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.
Apocalyptic Christianity
World Mission Society Church of God
Also known as WMSCOG, Church of God, Church of God the Mother, Elohist Church, Zion Church
Founder by Ahn Sahng-hong. Current leader is Zahng Gil-jah, referred to as “God the Mother”.
1964 -
Established in South Korea. In operation in Australia, United States, United Kingdom, Philippines, India, Brazil, South Africa, Canada, New Zealand, and many more across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Estimated followers: 3 million members globally
Summary of Beliefs
The WMSCOG teaches that salvation in the last days is only possible through belief in both Ahn Sahng-hong (God the Father) and Zahng Gil-jah (God the Mother). They believe that Ahn fulfilled the Second Coming of Jesus, and that Zahng now leads humanity in the final era before Judgment Day. Members refer to their church as “Zion,” and see themselves as the true remnant church from Revelation. The group practices strict legalism, including observing the Old Testament festivals, tithing, and keeping the Sabbath on Saturday.
New recruits are often drawn in through street evangelism, where full doctrine is revealed gradually. Members are taught that they will be physically saved from disasters if they stay faithful. This apocalyptic urgency is a key factor in controlling behaviour. Former members report being subjected to intensive indoctrination, emotional manipulation, and social isolation. The group also pressures members to cut off ties with non-believing family and commit vast amounts of time and money to the church.
Controversies include multiple lawsuits alleging coercion, fraud, and emotional abuse, a cult classification by watchdog groups, and numerous ex-member testimonies about psychological harm and family estrangement. Critics accuse WMSCOG of using mind control tactics and deceptive recruitment, while the church aggressively denies all allegations and often threatens legal action against critics.
Analysis Using Renée's Cult Ranking
1. Authoritative Leadership
Score: 3
WMSCOG has a centralised, absolute authority structure. Zahng Gil-jah is worshipped as “God the Mother,” and her supposed counterpart Ahn Sahng-hong as “God the Father.” There is no room for dissent; leadership is seen as divine.
2. Control Over Information
Score: 3
The group controls access to internal materials and doctrines. Members are forbidden from researching “negative” material or speaking to ex-members. Former members report indoctrination and censorship.
3. Deception
Score: 3
There is documented use of deception during recruitment, such as withholding the true beliefs (e.g., deity of Zahng Gil-jah) until a member is fully drawn in. This is often called “gradual revelation” and includes gaslighting tactics. though these deceptions are not as pervasive or systemic as in more extreme cults.
4. Exclusive Knowledge
Score: 3
WMSCOG claims to possess exclusive truth and salvation, only available through knowledge of “God the Mother.” Teachings are considered infallible revelations from divine leaders.mong followers who believe they need this information for their well-being and enlightenment.
5. Exploitation
Score: 2
While there are no confirmed reports of sexual exploitation, WMSCOG has been accused of financial and labor exploitation, such as pressuring members to donate large sums and working long hours unpaid for the church
6. Fear, Guilt, & Intimidation
Score: 3
The group uses fear of hell or death before the Second Coming to pressure obedience. Members report emotional manipulation, guilt, and threats of spiritual consequences for questioning or leaving.
7. Isolation
Score: 2
Members are strongly encouraged to cut off outsiders, including family. While not always physically isolated, they are socially isolated by way of time-consuming activities and spiritual guilt over “worldly” influences.
8. Micro-Management of Daily Tasks
Score: 2
Members must attend frequent Bible studies, recruiting sessions, and services, leaving little time for autonomy. However, most members do not live communally.
9. Monitoring Thoughts & Behaviours
Score: 1.5
Surveillance is psychological and social—members are expected to report each other, and thought crimes (e.g., doubt) are condemned. There’s no confirmed physical surveillance, but heavy social monitoring exists.
10. Punishment & Discipline
Score: 2
Punishments include social shunning, public shaming, and emotional withdrawal. While not physical, these methods have had psychological effects on ex-members, some of whom report long-term trauma.
11. Thought Reform
Score: 3
The group employs intensive indoctrination, redefining key Christian concepts and demanding total belief in their theology. Love bombing, guilt, repetition, and exhaustion are common tactics.
12. Us vs. Them Mentality
Score: 3
WMSCOG teaches that only its members will be saved, and all others are part of “Babylon” or Satan’s world. There is a strong apocalyptic and isolationist worldview—an absolute line drawn between insiders and outsiders.
Total Score: 29.5/36 Likely Destructive Cult
The WMSCOG exerts broad-spectrum control, particularly over vulnerable recruits. It’s especially concerning given their rapid global growth and polished public image.
Further Reading
IS IT A CULT?: Response from
World Mission Society Church of God
No known response.
Online Counselling Available for Cult and Coercive Control Recovery
Recover From Coercive Control offers online counselling for individuals and families impacted by cults, high-control groups, or coercive relationships. Whether you’re currently entangled, recently exited, or supporting a loved one through their recovery, this space is for you. Sessions are trauma-informed, grounded in psychological research and lived experience, and tailored to help you rebuild autonomy, process grief, and make sense of what happened.