Faith Assembly: A 1984 Dystopian Christian Faith - Episode 205 Branham Research Podcast

Available on Spotify, Google, and Apple Podcasts:
https://william-branham.org/podcast

Support the show:
https://www.patreon.com/branham

Chino's YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@chinodross

The podcast episode provides an in-depth discussion of Hobart Freeman and his Faith Assembly movement, focusing on its decline in 1984. The conversation draws parallels between the dystopian novel *1984* and Freeman’s control over his congregation, likening his methods to totalitarian thought control. Freeman's teachings, which resulted in numerous deaths due to rejection of medical care, were discussed alongside his increasing isolation and bitterness toward the media. Freeman's rigid views and unyielding leadership alienated followers, leading to schisms within the Faith Assembly. The dialogue emphasizes Freeman's focus on control, both in religious doctrine and personal lives, as well as his public shaming of dissenters.

The discussion further explores the aftermath of Freeman’s leadership, with personal stories from survivors and the long-lasting effects of his teachings. Freeman’s rules, often arbitrary and contradictory, extended to all areas of life, from the rejection of medical care to marital and lifestyle restrictions. Former followers recall the oppressive atmosphere, where criticism was met with excommunication, and compliance was demanded under the guise of spiritual superiority. The episode concludes by noting the ongoing impact of Freeman's teachings on his followers, many of whom continue to suffer physically and emotionally from his doctrine.

00:00 Introduction
02:07 The Decline of Faith Assembly in 1984
05:05 Media Coverage and Deaths at Faith Assembly
07:58 Comparisons with John Alexander Dowie
10:58 Hobart Freeman’s Control and Thought Manipulation
14:34 Ongoing Impact of Freeman’s Teachings After His Death
18:03 Parallels Between *1984* and Religious Cults
21:01 Bruce Keny's Departure from Faith Assembly
26:01 Cult Control Tactics and Public Shaming
30:53 The "No Hunting" Rule and Other Arbitrary Restrictions
36:43 The Burden of Legalism in Cult Churches
42:04 Further Contradictions in Freeman’s Teachings
47:06 Hobart Freeman’s Mockery of Departing Members
52:20 The Contrast Between Cult Churches and Traditional Churches
56:01 Hobart Freeman’s Final Days and the Decline of His Ministry
1:00:08 The Effects of Freeman's Teachings on Marriages and Families
1:03:58 Closing Remarks
______________________
– Support the channel: https://www.patreon.com/branham
– Subscribe to the channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBSpezVG15TVG-lOYMRXuyQ
– Visit the website: https://william-branham.org
– Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WilliamBranhamOrg
– Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@william.m.branham
– Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wmbhr
– Buy the books: https://william-branham.org/site/books