RECOVER FROM COERCIVE CONTROL
Disclaimer:
Renée uses 12 criteria with ratings of 0-3 to assess groups and provide an overall ranking out of 10 that reflects levels of coercive control. These assessments are based upon media reports, personal testimonies, and other research. The findings reflect her personal opinions which may differ to others. She is mindful that groups can change over time, for the better or worst, and that the experiences of individuals may vary within any group. Renée is open to respectful discussions and encourages diverse perspectives to foster a better understanding of matters raised.
Christianity/Pentecostal
Branhamites
Also known as “Message Believers”
Founded by William Marrion Branham. Australian office managed by Andrew O'Dwyer in Western Australia
1940s -
Established in the United States, originating in Jeffersonville, Indiana. In Australia, they are in New South Wales and Victoria.Globally, Branhamite congregations can be found in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Finland, South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zimbabwe, Brazil, Chile, the Philippines, and India. These groups often operate independently, without a centralised denominational structure, and maintain connections through shared beliefs and resources.
Estimated followers: Unknown
Summary of Beliefs
The Branhamite movement, also known as the Message or Message Believers, is a loosely organized network of religious groups that follow the teachings of William Marrion Branham, a Pentecostal evangelist from Jeffersonville, Indiana. Established during the post-World War II healing revival in the 1940s, the movement views Branham as a prophet and the forerunner to Christ’s second coming, often referring to him as the seventh church-age messenger foretold in the Book of Revelation. His followers place supreme authority on his sermons—often more so than on the Bible itself—and believe his teachings to be direct revelations from God.
The core ideology of the Branhamite movement includes a literalist and apocalyptic interpretation of scripture, strict holiness codes, and a rejection of denominational Christianity. Beliefs include the Serpent Seed doctrine (that Eve had sexual relations with the serpent), the imminent rapture of a predestined Bride of Christ, and an end-time message that calls for separation from “worldly” influences. The movement is patriarchal in structure, discourages women from leadership or public ministry, and often encourages modesty, isolation from secular society, and obedience to what they interpret as the “Word.” Despite controversy and accusations of cult-like control, the movement has established communities around the world, including in the United States, Canada, Australia, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, India, and the Philippines.
Analysis Using Renée's Cult Ranking
Branhamites, also known as “Message Believers,” are followers of William Marrion Branham, an American preacher active from the 1940s until his death in 1965. Branham claimed to be the final prophet to the church, fulfilling the prophecy in Malachi 4:5, and his teachings have given rise to a movement known as Branhamism. In Australia, Branhamite groups are present in various regions, including Western Australia, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory. Notable assemblies include the Spoken Word Fellowship in Perth and the Canberra Bible Believers, both of which uphold Branham’s teachings and consider his messages as divinely inspired. These groups often emphasise a return to what they perceive as the original apostolic faith and maintain a strict moral code.
1. Authoritative Leadership
Score: 3
Branhamites regard William Branham as the final prophet, whose teachings are considered authoritative and often placed above traditional scriptural interpretations. This veneration extends to current leaders who disseminate his messages, leading to centralized control over doctrinal matters.
2. Control Over Information
Score: 2
Adherents are encouraged to focus exclusively on Branham’s sermons and literature, often discouraging engagement with external theological perspectives, thereby limiting access to diverse viewpoints.
3. Deception
Score: 1
While not overtly deceptive, the movement’s portrayal of Branham’s role and the exclusivity of his revelations may lead to misunderstandings about mainstream Christian doctrines.
4. Exclusive Knowledge
Score: 3
Branhamites believe they possess the true interpretation of Christianity, as revealed through Branham’s messages, fostering a sense of exclusivity and spiritual elitism.
5. Exploitation
Score: 2
There are reports of psychological and emotional manipulation within some Branhamite communities, including strict adherence to lifestyle codes and pressure to conform, which can be exploitative.
6. Fear, Guilt, & Intimidation
Score: 2
Members may be subjected to teachings that instil fear of divine judgment or guilt for questioning leadership, contributing to an environment of control through emotional means.
7. Isolation
Score: 2
The movement’s emphasis on separation from “worldly” influences can lead to social isolation, discouraging relationships outside the group and limiting external interactions.
8. Micro-Management of Daily Tasks
Score: 1
While not universally enforced, some communities impose detailed guidelines on personal behaviour, including dress codes and social activities, reflecting a degree of micro-management.
9. Monitoring Thoughts & Behaviours
Score: 2
There is an expectation for members to self-monitor and report deviations from prescribed teachings, fostering an atmosphere of surveillance and conformity.
10. Punishment & Discipline
Score: 1
Disciplinary actions, such as shunning or public admonishment, may be employed to enforce adherence to group norms, though practices vary among communities.
11. Thought Reform
Score: 2
The movement’s teachings often involve reinterpreting established doctrines through Branham’s revelations, leading to a reformation of members’ belief systems aligned with the group’s ideology.
12. Us vs. Them Mentality
Score: 3
Branhamites frequently adopt an exclusivist worldview, viewing themselves as the sole bearers of truth and other denominations as misguided or apostate.
Total Score: 24/36 Significant Harmful Cult
According to Renée’s cult ranking system, Branhamite groups in Australia score 24 out of 36, placing them at Level 7: Significant Harmful Cult. This classification indicates significant control over members’ beliefs and behaviours, characterised by authoritative leadership, exclusivity, and psychological manipulation.
Further Reading
IS IT A CULT?: Response from
Branhamites
No known response.