EP.848 Mass Deception Part 6: From Azusa to Latter Rain: How Deception Spread in the Church

Host Jeff Shepard traces the occult roots and the theological drift from early spiritualist influences through Azusa Street into the mid-20th century Latter Rain movement. He explains how promises of spiritual awakening and Christ-consciousness were repackaged into new doctrines and leadership structures that elevated extra-biblical revelation above Scripture. The episode examines William Branham and his influence on the 1948 revival in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, outlining Branham’s controversial teachings—denial of the Trinity, the serpent-seed doctrine, elevation of the zodiac and pyramids as supplemental scriptures, staged healing practices, and claims to prophetic authority. Shepard connects this stream to the development of the Latter Rain teaching that restored apostles and prophets could supersede Scripture and produce “manifest sons of God” who would usher in God’s kingdom on earth. Shepard traces the Latter Rain’s influence into the Voice of Healing movement, the Charismatic Renewal, the Word of Faith movement, the New Apostolic Reformation, the Seven Mountain Mandate, and contemporary Kingdom Now theology. He highlights how typological readings of Scripture, extra-biblical revelations, and elite apostolic authority led to dominionist ambitions and spiritualized eschatology that clash with clear biblical warnings. The episode cites key scriptural cautions (1 Timothy 4; 2 Timothy 4; Luke 18:8) about falling away, deceptive teachings, and the danger of seeking teachers who tickle the ears. Yet Shepard emphasizes hope: genuine seekers can still meet the real Jesus—illustrated by two children healed at Azusa Street—even in mixed environments. He urges listeners to test everything, anchor themselves in the unchanging Word of God, be Bereans, and cultivate discernment so imitations cannot deceive. Shepard previews continuing exploration of modern expressions of this stream in future episodes and closes with pastoral encouragement to love God, family, and neighbor while making a difference in the community. Thank you for Listening!. Prayerfully consider investing support to continue spreading the word. ZPlease like, subscribe and share. Click Here for all links, Right on Community ROC, Podcast web links, Freebies, Products (healing mushrooms, EMP Protection) Social media, courses and more...https://linktr.ee/RightonRadio Live Right in the Real World! We talk God and Politics, Faith Based Broadcast News, views, Opinions and Attitudes Keep the Faith