Shincheonji and “Persecution”
Shincheonji tends to be hyper-sensitive to disagreement, so much so to the point that any form of criticism is often labeled as “persecution”.
Conflating Criticism with Persecution
While Shincheonji members may face some legitimate persecution, they often label any criticism or questioning of their beliefs as “persecution”. This stance stifles open dialogue and prevents honest examination of their teachings. Shincheonji believes that there is no legitimate reason for anyone to leave, even when pointing out doctrinal flaws. They assert that anyone who speaks out against them is filled with “seven evil spirits” and is persecuting them.
The Creation of Heaven and Earth, page 355
“Those who have left their positions and homes within the twelve tribes of Shincheonji to deceive, cause division, create their own sects, and oppose God are antichrists that have united with the spirit of Satan”.
Demonizing Those Who Leave
Shincheonji teaches that there is no valid reason to leave the group, claiming that those who depart are “antichrists” united with Satan. This extreme view ignores legitimate concerns and doctrinal issues raised by former members.
The Creation of Heaven and Earth, pg 189
Anyone who interferes with those who are trying to find the Promised Pastor are united with the devil.
Attributing Disagreement to Evil Spirits
The group claims that those who doubt or critique Shincheonji are influenced by “seven evil spirits”. This unfairly dismisses valid theological arguments and creates an us-vs-them mentality.
Harsh Treatment of Dissenters
Former members, even long-serving leaders, can face sudden excommunication and shunning. This practice contradicts Christian principles of forgiveness and reconciliation.
An example of this would be the church leader of Los Angeles, who, despite his service of 20 plus years to Shincheonji, was thrown out of the church without prior notice, and anyone who spoke to him would also be thrown out.
Discouraging Critical Thinking
By framing all opposition as satanic, Shincheonji discourages members from critically examining their doctrines, contrary to biblical examples of testing teachings (Acts 17:11).
Misunderstanding Christian Grace
Their harsh treatment of former members shows a failure to grasp core Christian concepts like the parable of the prodigal son, which emphasizes forgiveness and acceptance.
The Creation of Heaven and Earth page 302
The children of Satan (the weeds) will be left behind in their churches. At the time of Jesus’ first coming, the Pharisees and Sadducees prevented people from going to Jesus, who was testifying the gospel of heaven… Even today, pastors are preventing people from moving toward the one testifying the physical fulfillment of the New Testament. These pastors accomplish their goals by calling the promised pastor a cult leader.
These practices reveal a concerning pattern of control and manipulation within Shincheonji. By shutting down dissent and demonizing critics, the group insulates itself from legitimate scrutiny and potentially leads followers astray from authentic Christian teachings.