The intertwining of faith and authority can lead to profound spiritual journeys, both uplifting and painful. For many believers, the concept of church should be a sanctuary, yet for some, it can devolve into a source of confusion and spiritual abuse.
In a recent discussion, musician John Cooper of the band Skillet opened up about his experiences with the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) and the spiritual abuse he faced within his church. His journey highlights the critical importance of doctrinal transparency and the potential consequences of unchecked church authority.
Cooper's story is not just an individual account; it reflects a broader epidemic within the church that transcends denominational lines. His insights serve as a wake-up call for congregations everywhere regarding the significance of sound theology and accountability.
The Dangers of NAR Theology
Cooper describes the NAR movement as a significant force within contemporary Christianity, emphasizing its hierarchical structure that can lead to spiritual abuse. He notes that the authority often rests with self-proclaimed apostles, who claim to have unique insight from God.
"There's a lot of good things in the church," Cooper explains, yet he warns that the lack of accountability can create an environment where abuse can thrive. He emphasizes that this structure is not confined to charismatic churches but can be found in various forms across denominations.
"The widespread amount of people from Australia, New Zealand, Europe, saying, 'Oh my gosh, I went through this too,' is gigantic. It's an epidemic, and it's happening in every corner of the church."
Ep 1397 | The Cult-like NAR Church That Nearly Destroyed John Cooper"
Cooper's experience reveals a troubling aspect of NAR theology: the belief that modern apostles hold authority equivalent to biblical apostles. This notion can distort the church's understanding of scripture and lead to the manipulation of congregants.
Spiritual Abuse: A Personal Account
Cooper recounts his struggle with his former church, where he felt increasingly alienated for questioning doctrinal issues and the church's response to societal events. The leadership's refusal to engage with critical questions about their teachings left him feeling isolated and spiritually bullied.
As he began to articulate his concerns, he faced accusations of being divisive. This tactic, often wielded in church settings, serves to silence dissent and maintain a facade of unity at the cost of genuine dialogue.
"I was told that speaking up about something is sowing division within the body. That is an effective intimidation tactic for those who really don't want to be divisive."
Ep 1397 | The Cult-like NAR Church That Nearly Destroyed John Cooper"
This manipulation created an environment where questioning authority became synonymous with betrayal, further complicating Cooper's relationship with his church and its leaders.