Questions and Answers

Note: Exiters have had the Bible used on them in order to control, coerce, exploit and manipulate them. In many cases the Scriptures were taken out of context and twisted. The following information is listed for those who have expressed an interest in these subjects. Sorting through one's personal beliefs after exiting a high demand group takes much time.

Aren't we supposed to keep the Law?

Is it necessary to keep the O.T. Holy Days?

Doesn't keeping the Ten Commandments play a part in salvation?

Is it essential that we keep the Sabbath?

If what HWA taught was false, should we go back to observing "pagan" holidays?

How can I observe Passover if I've left the group?

What about not forsaking the assembling together?

Can we ever lose our salvation?

Can I commit the unpardonable sin?

How can I be saved?

What is the gospel?

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Miscellaneous Questions:

Where do I find the one true church?

How do I tell others I was in a cult?

If Christianity is true, why are there so many denominations?

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Questions About Worldwide Church of God:

Has WCG whitewashed Herbert W. Armstrong?

During their doctrinal changes, WCG added more contradictions to the confusion by saying that HWA was a "sincere Christian," "made some mistakes, "didn't completely understand the Bible," had a "lack of theological education" (Charisma and Christian Life Magazine, 1996) which led to "wrong interpretations," held "unusual beliefs," "unusual views," and "unorthodox doctrines" but...."was a minister of Jesus Christ" and "devoted to Christ." (March 7, 1995 Worldwide News, Vol. XXIII, NO.5, p. 3). In April 1995 the leaders said that they "regarded HWA as a minister of Jesus Christ" and "do not believe he needs to be condemned." (MacGregor Ministries, News & Views, p. 4) Then on 4-30-96 and 5-1-96 Joseph Tkach Jr. was interviewed on D. James Kennedy's Christian radio program Truths that Transform and stated that Herbert Armstrong was a "very sincere Christian who was dedicated to Christ." (WCG's 1998 book Transformed by Christ: a Brief History of the WCG includes such statements. Read ESN article: Transformed by Christ (A Review of Worldwide Church of God's Book.) WCG stated: "Mr. Armstrong's greatest legacy is his commitment to live by every word of God - to believe the Bible and faithfully obey its teachings." ("Where We Have Been; Where We Are Going," Welcome to our Fellowship, 1995, 1999.) Joseph Tkach Jr. said: "Herbert Armstrong, in spite of errors he taught, had a high view of Scripture." (Interview of Joseph Tkach at the January 1997 National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) Convention.) Joseph Tkach, speaking to an audience from the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches in Quezon City, Philippines in 2006 said, "Mr. Armstrong, a sincere Christian, unwittingly made some mistakes."

Yet Herbert W. Armstrong stated, "Christ is not the gospel. Believing on Christ is not believing the gospel." (Voice clip of HWA giving a Bible Study and marking Buck Taylor; heard on pt. 2 of: "My Story" by C. Wayne Cole, 5-19-79)

Deception Surrounding Worldwide Church of God Changes (covers how Tkach Jr. said the source of the changes were Herbert Armstrong himself and also how Tkach Sr. said that HWA "changed his mind" before he died in regard to what he previously taught)

Neil Earle Whitewashes Herbert Armstrong

Why are you critical of the new WCG?

In order to be discerning, one needs to look not only at the roots and fruits of an organization and its leaders, but the methods used in making their changes. If we see that it is necessary for leaders to cover up the sins of the founder, focusing mainly on his "doctrinal wrongs," to whitewash him by using history revision and twisting of facts, and to discount and denigrate any who would speak up and expose these things, then we are seeing the same abusive methods that the old WCG has always resorted to. It should also raise a big question in our minds as to why any would want to stay connected to such a "church" and not instead remove themselves as far away as they can. This is not to say that there are not individual congregations who are unaware of the facts about WCG and who believe they are sincerely trying to serve Christ and their brethren. But a question again is, why do they find it necessary to remain tied to a HQ that has the job of imparting to their members their belief system, their discipleship training, their direction, etc.? Why have these people not broken free and formed completely independent Christian churches? Why are they still sending their tithes and offerings to HQ? Would it have anything to do with their feeling comfortable staying in the same place and being instructed as to what to do? Do these members still see Worldwide Church of God (HQ) as "their church"? Have their leaders somehow made them believe that "God did something special with us"?

Along with all this, WCG is now embracing New Age Teachers and philosophies (although in their double-talk and ambivalence they will deny it). Read: Letter to Worldwide Church of God, Philippines (On Apostasy--A Radical Proposal).

While we have covered these issues in many places on our site, especially our Research Info on WCG, it is important for members to think for themselves instead of going along with what they've always been told by their leaders. It is also important for them to understand that mind control was used on them.

Do any cultic mentalities remain in the present WCG?

There have been reports/testimonies (even since 2009) that there are still problems with cultic mentalities and mindsets (several are posted on our site). This has especially shown itself in regard to how former members have been treated when they attempted to confront WCG leaders or ministers with abuses or errors. Edgardo Meneses, who wrote hundreds of letters to HQ and to many WCG ministers, is a case in point (Read: Last Wake-up Call to Joseph Tkach Jr.)

In addition, there are still members in WCG, especially overseas, who are secretly holding to HWA and his doctrines (with an accompanying cultic mindset), and who say they are "waiting until God changes the church," and many other congregations in Europe are still "traditional" (holding to the old HWA doctrines. Other WCG members we have been in touch with in the U.S. continue to talk about "changing their attitude," "praying about their attitude" (i. e., if they get angry) and "acting out behavior which is the opposite of how they feel." These are some of the same mind manipulating methods members were taught to use on themselves before the new changes.

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Questions About Herbert W. Armstrong:

Haven't HWA's prophecies just not come to pass yet?

This is an excuse which certain ministers in some of the WCG splinter groups (i.e., Church of the Great God, Philadelphia Church of God, The Church of God-PKG, etc.) use. The argument is that, given enough time, all the prophecies (or "predictions") which HWA gave will eventually come to pass. It was HWA himself that first said only his "timing was wrong"--and this after giving 21+ prophetic failures during the 1930's and 40's. (I supposed we could say Ellen G. White's timing was off also--by 150 years plus.) What these ministers do not tell their members is that the prophets in O.T. times not only prophesied what was coming in the future, but they told what was going to happen locally in the immediate future. This was how people knew whether someone qualified as a true prophet of God. The local event had to transpire exactly as it was predicted. When it did, the people knew it was a true prophet compared to a false prophet.

Did Herbert W. Armstrong Really Set Dates?

Memories of Petra (shows how members excused false prophecies)

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Questions About Philadelphia Church of God:

Is PCG now the Laodicean church?

A number of members have been exiting the PCG, labeling it the "Laodicean church." Some reasons for believing this are because Flurry has said PCG has riches, wealth and "has it all" ("To Him Who Conquers," February 24, 2001 sermon), yet is not "rich spiritually." However, PCG cannot be considered a N. T. Christian church, as it has the identifying marks of an exploitive, abusive group. These organizations use "church" as a front. This is where many former members of PCG have become mixed up and sadly deceived. Hence they often exit PCG and go into another offshoot that may not be as destructive as PCG, but will nevertheless exploit and control them and continue to deceive them concerning Herbert Armstrong.

Where Do I Find the "One True Church"?

Understanding What a Cult is

Why does PCG emphasize the government of God? [Note: the phrase "government of God" is also used in other controlling WCG/PCG splinter groups]

"Government of God" are words which are intended to connect with the group's leader and its headquarters, which members are to unquestionably obey in all matters and at all times. Those who don't are said to have "a government problem." This total obedience opens the member up to the mind control abuse of the system.

"Those involved in a totalistic Bible-based group become enmeshed in the government of that organization." (Taken from: How to Recover After Exiting a Deceptive, Abusive Group)

Members in PCG (as in all totalistic groups) believe that to question Gerald Flurry is the same as questioning God. They believe they are building more and more of the "character of God," when, in reality, they are only becoming more submissive to the government of the organization.

The words, "government of God" are not mentioned in Scripture. In fact, there is no military model of government even found in the New Testament. (See chap. 9 of Damaged Disciples by Ron and Vicki Burks). Although PCG will try and use 2 Peter 2:10: "...despise government.." to try to correlate this somehow with "God's government" (which translates in their minds to PCG headquarters), the verses 10 through 16 are describing false teachers in the first century of the church. The word "government" in 2 Peter 2:10 really means "dominion" and occurs few times in the Bible.

PCG's teaching about the "government of God" comes from Herbert Armstrong who hammered this home. Those in the group who were disobedient to the "government" were considered rebellious and were disfellowshipped and/or marked. HWA even stated that in the "World Tomorrow" rebellious mortals would be forced into a life of obedience and submission as a result of this government. He called this "compulsory joy." (AC Bible Correspondence Course, Lesson 4) However, the Bible shows that God never forces anyone into anything.

Did Christ Reorganize the Church? (1939 article by HWA showing he condemned hierarchal church government in the early years)

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Questions About Members:

How can intelligent people become deceived?

Anyone can be susceptible to sophisticated thought reform methods. Leaders of deceptive, totalistic groups are skilled in coercive persuasion and mind control techniques. A number of them exhibit the behavior characteristics of sociopaths and have no conscience or scruples in regard to exploiting others. Setting themselves up as "spiritual authorities," they take advantage of people's vulnerabilities. Those who have carefully studied the literature of these groups will see that it is saturated with fear. This type of manipulation is called "fear phobia induction." Once the person is fear phobic, they become submissive to the authority in the group.

All human minds are open to influence and persuasion, including intelligent people that are simply looking for answers to the many problems they see in society. Some may be going through a difficult time in their life and the group's literature appears to provide answers. Other people may be idealistic and naïve.

Wolves in Sheep's Clothing (offsite link)

Why did my loved one go into an abusive group?

Many who are recruited into abusive groups are often emotionally distraught at the time, or searching. The group promises black and white answers. But those that join were not given all the facts upfront or been informed ahead of time all that will be expected of them once they become a member. If people knew all that was behind the exciting and informative literature that they become immersed in, they wouldn't go in. Recruitment is very subtle; therefore, if someone doesn't research the history of the group, or its founder, and be sure all their questions are answered ahead of time, plus understand how controlling, exploitive groups work, they can fall prey to this kind of deception. Once they read many of the group's free booklets, start sending in money to the organization, and finally come to distrust all other literature, churches, and other sources of information, they come to believe the propaganda that they need to ask a minister of that group to baptize them and to begin attending services on a regular basis. This last step may take years as the organization wants to make sure the person is thoroughly indoctrinated in their belief system and is sending in money on a regular basis. The end result is exploitation, abuse, and failed promises.

How Did Herbert W. Armstrong Recruit People? (shows the step by step process)

What happens to their personality?

Members in the high demand, totalistic groups form what is known as a "cult personality," or new personality, which is different than their personality before joining. (Refer to the book, Snapping: America's Epidemic of Sudden Personality Change by Flo Conway & Jim Siegelman.) This is also known as "doubling" and it can happen quickly or take approximately 3 l/2 years. They can also behave quite differently with the group (happy, upbeat), but switch and be totally different at home. They often become negative, sarcastic and judgmental toward "the world" and those outside their religious frame of mind. After exiting, the personality begins to re-organize itself. Reading some of the books on our Booklist will help you understand how these groups work and how people are being harmed psychologically and spiritually in such systems. Members become, in most cases, "religious addicts." While very sincere in their desire to obey God, their trust has been used against them in order to exploit and control them.

There is no unconditional love in these groups, only "love-bombing." This is a manipulative technique where the new recruit is showered with positive attention and reinforcement which helps them to feel that joining is in their best interests. This "loving atmosphere" also enables the recruiters to access the psychological needs, fears, dependencies, and resistance of the person who is thinking of joining. Methods of shame and guilt are also used to keep them in line.

To be happy and contented with one's faith is entirely different than being tricked into believing (as a result of fear and coercion) that one is in "God's true church," and all others outside of it are lost and headed for the great tribulation or eternal death. Totalist (authoritarian) groups have done great damage to individuals by causing them to hold to the belief of unconditional submission to a man that claims to be "God's representative." For anyone to manipulate another person's mind for one's own gain is a great evil.

Understanding Mind Control and Exploitive Groups

Why do they stay in these groups?

Members that have considered leaving, but don't, often feel trapped. They stay because they are held by their fears: fear their mind will be taken over by Satan;, fear of the lake of fire, fear of the great tribulation, fear of losing their salvation, fear of being cut off from family in the group; fear of nowhere to go if they leave (they believe it is "the true church") and fear that they will "cease to exist" if they find themselves on the outside, since their existence is in the group.

When taking on a new identity and new belief system (refer to the previous Q&A), they will become what the group leader desires--submissive, powerless, yet highly devoted and offering undying loyalty and servitude. In this state of mind, they discard and avoid all information which disagrees with what the leader teaches. They are taught to tell themselves and others (concerning whatever problems they see or experience as a result of their allegiance) that "God will take care of it." Therefore they dismiss any thoughts that something may be amiss. Outside their awareness, they are being exploited and controlled for the leaders' purposes.

How do I help a friend or loved one leave?

A person in any of these groups may not be able to leave until they start having doubts and/or questions. You should never try to force them out. Their decision to leave could come about by seeing a contradiction in what the leadership says in contrast to with what they are actually doing (hypocritical behavior, etc.), discovering the real history of the group, including the history of WCG, or by being abused by the leadership. Hearing from others that have left the group, and getting them to question many things is important. It is only through awareness and education, and learning the facts he didn't have upon joining, that an individual can regain his critical thinking skills. A thinking person can then make decisions to leave. Research in the United States has shown that if members have been away from the group for a period of time; i. e., three weeks, most of them tend to leave without exit counseling.

Members that are passive, positive, agreeable, lacking in critical thinking skills, having a need to be led, and who never cause any trouble to those in authority, are valuable assets to mind-controlling groups. The ones that speak up, or start asking too many uncomfortable questions, are soon gotten rid of. Those who are individualistic and inquisitive are more likely to leave.

People rarely come out of the deceptive and exploitive Armstrong groups because they discover the theology is wrong. It is rather when they are so abused by the leadership that they finally say to themselves, "this all cannot be of God." But if they do leave still believing HWA was "a tool in God's hands" and that "God's true church" exists out there somewhere, they will most likely start looking for a suitable offshoot. It is very difficult for most of them to accept that HWA was a fraud and WCG his apocalyptic cult. Only by understanding the deceit and corruption, as well as the theology, can they begin to see things as they really are.

If You Have a Loved One in a Deceptive, Exploitive Group (what to do and not to do)

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Questions about Recovery:

How do I recover after exiting an abusive group?

The following is by L. A. Stuhlman, founder of ESN:

The healthiest ex-members are those who have patiently studied their way through: (1) the deception of the WCG; (2) full understanding of what a cult is, how it functions in society, and the repercussions of cult involvement and, (3) spiritual discernment through: a) learning how WCG used techniques that spiritually damaged members (such as Scripture twisting); b) networking with others who have experience and sensitivity with the understanding of GRACE vs. LAW and the Gospel as understood by traditional Christianity; c) following through on the booklist provided which leads members into making solid decisions backed up by factual content and not just emotion, which often leads to toxic faith syndrome. That is the basic triangle of healing we use here. There is no particular order in the healing process. It has proven to be most successful when the exiter becomes responsible for his own recovery on his own time schedule. Understanding of corruption and deception within the organization has proven to be instrumental in leading the exiter away from the Armstrong dogma and into clear traditional Christian understanding. Recovery consists of breaking down every facet of manipulation and building a solid foundation on truth.

The following links are helpful for all exiters:

Articles for Those Who Have Been Spiritually and Emotionally Abused

Understanding Mind Control and Exploitive Groups (articles for exiters)

Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Exiters Tell What Has Helped Them to Heal From Armstrongism

Prayers for Freedom From Spiritual Strongholds

What do I do about phobias?

A phobia is a persistent, irrational fear that is being triggered. One of the main techniques mind manipulating groups use to control their members is fear. Their literature is saturated with it. These fears can remain for years if the exiter doesn't work hard on breaking free from them. Read how WCG made use of fear phobia induction. Once a person becomes fear phobic, they become submissive to the authority of the group and are vulnerable to exploitation.

Cognitive therapy, coupled with the Word of God, is the most effective therapy for phobias that resulted from the group's abusive teachings. (Note: Many exiters, especially child survivors, are unable to read, or hear quotes from, the Bible, due to it being used against them in the group. If the counselor is a Christian counselor, they must understand this and pay heed to how the counselee is feeling about this.) Therefore, when searching for a counselor the exiter should choose one that shows consideration in this regard, along with having a good understanding of abusive groups and/or trauma (or be willing to learn). The counselor should not try to control the exiter or blame their problems only on what happened before joining the group; otherwise, they could be harmed by the therapy.

It helps to be able to recognize the fear and then challenge it with the truth. For example, one way is to write the fear thoughts on the left side of the page in a column, and then on the right side in a column, challenge it by writing out what you rationally know is the truth.

Cognitive Focusing for Exiters (An Approach to Handling Depression, Anxiety, Fear & Guilt)

How to Walk Yourself Through a Panic Attack

Some good books that might prove helpful are:

Releasing the Bonds by Steven Hassan (Chapter 10: "Unlocking Phobias")

Cults in Our Midst by Margaret Singer (Includes aftereffects of fear; fear used as a controlling technique, etc.)

Captive Hearts: Captive Minds: Freedom & Recovery From Cults & Abusive Relationships by Madeline Tobias and Janja Lalich (Includes info on phobias)

Why do I have so much guilt?

In a system where perfection is the model, no human being can ever measure up. Abusive, high demand groups use guilt in order to control people. The end result is that the person blames themselves for not measuring up to what the group expects and demands of them. What exiters almost always have is "false guilt." To reverse this involves a process of unlearning false concepts (lies) that we have come to believe about ourselves. Understanding the love and grace of God can begin to erase those guilt feelings, whether true or false.

Getting the Group Out of Us

An End to Guilt (Excellent message that focuses on the unconditional love of God and gives a clear understanding of grace)

Why is it hard for me to attend a mainstream church?

Exiters placed their trust in and were betrayed by spiritual leaders; therefore, it is very common for those who have exited any abusive, authoritarian group to have a deep fear and distrust of anyone in a position of spiritual authority, and not to be able to attend a church for quite awhile, perhaps never. Going into another church can also present many triggers and exiters need to be aware of what to expect. Even attempting to sing certain hymns in some churches can cause problems (i. e., cognitive dissonance), since HWA changed many words in sacred hymns.

Those who have suffered in a high demand group need time to rest, heal, become stronger, and then determine for themselves whom to trust again. It is more helpful to first spend time reading some books on mind control, spiritual abuse, and recovery.

Struggles With Attending Other Churches (several stories from exiters)

How can I untangle my mind from HWA's doctrines?

Untangling the mind control and the redefining of Scriptures and scriptural concepts that HWA taught is one of the most difficult things for exiters to deal with. It has been said that no one has ever twisted the Word of God like HWA did and those who were deeply entrenched in his belief system have had their minds mixed up so much that is it almost impossible to get their thinking straightened out again. The late Walter Martin stated that what HWA taught was "a gospel of confusion unparalleled in the history of American cultism." (Kingdom of the Cults, "Herbert W. Armstrong and the Worldwide Church of God" (Chapter 12, p. 336). To undo this is a lot of hard work. But it can be accomplished.

HWA taught that "salvation is a process." That was not true. It was the mind control (programming) that was the "process" and it will take time to undo it. If exiters fail to undo the programming they received, they will remain "locked in Armstrongism" and will be vulnerable to joining a controlling group with similar doctrines.

Lifton's Eight Criteria of Mind Control

In addition to redefining the entire Bible, Herbert Armstrong redefined history; i. e., his own personal history, biblical/church history and the history of the Worldwide Church of God. There is ample documentation to prove that his own history as reported by himself was a lie.

It is hard for many exiters to read the Bible for quite awhile; however, it has proved helpful for some to instead read from a Bible commentary such as The Bible Knowledge Commentary (or another of one's choice). But if, or when, they want to read the Bible, it is suggested that they start in the New Testament epistles and stay out of the Old Testament for awhile. Read and believe what the Scriptures say, not what HWA said they mean. Pray and ask God's Spirit to guide you as you read and to reveal to you what He wants you to understand. In addition, you could take a Bible concordance and notice how many times the word "grace" is mentioned in the New Testament, along with the context the verse is in. Also, read and write down each occurrence of the gospel being preached by the apostles. Look for what the commonalities are in the preaching of the gospel. It will become clear that the gospel is the key to everything, and not the Law. You will begin to see this mentioned over and over again in the New Testament, especially in Paul's Epistles. The focus is no longer on the Mosaic Law given to the nation Israel, but on the death and bodily resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. The gospel proclaims salvation in Christ, by faith, through grace. (I Cor. 15:1-4)

Finally, realize that we do not need to get every false doctrine straightened out in our mind all at once. These things take years and even then we can never claim to know it all. Only cultic groups will proclaim that.

In addition to our Booklist and Links, the following on our site may prove helpful:

For Christians who want to escape thinking that HWA had "the Truth"

Questioning HWA's doctrines

How do I help someone recover?

As you educate yourself on how emotionally and spiritually damaging these groups are (and how they are capable of causing complex post traumatic stress disorder), you will be better prepared to help a friend or loved one to recover.

Intense emotions are normal whenever anyone has been coerced, abused and exploited. Furnish a safe place for them to talk; give them time to rest; to evaluate their goals and identity. When they are ready and if they show an interest, help them to comprehend what grace is compared to the striving and perfectionism that was enforced in the group. Let them know that there is hope, and that you support them unconditionally.

Common Emotional and Spiritual Difficulties After Leaving a High Demand Group

Be willing to listen patiently and non-judgmentally whenever they desire to talk about their experience. Avoid being confrontational. Never push anything on someone who has left an authoritarian group, as they are very sensitive to being controlled. It can also feel like a re-programming of their minds if you try to force a particular belief system on them, or urge church attendance, no matter how correct you feel it is. Remember that survivors of mind-manipulating or high demand groups have had the Bible used on them in a very negative way. Therefore, it is normal for them to not be able (or even want) to open the Bible right after exiting, due to triggers and fears, and to not trust any religious leaders or organizations. It is common for them to find it hard to even trust God.

For exiters of Armstrongism who are interested in learning about grace versus the works of the law, a Bible commentary such as The Bible Knowledge Commentary, or other non-legalistic Christian book, often paves the way until they are able to read the Scriptures themselves. However, no one should insist on Bible reading for those who have been in any type of high demand group, as it takes years to undo the emotional and spiritual scars.

When the time comes that they show an interest in understanding more about the history of the group they were in and how mind manipulative groups (a. k. a. "cults") function in our society, don't feel you have to be the one to furnish all the information you can find, or it could prove overwhelming. Allow them to have an active part in their own recovery and to learn to make independent decisions. It is important for them to know they are not powerless. (see Q&A above: How do I recover after exiting an abusive group?)

Recovery From Spiritual Abuse - How You Can Help [good offsite article]

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Questions About Our Website:

Why are you critical of WCG and certain offshoots?

Worldwide Church of God destroyed thousands of innocent lives in the name of "god" through fraud, intentional abuse and exploitation in the form of mind control. While WCG history may be changed and covered up (using doctrine as a distraction), this is a holocaust that cannot be simply buried and forgotten. We tell the other side of the story as a testimony to the victims. We also post what we do in order to help others avoid going into abusive and destructive splinter groups that engage in the same practices the WCG was known for. Those who do not learn the lessons of history are doomed to suffer the same fate for lack of knowledge.

Read the following:

Outsider's Inside Updates Newsletters

Articles on Exposing/Judging

What are your beliefs?

First of all, we do not believe that doctrine should be used to control, deceive or exploit others. Neither do we believe that anyone should force their beliefs on survivors who have suffered mind control and spiritual abuse, since their trust has been betrayed in the deepest sense of the word. Simply stated, we at ESN believe that eternal life is found only through faith, by grace, in the Lord Jesus Christ, who is Truth, not a particular church, denomination, or organization, and that He completed everything for us on the cross in a finished and perfect atonement.

What Do We Believe? (our statement of beliefs for informational purposes)

Why are pseudonyms used?

Pseudonyms are sometimes used on the site for two reasons: (1) Survivors of abusive and controlling religious groups have had their trust severely broken, and they do not wish to take the chance of being harassed or threatened by their former group, receive criticism from family still in, or have to explain their involvement to friends. Therefore, pseudonyms are often given unless the exiter requests we use their real name. (2) Basic Internet Security bulletins put out by officials, including police agencies, recommend several ways to stay safe on the internet. One of these is to not give out personal information such as full names and/or addresses.

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Questions About the Law, Works and Salvation:

Note: Exiters have had the Bible used on them in order to control, coerce, exploit and manipulate others. The following information is listed for those who have expressed an interest in these subjects. Sorting through one's personal beliefs after exiting a high demand group takes time.

Doesn't keeping the Ten Commandments play a part in salvation?

We can never be saved by keeping the Ten Commandments. Besides, no one can keep the Law perfectly in thought, word or deed. Trying to keep it actually stirs up the sin nature. (Rom. 7:8) It will condemn us and say we are guilty. The Law was called "the ministry of death." (II Cor. 3:7-8) In contrast, the grace of God through Christ Jesus is what releases us from sin and death.

The Ten Commandments constituted the old covenant. The Law of Moses (which the Ten Commandments are a part of) was given to the children of Israel. This offsite article shows that the Law consisted of 613 commandments: the "Written Law" given on two tablets of stone and the "Oral Law" consisting of 603 commandments. All is considered the Mosaic Law. The Scriptures state that one cannot pick and choose from these 613 old covenant laws. If you are going to observe them, you are obligated to do the whole law, including the New Moons with their sacrifices. See Galatians 3:10 and online book Seventh-Day Adventism Renounced by D. M. Canright (a group HWA is known to have plagiarized many of his teachings from). Even the early church fathers said these laws were cancelled by the new covenant of liberty. After Christ came, the Law served its purpose and passed away as a system. Christians are no longer under the Law (Galatians 5:18). There is no more need nor obligation to observe the Mosaic Law and the ceremonial types.

What God wants from us is to receive Christ and be joined to Him. "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:" (John 1:12) To receive Christ and believe in Him is a simple act of faith which gives us the ever-abiding presence of His Holy Spirit. (John 14:16).

Once we understand what grace is (unmerited favor from God, not "conditional grace"), we realize that He has saved us and will keep us saved. There is nothing we can add to that. (See I John 5:11-13).

For helpful resources in understanding more about law and grace, see our Links.

What is the Purpose of the Ten Commandments? [offsite article]

Is it essential that we keep the Sabbath?

The Sabbath was the sign between God and ancient Israel. It was part of the old covenant, which was a national, temporal law for a national, temporal purpose. The Israelites first received the Sabbath command from God through Moses. (See Nehemiah 9:13-14 and Deuteronomy 5:2-3).

If a religious group manipulates doctrine in order to coerce, exploit, manipulate, and control others, this is clearly wrong and should be exposed and the leadership held accountable. Even though there are many problems today in so-called Christian churches, what we should take exception with is when authoritarian groups use thought reform methods of fear, guilt and manipulation to say that one must keep the Sabbath, or else they will be cast out of "God's one true church" and (unless they repent and come back) will never obtain eternal salvation.

Herbert Armstrong emphasized the Sabbath and taught that it was a "sign" of the "one and only true church." This served to control members and led to a dogmatic insistence that one couldn't be converted unless they were in the "one true church" keeping the Sabbath. Such attitudes lead to a lack of grace and mercy in our dealings with others while focusing on a day with its do's and don'ts.

We find no mention of Paul instructing the Gentiles that they must keep the Sabbath. Furthermore, the Sabbath command is not mentioned at all in any of the Pauline epistles. Romans 13:8 mentions five of the Ten Commandments and then states, "if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shall love thy neighbor as thyself." There is no mention of the fourth commandment and that Christians need to "keep it holy." When our motive is love (the love of Christ in our hearts), there is no need for any other laws. The "law of Christ" mentioned in Gal 6:2 refers to "love one another" (John 13:34; 15:12), not to the Ten Commandments. The Christian is to live on a much higher plane than the Ten Commandments, and that is love. (Romans 13:10: "Love is the fulfilling of the Law.")

The early church fathers wrote that the observance of the Sabbath was demonstrated to have been temporary.

If what HWA taught was false, should we go back to observing "pagan" holidays?

Perhaps the main question we should ask is: which harmed us more--Christmas, Easter and birthdays (especially if we grew up observing them)--or leaders with deceptive motives who used days to control us, while they programmed our minds and exploited us in the process?

Nearly everything in our culture is rooted in paganism; i.e., names of the months, days of the week, planets, weddings, rings, neckties, etc. That does not necessarily make them evil. Evil lies in the heart of man, not in any particular day.

In regard to Christmas, HWA taught that Jeremiah 10:2-6 was talking about "Christmas trees"; however, if one reads the chapter in context, it is clear that God is speaking about the heathen custom of idolatry, not Christmas trees. How many Christians get down on their knees and worship their Christmas trees (if they have one), or think about pagan gods when/if they observe these days? Besides, there were no Christmas trees in Jeremiah's time. A Christmas tree is nothing but a decoration.

Traditional holidays can be used as a time to show love and kindness to friends and family, perhaps by exchanging a few presents, eating dinner, and spending time together, something members avoided for many years while in the controlling group and which caused much division and hurt feelings. It can also be a time to help the less fortunate. Worldliness, drunkenness, revelry, covetousness and idolatry are condemned in the Bible, but HWA made it sound like everyone who observes these holidays is guilty of such. He emphasized the negative elements in order to isolate people into his exclusive group. This fostered judgmental attitudes, self-righteousness, pride, and a lack of love and compassion toward others.

If a Christian believes that observing any of these holidays is wrong, then it would be a sin for him/her to participate in them. But if he does decide to observe them, it doesn't have to mean he believes "Christ was born on Christmas" or "Easter bunnies bring eggs."

Nevertheless, whether to observe certain days, or not, must remain an individual matter of Christian conscience (remaining true to our own convictions) and not judging others in these decisions. (See Romans 14:5-6) God accepts His children not because they don't observe "pagan" days, but on the basis of what His Son has already done for them on the cross of Calvary. The thing to remember is that Christ was born, and He was resurrected, and we should remember that all year round, not just at specific times of the year.

Trading One Superstition for Another

Why Church Leaders Demand Holy Days For Their Members

It's Been Hard to Observe Christmas Again

It Was a Gradual Process to Bring Christmas Back Into Our Family

What about not forsaking the assembling together?

Often times exiters will take Hebrews 10:25 ("Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together...") and apply it to those who are not attending a church (either due to it being too triggering for them, or because they have been unable to find a good Bible-teaching church). We cannot take one Scripture out of the Bible and try to use it in order to compel someone else to do what we think they should do.

Verses in the Bible must also be viewed in the context of the historical and cultural context in which they were given in. In the first century when the book of Hebrews was written, Christians were facing severe persecution, and the words in this verse, "as ye see the day approaching" probably referred to the time when the temple would be destroyed, which was in 70 A.D. These early Christians would not have a meeting place then, and would have to meet in private homes. Apparently, some of the Christians at this time were losing interest in Christ, or had defected from the faith, and were no longer meeting with other believers.

We also must consider Christians who today are unable to attend a church or even a visible fellowship due to living in countries where they are experiencing severe religious persecution (even from their own families), or are inside prisons in foreign countries. Are we to believe that they "can't grow unless they attend a church." Many of them have said that their only fellowship is in listening to certain Christian radio programs, sometimes with only a wind-up radio. Nevertheless, messages abound today from other Christians (especially in the United States) to make exiters feel guilty if they aren't "in church on Sunday." This is similar to how members and children were made to feel guilty if they didn't show up for Sabbath services in the WCG (or other offshoot).

Are Exiters "Out of Fellowship With God" if They Don't Attend a Church?

Can we ever lose our salvation?

Jesus tells us He is able to save to the uttermost all those that come unto God by Him. (Heb. 7:25). All that come to Him, He will not cast out. (John 6:37) He also says that He gives us eternal life and we will never perish, neither is any man able to take us out of His hand. (John 10:28) We are sealed with His Holy Spirit unto the day of redemption. (2 Cor. 1:22; Eph. 1: 13; 4:30) We are preserved in Jesus Christ. (Jude 1) We have an inheritance (that does not fade away) reserved for us in heaven. (I Peter 1:4) We may backslide or stumble, but we will never perish because He holds on to us, not vice versa. Jesus is the Good Shepherd and He will seek His lost sheep (those who wander away). He will not lose one of them. (John 6:39) It is encouraging to know that when we truly believe on Jesus Christ who died for all our sins (past, present and future), we are forever secure in our eternal salvation. (I John 5:13)

My Position in Christ (accepted and secure forever)

Eternal Security of the Believer by the late H. A. Ironside (written many years ago, but very good; also answers 24 questions at the end; Question #11 discusses Hebrews 6:4-6)

Can I commit the unpardonable sin?

There is no act of sin that you can commit for which there is no forgiveness because Christ died for all our sins and He does not hold any sin against us anymore.

The Holy Spirit cannot be lost (John 14:16) and if we have believed on, and trusted in Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, we have been reconciled to God (II Corinthians 5:18), and have the assurance of eternal life now. (I John 5:13)

Believing you have committed the "unpardonable sin" brings fear instead of peace and assurance. Such teaching is prevalent in groups which control members by fear and guilt.

The blasphemy of the Holy Spirit is covered in our critical review of chapter 3 of Mystery of the Ages. This also includes footnote #8, which quotes J. Vernon McGee from his notes on Matthew 12:29-32.

Also, review the answer to previous question.

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Miscellaneous Questions:

How do I tell others I was in a cult?

It is not necessary to come out and tell others you were in a "cult" (a.k.a. a totalitarian, high demand group). Most won't understand how you became involved in the first place, and if it is Christians you are telling this to, there is the very real possibility that they may unthinkingly say something hurtful, or look upon you as weak or inferior in some way. Read: Amazing Words That Have Been Said to Exiters-or-(What Never to Say to Someone Who Has Been Deceived by an Exploitive Group) Most Christians believe they can never be deceived, and the word "cult" to the majority of them means something along the order of a Jim Jones or David Koresh cult, or the Moonies.

If you feel you want to tell others something about your involvement (especially if you have been asked which church you were previously in) it is better to test the waters first and simply say you were in a "very controlling church" or "a high demand group." You do not need to give them the name of your former group and can simply say you "don't feel comfortable mentioning it." If you were in WCG and do say "Worldwide Church of God," there are some that probably have never heard of it. (The same is true with PCG and other splinter groups.) But if they have heard of WCG, they could say, "I heard WCG changed," "repented," "came to Christ," etc., and this could be very invalidating if you suffered much abuse inside and believe that the changes were instigated with mind control methods. (Refer to our articles under Research Info on WCG which covers history revision and exposé .) Other Christians will remember the name "Herbert Armstrong" and may have strong reactions to hearing you were involved with his group or literature.

Sometimes you will run across those who have been in a controlling church and who can identify with some of what you have gone through. It might work okay to tell them that your group used methods of control, guilt and fear to enforce compliance to their doctrines. It is best, however, not to blurt out your whole story to strangers, especially other Christians you do not know very well. Don't blame yourself or say you were "stupid" when you are sharing your involvement, or he/she may feel they should agree with you. The people that will understand the most are those who have been in a deceptive, controlling, exploitive group. While some exiters have found their church caring and accepting (or at least one or two people who are understanding), this seems to be the exception rather than the rule. Nevertheless, it is recommended that exiters always wait until they feel strong enough to answer others concerning their involvement.

If Christianity is true, why are there so many denominations?

It might be better to first ask, "where did this question come from?" Was it not Herbert W. Armstrong that used these words to try and plant a seed of doubt in the minds of those he was recruiting, in order that they might come to distrust all other mainstream Christian churches and hold to the belief that he alone was God's apostle of the "one and only true church" where God was working?

A better question is, "What are the traits of churches that claim they are the "one true church?" (Read All or Nothing Statements for a sample of how their leaders talk.)

What is important is what is going on inside a church or Christian organization. Do they teach that one is saved by faith through grace but then go on to add works, rituals and conditions for salvation? Do they control their members with fear and guilt if they don't obey the leadership? Do they hold to doctrines which center around the Person and Work of the Lord Jesus Christ, or do members believe that extra-revelations were given to their founder that must be used in addition to the Bible? Are their ministers humble, or do they have a proud, un-teachable spirit? Can members question or doubt what their ministers teach? Have they given many prophecies or predictions that have failed to come to pass? Do the fruits of their own lives testify as to what they teach, or have they been found to be hypocrites and liars? Do they forbid their members to listen to former members (calling them "disgruntled," "bitter," "Laodicean," etc.?) Do they practice history revision and gloss over the sins of their founder?

There has always been a false Christianity and a true Christianity. Doctrine is used by false teachers for the purpose of controlling their members and to distract others from their true agendas. Deceptive leaders (who are not held accountable) will control, abuse and exploit their members over the issue of doctrine in order to receive a following which brings them money and power. While there are many denominations, a false church will lack a basic fundamental understanding of the true Gospel, which centers on the vicarious atonement of Christ. If their understanding of the Gospel is inaccurate, then their interpretation of other scriptures will be flawed (and in most cases taken out of context and twisted).

Another point to consider is that while HWA wanted us to wonder "why there are so many denominations in Christianity," today we find hundreds of Armstrong offshoots ("churches") from the WCG, with most of them claiming to be the "correct" or "true" one.

Why Are There Many Different Christian Churches? [offsite link]

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