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American Messiahs: False Prophets of a Damned Nation
A New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice Selection A history with sweeping implications, American Messiahs challenges our previous misconceptions about “cult” leaders and their messianic power. Mania surrounding messianic prophets has defined the national consciousness since the American Revolution. From Civil War veteran and virulent anticapitalist Cyrus Teed, to the dapper and overlooked civil rights pioneer Father Divine, to even the megalomaniacal Jim Jones, these figures have routinely been dismissed as dangerous and hysterical outliers. After years of studying these emblematic figures, Adam Morris demonstrates that messiahs are not just a classic trope of our national culture; their visions are essential for understanding American history. As Morris demonstrates, these charismatic, if flawed, would-be prophets sought to expose and ameliorate deep social ills―such as income inequality, gender conformity, and racial injustice. Provocative and long overdue, this is the story of those who tried to point the way toward an impossible “American Dream”: men and women who momentarily captured the imagination of a nation always searching for salvation. 8 pages of black and white photographs
432 pages, Hardcover
Published March 26, 2019
84 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 13, 2019
Reads like a book report or a research essay done by an overachieving high-schooler. Extremely well researched, but little to no analysis of impact or relevance of the Universal Friend or Father Devine on American spirituality to today beyond the obvious-- that they were precursors to Jim Jones.
Very little synthesis of why strands of messianic groups have persisted throughout U.S. history; very little analysis of whether it's ultimately been a "blessing or a curse".
Usually with non-fiction i can look past what a book does not accomplish, and instead focus on what it does do well, especially if it's enjoyable. The complete lack of historical context in each of the four segments (Universal Friend, Teed, Devine, Jones) made this book, unlike its subjects, not worth following.
Very little synthesis of why strands of messianic groups have persisted throughout U.S. history; very little analysis of whether it's ultimately been a "blessing or a curse".
Usually with non-fiction i can look past what a book does not accomplish, and instead focus on what it does do well, especially if it's enjoyable. The complete lack of historical context in each of the four segments (Universal Friend, Teed, Devine, Jones) made this book, unlike its subjects, not worth following.
May 5, 2019
Sigh. Yet more proof that the American need to place one's faith (and life savings) in the hands of a dim-witted charlatan or charismatic conman isn't a bug: It's a feature.
April 29, 2019
I received this book in exchange for a honest review from NetGalley.
I really loved this books despite having some differences of opinion to the author. This book was an fairly academic view of various cults throughout american history. It very thoroughly traced the socialist communal messianic cult through the ages. I felt like to a degree the author picked and chose his cults that he covered to make his eventual point that our being anti-cult and capitalist has led us to ruin. I felt like in this evaluation that the author didn't cover all of the horrible things that unchecked cults have done over time (children of god, moonies, and more). In this narrow view it is possible to make the argument that some "cults" or communist messianic traditions were indeed very helpful to leftist causes (abolition, suffrage, civil rights and more) but I think that is far too narrow a view because too many end up dangerous (child exploitation, rape, murder, suicide). Overall I liked the book it was well written and had a lot of interesting things to say and would be a interesting read for anyone interested in cults and religion.
I really loved this books despite having some differences of opinion to the author. This book was an fairly academic view of various cults throughout american history. It very thoroughly traced the socialist communal messianic cult through the ages. I felt like to a degree the author picked and chose his cults that he covered to make his eventual point that our being anti-cult and capitalist has led us to ruin. I felt like in this evaluation that the author didn't cover all of the horrible things that unchecked cults have done over time (children of god, moonies, and more). In this narrow view it is possible to make the argument that some "cults" or communist messianic traditions were indeed very helpful to leftist causes (abolition, suffrage, civil rights and more) but I think that is far too narrow a view because too many end up dangerous (child exploitation, rape, murder, suicide). Overall I liked the book it was well written and had a lot of interesting things to say and would be a interesting read for anyone interested in cults and religion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2019
Fascinating topic and argument with solid research, but the structure of the writing and the quickness of the author’s final points detracted from the overall cohesion of the book and strength of his idea.
July 1, 2019
i really found everything in here fascinating. the way morris connects jim jones to a long line of messianic prophets is nothing short of brilliant, especially using each successive cult leader to build upon the information he's given you prior.
there's also a lot to take in, and sometimes, morris gets a little too inside baseball regarding the particularities of the individual religious orders. it's necessary, in order to differentiate and demonstrate how schisms occurred, but it makes for some really tedious reading.
tl;dr: fascinating, but definitely not a speedy read.
there's also a lot to take in, and sometimes, morris gets a little too inside baseball regarding the particularities of the individual religious orders. it's necessary, in order to differentiate and demonstrate how schisms occurred, but it makes for some really tedious reading.
tl;dr: fascinating, but definitely not a speedy read.
February 17, 2025
I learned new stuff, including the story of many historical utopian leaders I had never heard of before. Also that Jim Jones at one point was a door to door pet monkey salesman. That alone was worth reading the entire book!
November 30, 2019
Well-told accounts of key episodes and personalities in a curiously American strain of religious fervor. Perhaps most valuable for the way the author teases out the noble and often radical principles espoused by such figures, even the maniac Jim Jones, before paranoia and megalomania take over.
May 15, 2020
This post is to help shed some light on the serious threat posed by false prophets, the verifiable evidence of which will confirm that these well known persona's have come from many a different background & era, but they all have one thing in common, an anti-Scriptural doctrine, which can readily be identified as a Truthful statement if one were to search diligently and with and open mind (that's eyes to see and ears to hear).
"We have been taught Lies, reality is not what it appears to be" Bill Cooper
C S Lewis is widely considered by Christians the world over as someone to be looked-up to and respected with regards his works, which at first glance look to be harmless and spread the Word of God faithfully. But a closer, second look at Lewis's works reveals a world rammed full of 'mysticism', which is esoteric occult learning or in simple laymans terms 'magic/witchcraft/sorcery,' which is an affront to the Lord your God.......don't believe me? Then search; C S Lewis and the occult, and all manner of info sites pop-up. The post by Jeremy James "Lupus Occultus, The Paganised Christianity of C S Lewis," is a good source of info, as is Mary Anne Colin's post, "Trouble in Narnia, The Occult Side of C S Lewis".......I will include a few of Lewis's shortcomings: 1) Christ Jesus did not atone for our sins; 2) God is found inside of man; 3) Mystisicm supercedes the Bible; 2) That mortal man is not condemned to die in the next life (I wonder what Lewis's thought's on this are now?).......Lewis had a close friend in JRR Tolkien, who was my favourte author until I, myself learned the Truth about Tolkien's exploits. Both Lewis & Tolkien were members of the very elitist The Golden Dawn (a Hermetic Order). Jeremy James also makes a very good observation in that Lewis's & Tolkien's books are popular sellers in witchcraft shops. Furthermore, he also states that former high-ranking witches John Todd & David Meyer, both confirm that their (Lewis & Tolkien) books were one of the 'must haves' by way of being accepted officially into the 'the family' ie coven.
"He who turns a sinner from the error of his ways, will save a soul from death and cover over a multitude of sins" James 5:22
Neville Goddard & Wayne Dyer, who are/were both self-styled self-help guru's, one of which (Neville) very publicly states that it is the Lord God who gives him his inspiration with regards to his works, but again, when looked at diligently clearly shows is not the case.......Goddard operated in the paranormal realm and informed the reader/listener that it was our 'imaginations' i.e. concioussness & subconciousness that formed our reality, which is something that I also believe to very possibly be True (Prof Rupert Sheldrake has excellent posts on YouTube re Morphic Resonance, which I personally feel is the 'real" science concerning our reality).......the main problem I have with Goddard, is that he teaches the 'I AM' doctrine of "we are God and He us" which is a secular, mystic teaching that has no foundation in Truth i.e. the Holy Bible (our instructions). Goddard also demonstrates his occult roots with chanting i.e. the repetition of words, over and over again in his mantra. Take a look at some of Goddard's quotes; "If you judge by appearances, you will continue to be enslaved by the evidences of your senses" which I think is a great observation. Then how about this one; "If a man looks upon another man and estimates himself better than the other, then he is stealing from this man, because he is stealing the birth-right of this man, that of equality" which I personally found captivating. But then I saw and read this; "man fails to do the works of Jesus Christ because he attempts to accomplish them from his present level of conciousness. You will never transcend your present level of conciousness through sacrifice & struggle" which is just plain wrong, as any devout and True Christian will inform you that one cannot be a Faithful follower in Christ Jesus in this Satanic material world with all its temptation without sacrificing (hence struggling) much, lest one succumb to their temptation at the risk of being forever lost (very dangerous teaching by Goddard).......Wayne Dyer is no different in that he sounds and looks like a thoroughly decent chap (innocent) unless you are very farmiliar with the Word of God ie Bible (our instructions). Dyer is readily exposed/identified as a 'new age' idealist who frequently takes Almighty God out of the equation in his works. An example being say, a Psalm/Hymn that has God's name replaced with an altogether different word such as 'love', but its done very subtly, so that very few realise what's actually being done to them. Dyer also professes to talk to the dead (which are in fact demons). Edgar Gacy was yet another prominent mystic that claimed he could predict the future, and other mystifying feats of wonder, when it is in fact 'demons' that are the one's feeding the information on. I recommend Derek Prince and his sermons on demons here and I refer you to Deuteronomy 18:10-12, for a better understanding of what not to do ie get yourself mixed up in, as it is vitally important that you know the Truth, which we know & understand as the Word of God.
"Be doers of the Word, and not hearers only" James 1:22
Then we have the likes of John Piper and C Sam Storms, along with the founding father of Calvinism John Calvin himself. I am only using these guys as an example of what to look out for with regards to 'deviating' from the Scriptures ie the Message of Jesus, as there are far too many to list them all, given that there are around 500+ denominations in the States alone, with many thousands more cited around the world. There is much to see & highlight here with regards John Piper. Firstly, many of his books do not sit well with myself (at a glance), most especially when I compare them to those of Derek Prince (who is where I go to for my spiritual guidance). Piper has books which feature gambling (how to play the stock market safely), which is just plain 'wrong' as gambling is addictive and has destroyed many lives. Secondly, there is 'idol' symbology in the form of Jesus being represented as a statue. Thirdly, there is an 'inverted' tree (reversing & inverting are telling traits of Satan). Fourthly, we see erroneous globe Earth pictures (the Scriptures make absolutely 'no' reference to anything that resembles a ball/sphere/globe or even core/centre of the Earth) and Piper also has many direct references to the Sun, not just in his books but art too, which again is dangerously close to Lucifer ie Satan worship. And lastly, Piper has somehow managed to write a detailed account on the current 'coronavirus' debacle, which has only been around the last 7-8 weeks and linked God & Jesus to this (his) narrative. 'Is' Piper attempting to prepare his followers for the Second Coming of Christ in this book by postulating that the Covid pandemic is An Act of God? Because if he is, you just make sure that the Christ Piper is referring to here is the 'real' one (you will know them by their fruits; these being Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Gentleness, Generosity, Self-Control, Faithfullness and of course 'Love').......'meekness' ie humility is also a telling trait to watch out for, as Satan's heart is full of pride/hubris.
"It is for freedom that Christ set us free" Galatians 5:1
I am now going to attempt and share with you some very telling number sequences for the purpose of identifying telling traits ie what I firmly believe to be are Satan's 'tag/hallmark'. If we start with C Sam Storms, it can be seen that C=3 and that Sam=6, where Storms=23 (the No:23 is most significant. If you add the 6 and 3 you get 32, which is No:23 reversed. You also have 3x6 or three sixes (666).......C=see, wheresas Sam=Uncle Sam (who is Baphomet ie Satan). Storms=tempest......."See Lucifer in the Storm".......in the Scripture narrative, Lucifer (Satan) was cast down to Earth in a tempest (storm) in the form of a lightning-bolt, to roam/wander the Earth.......I wouldn't be in the least bit surprised to learn that this C Sam Storms' name was anything 'but' what he claims it to be.
"For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil" Timothy 6:10
John Piper was born on 11/01/1946 which is No:23. The name Piper is 37, take 6+6+6 (or 18) and multiply by 37, you come to 666, the Mark of the Beast. Piper is also a direct ref to 'the' Pied Piper of Hamlin, who led the children of Hamlin away to their doom (many of the people of Hamlin believe the story to be True).......Piper is also a direct ref to the Olympian god Pan, a very powerful & influential god who played the Pan-pipes (research Pan). So, is John Piper leading the children of Almighty God up/down Satan's garden path? I noticed there was a book written recently by a Enoch Burke which expands more on the tenets of John Piper. Furthermore, when John Piper's slogan 'Desiring God' is looked at closer, it could be interpreted as de-siring God i.e. removing Jesus Christ from the narrative. Also, the word 'desire' itself stirs up images of temptation i.e. to crave/lust after (to my mind at least).......there is much more to look at that does not sit/feel right to me with regards John Piper, but the most telling part is probably the founder of Calvinism, John Calvin himself.......before I do that though, I would like to tell you if my experience with a Calvinist pastor, whom I knew briefly and got along very well with 'until' I realisec he was a Calvinist, whereupon I did some research and consequently asked him some probing/telling questions concerning his TULIP mantra, and then he (the pastor) got very defensive and steadfastly refused to talk about it. The big issue i have is the 'predestination' doctrine, which essentially states that 'no matter' who you are, once you are declared 'saved' (by who?) then you are 'always' saved.......even Derek Prince has talked of "that fateful day he realised he was saved" (and he may may well be right). I personally feel that Ron Wyatt is probably correct here with regards this crucial point, as he was incredibly humble, knew the Scriptures inside-out and was 'shown' many Biblical evidences to help confirm the Biblical narrative for the benefit of you & I.......Wyatt informs us that it is 'only' through Jesus Christ that we are saved i.e. that He, by His mercy & grace, has deemed us worthy of salvation.......furthermore, there is much Scripture to contradict this 'predestination & preservation of the Saints' doctrine of Calvinism and you 'only' need to use your God given sense (common sense) to realise the absurdity of it, as it does away with the sacred covenant of 'free will'.......lastly; C Sam Storms has written an article on behalf of John Piper's Ministry 'debunking' the Book of Revelation (the very last chapters in the Holy Bible story), which to my mind is just 'inconceivably' flat-out wrong, as the Book of Revelations has vitally critical information inside regarding End Time Prophecy, that not only warns us of what to expect in these very telling times, but also how to recognise the signs and what to avoid by way of 'deception' i.e. false prophets".
"For those with eyes to see and ears to hear, the Truth shall set you free" The Word of God
John Calvin, born 10/07/1509 which is No:23, the word Calvinism is 39, which can be read as 3x6 i.e. 666 (invert the 9, a trait of Satan's) and Calvinist is 37, add 6+6+6 and multiply by 37 and you get 666, the Mark of Satan.......Calvin was quoted often referring to Almighty God as the 'architect', which is a Freemasonic term for Lucifer (Satan). Search; John Calvin and Freemasonry, and take a good look at the images/info that pop-up. John Calvin was not welcome in his home country of origin (France) and went to Switzerland, where he quickly established himself and his new-found ideas (Calvinism), which we are informed grew popular very quickly, but tellingly, people who voiced their opinions against Calvinism, including famously Michael Serverus, found themselves being burnt at the stake for their 'insubordination' (many people, including poor Michael Servetus, were tricked by John Calvin under some pretence for the sole purpose of killing them, which was 'premeditated' murder and a rather unique way to start your Ministry).......does anyone out there Truly believe the Lord and His Son Jesus Christ would condone such a man?). There is much more damning evidence to strongly suggest Calvinism is not what it initially appears to be and it's no surprise Calvinist's 'shut up shop' when you attempt to talk to them about the foundations of their Calvinistic faith.
"If any person should take away or add to the words of the book of this Prophecy, they also shall have their name taken out of the Book of Life, and that of the Holy City (New Jerusalem)" Revelations 22:19
Please refer to other posts left on this forum which shed more light on the relevance/importance of numbers and their sequences, as it is with these numbered 'codes' that Freemasons & their ilk, communicate & identify each other & their works i.e. through mysticism, which is a form of magic/sorcery. The list of books are:
Kate Bush: The Biography by Rob Jovanovich.
Last Word: My Indictment of the CIA in the Murder of JFK by Mark Lane.
Saturn: A new look at an old Devil by Liz Greene.
Where there's doubt: Moon Landings by Craig Farley.
Scarlet and the Beast: A book about Freemasonry by John Daniels.
Space Invaders by William Schnoebelen.
It is important to state here that it is not my intention to cause division among Christian's, just spread the Word Faithfully & Truthfully in the eyes of the Lord Jesus, Who Himself informs us that He has not come to bring peace to the world, but that He comes with a sword to Judge the wicked, Mathew 10:34.......we are warned that many false teachers (prophets) will be among us in 2 Peter 2 and that we are to confirm every 'spirit' by acknowledging Jesus as Lord......."Faith is good only when it engages Truth, when it is made to rest upon falsehood it can and often does end in eternal tragedy." A W Tozer.
Through the blood of Jesus, all of our sins are forgiven.
Through the blood of Jesus, we are taken out of the hands of the devil.
As I continue to walk in the light, we are cleansed of all sin.
Through the blood of Jesus, we are justified, made righteous, just as if I had never sinned.
Through the blood of Jesus, we are sanctified, made holy, set apart to God. Amen.
It is my firm belief we will see the prophecied new world order & their one world religion by the year 2023, as all the evidence thus far points to this inevitable conclusion. The Lies & Deception are rife today.......If something looks as though it doesn't have any clothes on, then chances are it very probably hasn't.......Shalom.
"We have been taught Lies, reality is not what it appears to be" Bill Cooper
C S Lewis is widely considered by Christians the world over as someone to be looked-up to and respected with regards his works, which at first glance look to be harmless and spread the Word of God faithfully. But a closer, second look at Lewis's works reveals a world rammed full of 'mysticism', which is esoteric occult learning or in simple laymans terms 'magic/witchcraft/sorcery,' which is an affront to the Lord your God.......don't believe me? Then search; C S Lewis and the occult, and all manner of info sites pop-up. The post by Jeremy James "Lupus Occultus, The Paganised Christianity of C S Lewis," is a good source of info, as is Mary Anne Colin's post, "Trouble in Narnia, The Occult Side of C S Lewis".......I will include a few of Lewis's shortcomings: 1) Christ Jesus did not atone for our sins; 2) God is found inside of man; 3) Mystisicm supercedes the Bible; 2) That mortal man is not condemned to die in the next life (I wonder what Lewis's thought's on this are now?).......Lewis had a close friend in JRR Tolkien, who was my favourte author until I, myself learned the Truth about Tolkien's exploits. Both Lewis & Tolkien were members of the very elitist The Golden Dawn (a Hermetic Order). Jeremy James also makes a very good observation in that Lewis's & Tolkien's books are popular sellers in witchcraft shops. Furthermore, he also states that former high-ranking witches John Todd & David Meyer, both confirm that their (Lewis & Tolkien) books were one of the 'must haves' by way of being accepted officially into the 'the family' ie coven.
"He who turns a sinner from the error of his ways, will save a soul from death and cover over a multitude of sins" James 5:22
Neville Goddard & Wayne Dyer, who are/were both self-styled self-help guru's, one of which (Neville) very publicly states that it is the Lord God who gives him his inspiration with regards to his works, but again, when looked at diligently clearly shows is not the case.......Goddard operated in the paranormal realm and informed the reader/listener that it was our 'imaginations' i.e. concioussness & subconciousness that formed our reality, which is something that I also believe to very possibly be True (Prof Rupert Sheldrake has excellent posts on YouTube re Morphic Resonance, which I personally feel is the 'real" science concerning our reality).......the main problem I have with Goddard, is that he teaches the 'I AM' doctrine of "we are God and He us" which is a secular, mystic teaching that has no foundation in Truth i.e. the Holy Bible (our instructions). Goddard also demonstrates his occult roots with chanting i.e. the repetition of words, over and over again in his mantra. Take a look at some of Goddard's quotes; "If you judge by appearances, you will continue to be enslaved by the evidences of your senses" which I think is a great observation. Then how about this one; "If a man looks upon another man and estimates himself better than the other, then he is stealing from this man, because he is stealing the birth-right of this man, that of equality" which I personally found captivating. But then I saw and read this; "man fails to do the works of Jesus Christ because he attempts to accomplish them from his present level of conciousness. You will never transcend your present level of conciousness through sacrifice & struggle" which is just plain wrong, as any devout and True Christian will inform you that one cannot be a Faithful follower in Christ Jesus in this Satanic material world with all its temptation without sacrificing (hence struggling) much, lest one succumb to their temptation at the risk of being forever lost (very dangerous teaching by Goddard).......Wayne Dyer is no different in that he sounds and looks like a thoroughly decent chap (innocent) unless you are very farmiliar with the Word of God ie Bible (our instructions). Dyer is readily exposed/identified as a 'new age' idealist who frequently takes Almighty God out of the equation in his works. An example being say, a Psalm/Hymn that has God's name replaced with an altogether different word such as 'love', but its done very subtly, so that very few realise what's actually being done to them. Dyer also professes to talk to the dead (which are in fact demons). Edgar Gacy was yet another prominent mystic that claimed he could predict the future, and other mystifying feats of wonder, when it is in fact 'demons' that are the one's feeding the information on. I recommend Derek Prince and his sermons on demons here and I refer you to Deuteronomy 18:10-12, for a better understanding of what not to do ie get yourself mixed up in, as it is vitally important that you know the Truth, which we know & understand as the Word of God.
"Be doers of the Word, and not hearers only" James 1:22
Then we have the likes of John Piper and C Sam Storms, along with the founding father of Calvinism John Calvin himself. I am only using these guys as an example of what to look out for with regards to 'deviating' from the Scriptures ie the Message of Jesus, as there are far too many to list them all, given that there are around 500+ denominations in the States alone, with many thousands more cited around the world. There is much to see & highlight here with regards John Piper. Firstly, many of his books do not sit well with myself (at a glance), most especially when I compare them to those of Derek Prince (who is where I go to for my spiritual guidance). Piper has books which feature gambling (how to play the stock market safely), which is just plain 'wrong' as gambling is addictive and has destroyed many lives. Secondly, there is 'idol' symbology in the form of Jesus being represented as a statue. Thirdly, there is an 'inverted' tree (reversing & inverting are telling traits of Satan). Fourthly, we see erroneous globe Earth pictures (the Scriptures make absolutely 'no' reference to anything that resembles a ball/sphere/globe or even core/centre of the Earth) and Piper also has many direct references to the Sun, not just in his books but art too, which again is dangerously close to Lucifer ie Satan worship. And lastly, Piper has somehow managed to write a detailed account on the current 'coronavirus' debacle, which has only been around the last 7-8 weeks and linked God & Jesus to this (his) narrative. 'Is' Piper attempting to prepare his followers for the Second Coming of Christ in this book by postulating that the Covid pandemic is An Act of God? Because if he is, you just make sure that the Christ Piper is referring to here is the 'real' one (you will know them by their fruits; these being Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Gentleness, Generosity, Self-Control, Faithfullness and of course 'Love').......'meekness' ie humility is also a telling trait to watch out for, as Satan's heart is full of pride/hubris.
"It is for freedom that Christ set us free" Galatians 5:1
I am now going to attempt and share with you some very telling number sequences for the purpose of identifying telling traits ie what I firmly believe to be are Satan's 'tag/hallmark'. If we start with C Sam Storms, it can be seen that C=3 and that Sam=6, where Storms=23 (the No:23 is most significant. If you add the 6 and 3 you get 32, which is No:23 reversed. You also have 3x6 or three sixes (666).......C=see, wheresas Sam=Uncle Sam (who is Baphomet ie Satan). Storms=tempest......."See Lucifer in the Storm".......in the Scripture narrative, Lucifer (Satan) was cast down to Earth in a tempest (storm) in the form of a lightning-bolt, to roam/wander the Earth.......I wouldn't be in the least bit surprised to learn that this C Sam Storms' name was anything 'but' what he claims it to be.
"For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil" Timothy 6:10
John Piper was born on 11/01/1946 which is No:23. The name Piper is 37, take 6+6+6 (or 18) and multiply by 37, you come to 666, the Mark of the Beast. Piper is also a direct ref to 'the' Pied Piper of Hamlin, who led the children of Hamlin away to their doom (many of the people of Hamlin believe the story to be True).......Piper is also a direct ref to the Olympian god Pan, a very powerful & influential god who played the Pan-pipes (research Pan). So, is John Piper leading the children of Almighty God up/down Satan's garden path? I noticed there was a book written recently by a Enoch Burke which expands more on the tenets of John Piper. Furthermore, when John Piper's slogan 'Desiring God' is looked at closer, it could be interpreted as de-siring God i.e. removing Jesus Christ from the narrative. Also, the word 'desire' itself stirs up images of temptation i.e. to crave/lust after (to my mind at least).......there is much more to look at that does not sit/feel right to me with regards John Piper, but the most telling part is probably the founder of Calvinism, John Calvin himself.......before I do that though, I would like to tell you if my experience with a Calvinist pastor, whom I knew briefly and got along very well with 'until' I realisec he was a Calvinist, whereupon I did some research and consequently asked him some probing/telling questions concerning his TULIP mantra, and then he (the pastor) got very defensive and steadfastly refused to talk about it. The big issue i have is the 'predestination' doctrine, which essentially states that 'no matter' who you are, once you are declared 'saved' (by who?) then you are 'always' saved.......even Derek Prince has talked of "that fateful day he realised he was saved" (and he may may well be right). I personally feel that Ron Wyatt is probably correct here with regards this crucial point, as he was incredibly humble, knew the Scriptures inside-out and was 'shown' many Biblical evidences to help confirm the Biblical narrative for the benefit of you & I.......Wyatt informs us that it is 'only' through Jesus Christ that we are saved i.e. that He, by His mercy & grace, has deemed us worthy of salvation.......furthermore, there is much Scripture to contradict this 'predestination & preservation of the Saints' doctrine of Calvinism and you 'only' need to use your God given sense (common sense) to realise the absurdity of it, as it does away with the sacred covenant of 'free will'.......lastly; C Sam Storms has written an article on behalf of John Piper's Ministry 'debunking' the Book of Revelation (the very last chapters in the Holy Bible story), which to my mind is just 'inconceivably' flat-out wrong, as the Book of Revelations has vitally critical information inside regarding End Time Prophecy, that not only warns us of what to expect in these very telling times, but also how to recognise the signs and what to avoid by way of 'deception' i.e. false prophets".
"For those with eyes to see and ears to hear, the Truth shall set you free" The Word of God
John Calvin, born 10/07/1509 which is No:23, the word Calvinism is 39, which can be read as 3x6 i.e. 666 (invert the 9, a trait of Satan's) and Calvinist is 37, add 6+6+6 and multiply by 37 and you get 666, the Mark of Satan.......Calvin was quoted often referring to Almighty God as the 'architect', which is a Freemasonic term for Lucifer (Satan). Search; John Calvin and Freemasonry, and take a good look at the images/info that pop-up. John Calvin was not welcome in his home country of origin (France) and went to Switzerland, where he quickly established himself and his new-found ideas (Calvinism), which we are informed grew popular very quickly, but tellingly, people who voiced their opinions against Calvinism, including famously Michael Serverus, found themselves being burnt at the stake for their 'insubordination' (many people, including poor Michael Servetus, were tricked by John Calvin under some pretence for the sole purpose of killing them, which was 'premeditated' murder and a rather unique way to start your Ministry).......does anyone out there Truly believe the Lord and His Son Jesus Christ would condone such a man?). There is much more damning evidence to strongly suggest Calvinism is not what it initially appears to be and it's no surprise Calvinist's 'shut up shop' when you attempt to talk to them about the foundations of their Calvinistic faith.
"If any person should take away or add to the words of the book of this Prophecy, they also shall have their name taken out of the Book of Life, and that of the Holy City (New Jerusalem)" Revelations 22:19
Please refer to other posts left on this forum which shed more light on the relevance/importance of numbers and their sequences, as it is with these numbered 'codes' that Freemasons & their ilk, communicate & identify each other & their works i.e. through mysticism, which is a form of magic/sorcery. The list of books are:
Kate Bush: The Biography by Rob Jovanovich.
Last Word: My Indictment of the CIA in the Murder of JFK by Mark Lane.
Saturn: A new look at an old Devil by Liz Greene.
Where there's doubt: Moon Landings by Craig Farley.
Scarlet and the Beast: A book about Freemasonry by John Daniels.
Space Invaders by William Schnoebelen.
It is important to state here that it is not my intention to cause division among Christian's, just spread the Word Faithfully & Truthfully in the eyes of the Lord Jesus, Who Himself informs us that He has not come to bring peace to the world, but that He comes with a sword to Judge the wicked, Mathew 10:34.......we are warned that many false teachers (prophets) will be among us in 2 Peter 2 and that we are to confirm every 'spirit' by acknowledging Jesus as Lord......."Faith is good only when it engages Truth, when it is made to rest upon falsehood it can and often does end in eternal tragedy." A W Tozer.
Through the blood of Jesus, all of our sins are forgiven.
Through the blood of Jesus, we are taken out of the hands of the devil.
As I continue to walk in the light, we are cleansed of all sin.
Through the blood of Jesus, we are justified, made righteous, just as if I had never sinned.
Through the blood of Jesus, we are sanctified, made holy, set apart to God. Amen.
It is my firm belief we will see the prophecied new world order & their one world religion by the year 2023, as all the evidence thus far points to this inevitable conclusion. The Lies & Deception are rife today.......If something looks as though it doesn't have any clothes on, then chances are it very probably hasn't.......Shalom.
May 10, 2019
Threads are, at times, left unexplained but Morris has done a nice job telling a story about a particular American phenomenon that deserves examination in light of "wellness" fads.
April 16, 2024
This book is a well-researched exploration of a proposed line of American Messianic communal cults from before the revolutionary war through to the Jonestown massacre. The author writes somewhat affectionately about his subjects and effectively highlights the socially progressive themes and accomplishments of the various groups such as women's rights, racial integration, health and wellness, hunger and poverty, and more.
I got a little glazed in the middle and at times struggled to keep track of people, places, and the overall narrative of the book, but the author drew me back in with Father Divine and Jim Jones. By the end, I actually got to thinking pretty deeply about all this.
It was beyond the scope of the author's intent to call upon the Christian Church to do anything differently. But I found myself often thinking about the story of Jesus entering into Jerusalem on a donkey. The crowds shouted "hosannah to the King" - a clear cry for justice and deliverance from oppression. When the powers that be told Jesus to stop them, he said that if they were silent, the very rocks would cry out.
This book got me thinking about how the Church has too often been silent in the face of so much injustice. We have failed to engage in the full breadth of the missio dei as God would have us. The cults described here are like so many rocks that refused to be silent in the face of systemic evils. To be sure, they were in fact the "false prophets" that the author calls them in his title. But their very existence betrays the fact that all to often, "true prophets" of the Messiah are no where to be found.
I got a little glazed in the middle and at times struggled to keep track of people, places, and the overall narrative of the book, but the author drew me back in with Father Divine and Jim Jones. By the end, I actually got to thinking pretty deeply about all this.
It was beyond the scope of the author's intent to call upon the Christian Church to do anything differently. But I found myself often thinking about the story of Jesus entering into Jerusalem on a donkey. The crowds shouted "hosannah to the King" - a clear cry for justice and deliverance from oppression. When the powers that be told Jesus to stop them, he said that if they were silent, the very rocks would cry out.
This book got me thinking about how the Church has too often been silent in the face of so much injustice. We have failed to engage in the full breadth of the missio dei as God would have us. The cults described here are like so many rocks that refused to be silent in the face of systemic evils. To be sure, they were in fact the "false prophets" that the author calls them in his title. But their very existence betrays the fact that all to often, "true prophets" of the Messiah are no where to be found.
April 3, 2020
I got the book because of its blurb, which sounds stupid because of course how else do you choose a book, but I feel like it's Important. The blurb made an appeal the uniquely American history of Messianic cults and their integral role in American history. That hooked me.
What followed over the course of many walks at night ( I listened to the audiobook) was a deeply informed, even handed assessment of the historical lineage of the American Messiah and communalism. It was informative and interesting, a solid 3 out of 5.
It wasn't until the epilogue that I realized the point of this orderly walk I had taken through 300 years. While I focused on the Advent, rise, and fall of each leader in time and their influence on the next Messiah to come, I didn't really think of it in the larger context of what America was doing, where it was heading, and why these teachings could resonant decade after decade.
I had read and loved an in depth Jones biography about 2 years ago. I kinda wish I had this book first so I had a better understanding of the full faith he took on.
What followed over the course of many walks at night ( I listened to the audiobook) was a deeply informed, even handed assessment of the historical lineage of the American Messiah and communalism. It was informative and interesting, a solid 3 out of 5.
It wasn't until the epilogue that I realized the point of this orderly walk I had taken through 300 years. While I focused on the Advent, rise, and fall of each leader in time and their influence on the next Messiah to come, I didn't really think of it in the larger context of what America was doing, where it was heading, and why these teachings could resonant decade after decade.
I had read and loved an in depth Jones biography about 2 years ago. I kinda wish I had this book first so I had a better understanding of the full faith he took on.
March 11, 2022
I’ve always been interested in American minority religions and cults, particularly those that formed in the country’s early years - probably because I was raised in one that was referenced several times in this book but (disappointingly!) never fully explored.
Basically, I was sold on “American Messiahs” right away. But unfortunately there isn’t a lot of heft and weight to this book. It’s a good compendium of American messianic groups from the 18th century through the 1970s, and some of the groups covered are interesting and were previously unknown to me. Stringing then all together is a rather anemic thesis about how messianic groups were an important vehicle for pushing back against American capitalism and allowing creative and alternative thinking to flourish.
There were some interesting points made in “American Messiahs,” particularly around communal living. But I couldn’t escape the impression that the author was picking some groups and ignoring others to prove his thesis rather than dealing with what’s actually there. And he takes large sidesteps around the more problematic aspects of these and other groups hyper-focused on one charismatic leader.
It’s a good place to start if you want to learn about some of the more obscure religious groups in American history, but there just isn’t a ton of further insight.
Basically, I was sold on “American Messiahs” right away. But unfortunately there isn’t a lot of heft and weight to this book. It’s a good compendium of American messianic groups from the 18th century through the 1970s, and some of the groups covered are interesting and were previously unknown to me. Stringing then all together is a rather anemic thesis about how messianic groups were an important vehicle for pushing back against American capitalism and allowing creative and alternative thinking to flourish.
There were some interesting points made in “American Messiahs,” particularly around communal living. But I couldn’t escape the impression that the author was picking some groups and ignoring others to prove his thesis rather than dealing with what’s actually there. And he takes large sidesteps around the more problematic aspects of these and other groups hyper-focused on one charismatic leader.
It’s a good place to start if you want to learn about some of the more obscure religious groups in American history, but there just isn’t a ton of further insight.
May 26, 2019
I enjoyed this book immensely on multiple levels. To begin with, it's a vivid history of (mostly) obscure, fascinating characters with lives that deserve to be remembered for all the things they illuminate religion, spirituality, politics, social and economic inequality, and countless other things. Beyond that, it shines an important spotlight on an overlooked or often misunderstood thread of American history, illuminating aspects of the country's story without which the past and present don't really make sense. Lastly, the voice of the book is an entertaining high-wire act by which Morris both skewers his subjects for their frequent ridiculousness, not to mention mendacity and even evil in the case of Jim Jones, yet also takes them seriously and respects them for the earnest and meaningful works they did inarguably pursue. A t0ur de force.
August 28, 2019
Zero stars. The book description: “... culminating in 1978 with Jim Jones...”. So you would think the author would have done some research, at the least on Jim Jones. Made it to page 5 of the introduction and have to mark it DNF. “...led more than 900 of his congregants in mass suicide...”. Jonestown wasnt a site of mass suicide. Soldiers at the community forced those who didnt willingly kill themselves to drink or they were injected against their will (namely babies and young children); others who tried to escape were shot. How could this author not know this? Especially if the author is claiming to reference this time in history to make his point? Sounded like it could have been a good book but to have so obvious an error so early on, who knows how many other mistakes lurk in these pages?
October 3, 2019
A little dry, but in an admirable way. Morris lays out a very nuanced argument regarding the true threat of messianic figures: while individual messianic leaders themselves may be problematic and sometimes dangerous, it is in providing a genuine workable alternative to traditional institutional power, and those values that enable and structure said power, that their true threat emerges. Adams also utilizes quite adroitly the "show don't tell" maxim in making these points, especially when drawing parallels to our contemporary era, which he does almost entirely beneath the surface.
July 28, 2023
"Overthrowing capitalism with a communist mop factory proved impossible." is by far the funniest line in here and the only snarky one I've found. Somehow it is very apt though for these commune summarized within. The book looks at them as communes rather than cults and is mostly non-judgmental. They are clearly guided by insane gobbledygook to me but share some progressive doctrines which is interesting. Also there were mediums/spiritualists and they seemed to always push for more progressive ideas through their trances, kind of surprising.
July 19, 2024
While I enjoyed this book I found myself wishing more of it was as insightful and nuanced as the introduction and epilogue. The body of the work, while informative, didn’t seem interested in analyzing these various American messianic figures or their commonalities, only with reporting their activities and beliefs. I believe this book could have been improved by the addition of even a brief analysis, perhaps at the end of each section, connecting each “messiah” to the larger messianic tradition and delving into the specific conditions that lead to the rise of each figure.
December 4, 2020
I got halfway through this book, and I had to DNF it. It just wasn't what I hoped it would be. I don't know if I just wasn't in the mood for it or what, but it seemed a bit dry. The title led me to believe there would be a bit more analysis about what causes the U.S. to be so rife for cults. This seemed more like a well-done research paper, it didn't capture my attention. It may be me, so I gave it to a friend. I fully disclosed my feelings
March 18, 2021
Lots of good information here, but I think the editors fell down a bit on their end. Too often interesting information is sort of splattered about on the page. Topics just appear without context, and it was hard to keep it coherent in my brain. I learned a lot, credit to Adam Morris, who did solid research, but I think it would have benefited with about 50 more pages and a more thoughtful red pen.
February 14, 2022
Lots of names and defining conditions connected with the religious movements around self-professed messiahs proved too tough for me to keep straight. I was only familiar with Father Diving and Jim Jones among the six or so Morris detailed.
Despite my struggles, the book was fascinating from the unintentional consequence of offering reasons so many people today believe conspiracy theories and information so easily contradicted by evidence.
Despite my struggles, the book was fascinating from the unintentional consequence of offering reasons so many people today believe conspiracy theories and information so easily contradicted by evidence.
July 12, 2019
A fascinating deep dive into the lengthy history of Messianic socialist groups in the U.S. Surprisingly queer, pro-socialism and chock full of intense detail, this wasn't my breeziest read of 2019, but quite enjoyable; it really picks up from the introduction of Father Divine through the end. Recommended, especially for those into reading about cults.
May 9, 2019
This book is as much an exploration of the failures of mainstream Christian religions in the face of greater regard for unfettered capitalism as it is an overview of messianic cults in America since the revolution.
July 7, 2019
One unimportant thing is that this book is full of people with ridiculous names changing them to even more ridiculous names, i.e. "[..]after joining the commune Zebulon Taft officially adopted the name Onward Heavenly Hedge Maze".
October 30, 2019
A hard book to put down.A detailed and well researched account of ersatz religious leaders who paved the way for other charlatans to come.Adam Morris's book is filled with interesting events that illustrate the gullibility of the people whether they are rich or poor.
March 12, 2020
A fascinating examination of messianic cults with a socialist bent. I was particularly interested in the section on Cyrus Teed and the Koreshans. The willingness of people throughout history to follow a charismatic leader never disappoints.
August 11, 2021
I really wanted to like this book. Great topic and very well researched. However, there is no architecture to the book, no explanation for why the author chose the 4-5 "messiahs" he wrote about and no substantive conclusions.
July 23, 2024
Far too many minor details about these communities. Reads like the author had to hit a certain word count. First chapter is great though, the Public Universal Friend is the best messiah covered in the whole book.
April 23, 2019
An interesting look at communal messianic cults in U.S. history. It starts with the Universal Public Friend and the Shakers and ends with Jim Jones.
June 5, 2019
Well researched and did a good job tying the movements together thematically to develop a larger picture of millennialism in American history. Each group was also interesting on its own.
July 4, 2019
a bit dry in parts but fascinating overall
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