing church". In his own words,

This book reflects my personal and very painful journey away from institutional Christianity. What has driven my quest for a new experience with 'church' has been a growing dissatisfaction with the alarming contrast between what I read in the gospels and the Christianity that I have known. (13)

The book begins with some biographical details. Vieira was born into a nominally Catholic family. Eventually, the grace of God touched the whole family and they began to worship and study the Bible together as a family. In his newborn zeal, young Paul began to invite his friends over for prayer and mutual edification. God used this group of young people to spread the fire of revival in his neighborhood. Read more...

The Pastor Chasers

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-02-03T00:52:47-08:00

by Van Robison Christians, even though with innocent and good hearted intentions, are pastor chasers. Pastors are not Jesus Christ, they only give the pretense of being God. This would be denied by pastors, but nevertheless they want personal followers, and lots of them. Christians chase pastors all over the country and into pastors "camp meetings", "revivals", "purpose driven churches" "seminars", and into the church buildings, cathedrals, and temples of "worship". For millions of Christians, life revolves around pastors. Christians seem to be unable to function in life without pastors doing their thinking. Pastors are idols in the lives of countless millions. Christians are addicted to pastors, because even though they would deny it, they think pastors are the key to salvation, the way to eternal life. Read more...

Master Charge and Visa Preachers

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-01-16T03:29:18-08:00

by Van Robison (1) "Sow your seed my brothers and sisters, in fact sow an uncommon seed and reap an uncommon harvest." (2) "Send in your prayer request, and we will send you a bottle of 'anointed' water from Galilee. Please send donation." (3) "Buy this 'end times, left behind' book and you will be blessed. We take Master Charge or Visa." (4) "God has told me that 1,000 of you good saints are going to send $1,000 each to this ministry." (5) "God told me that if I did not receive $12-million immediately, my ministry would fold. We take credit cards." Read more...

More Things Jesus Christ Did Not Say...

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-01-15T00:32:44-08:00

by Van Robison Here are some more common beliefs among professing "Christians" that Jesus Christ never stated in any of His teachings: (1) You will be raptured. (2) The wages of sin is ever-burning torture in hell fire. (3) Sowing seed money will make you prosperous. (4) The Bible was inspired in English. (5) Professional clergy are your rulers. Read more...

Modern Church Practices Not Found in the Teachings of Jesus Christ in the Four Gospels

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-01-12T00:01:23-08:00

by Van Robison The list of church traditions which are universal in the world of churches, clergy, church organizations, church schools and colleges, and church related organizations is endless. This particular listing of church traditions are common in the world of "Christianity", but NONE of which were ever taught by Jesus Christ Himself, in the four Gospels. Read more...

False Christian Assumptions

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-01-08T18:58:48-08:00

by Van Robison (1) Salvation is founded upon going to church. (2) Material blessings hinge on tithing. (3) Jesus Christ sanctions wars for human governments. (4) Clergy churches should be regulated by tax exempt status. (5) Followers of Jesus Christ should support television preachers. Read more...

Jesus Christ Did Not Say...

info@batteredsheep.com — 2007-01-03T05:07:09-08:00

by Van Robison (1) "Blessed are those who go to church". (2) "Submit to the authority of pastors". (3) "The Bible is infallible". (4) "The apostle Paul is inerrant". (5) "The apostle Paul is the Way, the Truth, and the Life". (6) "Salvation is bought with tithes". Read more...

Pastoral Authority Within The Church

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-12-11T23:55:17-08:00

Roderick from The Kingdom Come has conducted an audio interview of our good friend Jon Zens (author of many articles on this website and Editor-in-Chief of Searching Together). Go to their website and listen to the interview or click the play button on the player below:
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Pastors, Prophets, Priests and Scribes in the Old Testament

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-11-19T16:11:42-08:00

by Van Robison Jeremiah 2:8 "The PRIESTS said not, Where is the Lord? and they that handle the law knew me not: the PASTORS also transgressed against me, and the PROPHETS prophesied by Ba'al, and walked after things that do not profit." Jeremiah 5:31 "The PROPHETS prophesy falsely, and the PRIESTS bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so; and what will you do in the end thereof?" Read more...

Christian Truth Wars

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-11-12T13:39:03-08:00

by Van Robison "Christian truth wars" have been raging for thousands of years. Christian leaders have grouped people into two basic classes of people, which are the leaders, and the followers. The leaders lead their followers down many different paths of beliefs. Some leaders claim they are Roman Catholics, while others claim they are Baptist, Mormon, Jehovah Witnesses, Methodists, Worldwide Church of God, Pentecostal, Charismatic, or name your brand and flavor. Christian truth wars are alive and well, and forever advancing through life, vacuuming up as many followers as possible. I am right, and you are wrong is the Christian truth war motto. Many claim that if you do not believe and accept what they teach, then you are certainly "going to hell". Leaders keep people captive by making followers afraid, or by fear, or by the promise of blessings for doing as they say. Read more...

The "True" Cost of Leadership

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-11-07T12:47:41-08:00

by Ron and Karen Schwartz When it came to the proof of his ministry, Paul didn't point to the assets of His ministry. For instance, he did not point to the size of his church or the offering amounts he brought in. He did not point to the number of churches he started or to the number of conventions, seminars, or revivals he held. He did not point to the number of students he had or how many books and articles he published. Instead, it is interesting that he pointed to the cost and price he paid personally, not to benefits he reaped. Read more...

The Bible and Spiritual Abuse

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-09-01T02:37:54-07:00

by Ron Henzel It is safe to say that we live in a culture which frequently (and ironically) abuses the word "abuse." One of the most common ways that this has been done has been by incorrectly locating the meaning of the word "abuse" in "the perception of mistreatment," rather than mistreatment itself. During the 1980s and into the '90s, the notion that subjective perceptions, rather than objective behavior, determine whether something was "abusive" succeeded in infiltrating academia, the media, and even our judicial system to an astonishing degree. Read more...

Discussion forums

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-08-15T23:20:39-07:00

Just a reminder that we have a discussion forum where you can join and discuss any issues relating to spiritual abuse, legalism, authoritarianism, leadership abuse, etc. It's a place where you can ask a question, seek advice, discuss any of the articles or stories on our website, make announcements, and more. We had a forums section a couple of years ago but decided to pull it for various reasons. This time we are committed to keeping this feature for the long term, so please spread the word about it and join in the discussions! Enter forums

Eight Signs of Immature, Carnal Christians

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-08-11T22:18:25-07:00

by Greg Gibson I have an embarrassing personal confession to make. For the first 10 years of my Christian life, I was an immature, carnal Christian... "How," you wonder? The truth is, I followed men. What I mean is that I couldn't think for myself. You see, I gave my devotion and mind to men, a movement, and a system. Then I unconsciously let them do my thinking for me. Was it the Church of Rome, the Jehovah's Witnesses, or the Mormons? No, believe it or not, it was a group of evangelicals, who preached the gospel of Jesus Christ. Read more...

What Do Churches and Cults Have in Common?

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-07-17T21:40:38-07:00

by Clete Hux (Adapted from The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse by David Johnson and Jeff VanVonderen). The authors of the above book have done the body of Christ a great service. Through their discernment and collective experiences, they have distinguished seven characteristics which can be found in all spiritually abusive systems. Read more...

The Problems of the Covenanted Reformed Presbyterian Church of Manawa, Wisconsin and Brian Schwertley

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-04-14T01:56:40-07:00

Let me introduce my self, I am Fredrick Edward Fleming and I was going to the Covenanted Reformed Presbyterian Church of Manawa, Wisconsin. What I am trying to do is set forth the record of what happened there. Because of the problems, my wife and I left that church and are in the process of setting up a new church in Antigo, Wisconsin (Antigo Presbyterian Church). When I was living in River Falls Wisconsin, I heard that Brian Schwertley might be called to pastor the church. I had never met Brian, however I had been in touch with some of his writings and heard him on the Internet and was very encouraged to come to this church, if they called Brian. I made several trips to Manawa, I also told my friends about the calling of Brian. I believe it was about August of 2004 that they finally installed Brian as pastor of the church. I made arrangements to move from River Falls to Manawa. Read more...

New design

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-04-03T14:48:07-07:00

As you may have noticed, the website has undergone a new design, the first major one in five years. A new discussion forum has been added, and readers may now subscribe to the site via the RSS feed. Let us know what you think!

My Own Story

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-03-31T13:45:22-08:00

by Gary Parsons In 1977, after serving only two years full time in the work, I was asked by the Committee to leave the work, with no reasons being given for the decision. The next 12 months of my life were the most difficult I'd ever been through up until that point of time. Read more...

Defence Against Power Abuse in God's Church (Part 3)

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-03-30T03:43:52-08:00

by J and J Maring Bitterness and resentment certainly took hold of us. Mostly though we were incredibly sad and could not understand why this was taking place. More so that it was "possible". We had not ever had dealings like this or any criticism from a church council. Instead of having a guiding, leading council, we had an abusive one. Individually we were sure however that not all elders would agree with matters. Read more...

The Journey Out

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-03-29T14:42:40-08:00

by Mrs. John Austin We received a letter stating that John could: die, be excommunicated, or, if the elders chose, they could release him to membership in another church. However, John was told by the elder whom he telephoned that the elders would only consider releasing him if he were to "repent from the sin and rebellion of vow-breaking" and place himself under their complete authority without reservation. He was told that if he did, it could take up to a few years for release. John could not do this as it would cause him to violate Scripture. He believed that the teachings and practices were a strong negative environment for our children, and that it was his responsibility before Christ to protect his family from this. Read more...

R.C. Sproul, Jr. Defrocked

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-03-26T12:40:41-08:00

by Peter Kershaw Concerning the situation of the Austin family and others, here is an update. In short, R.C. Sproul, Jr. has been defrocked. Read more...

Legal issues disrupt life for church community

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-03-23T20:39:16-08:00

(Christian Week, Vol. 19, No. 21; Jan. 20, 2006) Church disputes are a harsh reality for many congregations across Canada and the ramifications can be far reaching when problems escalate into the legal sphere. Such was the case for South Calgary Community Church (SCCC), a growing Baptist congregation with plans for expansion. When some former members alleged they were victims of spiritual abuse at the hands of church leadership, lawyers got involved and the situation got messy. Last April, Barry and Jennifer Pendergast set up a website detailing their experience at SCCC, several months after leaving the church where they were involved in a lawsuit against the board of elders who had revoked their membership not once, but twice. Read more...

Holy Terror

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-03-21T19:36:20-08:00

by Candis McLean When Barry and Jennifer Pendergast found themselves being harassed by their beloved church, they never felt more alone. They soon discovered there were thousands of victims of church abuse just like them. Read more...

Recovering from Church Abuse

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-03-18T11:43:34-08:00

by Len Hjalmarson Millions of people have been abused, hurt, disillusioned, and disappointed by organized religion. Some of these are even suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Read more...

Legalists and Authoritarian Zealots (PDF)

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-02-17T11:22:22-08:00

by Richard Hudson Run from any teaching that criticizes questioning. Run faster from any teaching that advocates "submission" to religious authority as submission to Christ. Download PDF article

No Substitutes

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-02-15T20:20:14-08:00

by Van Robison While many people struggle with issues dealing with the institutional churches, there is a flip side to this issue, and it is the fact that multitudes of Christians are leaving churchianity forever. Not because they have given up on Jesus Christ, but to the contrary, because they want to follow Jesus Christ instead of men and the organizations of men. Read more...

Diversity: A Sign of Genuine Unity (PDF)

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-01-18T21:09:23-08:00

(Author unknown) Isn't it easier to get along with someone who thinks just like we do? Isn't life easier when we are able to always agree with others around us? So the opposite of diversity, which is conformity, is definitely the easier path. It is not a difficult thing to love those who agree with us. Actually, such love is simply an extension of "self-love." This is so because we have love for the other person because they possess the same thoughts or qualities as ourselves. This self-love extension comes rather naturally for each of us. It takes little effort on our part. However, such relationships really do not challenge us to broaden our expression of the Christian qualities of long-suffering, forgiveness, understanding, humility, and most importantly--love. Download PDF article

A Look at the Modern Practice of Church Membership

info@batteredsheep.com — 2006-01-22T01:59:17-08:00

by Jamon S.R. Sorrells If a person says, "I am a member of 'such-and-such' church," what do they mean? What constitutes being a 'member' of a local assembly? Is our modern day practice of local church 'membership' ordained by God, or instituted by man? What are the advantages to our modern day practice of church 'membership'? Are there any drawbacks? Should believing 'members' of a local assembly, and believing 'non-members' of the same assembly, be treated differently? Should 'membership' have its privileges? These are some of the questions I wish to explore in this article. Read more...