Opening Scene: The Coffee Shop Conversation

Picture a coffee shop. You’re sitting across from someone you care about who’s been studying with a new group. You’ve noticed changes—they’re more secretive, busier, using new religious vocabulary.

“So tell me about this Bible study you’ve been attending. What have you learned?”

They lean forward, eyes brightening. “We’re learning about the revealed word and how prophecy is being fulfilled in our time.”

“That sounds interesting. Can you give me an example?”

“Well, Revelation talks about the one who overcomes, and we’re learning about how that’s been fulfilled.”

“Okay, but what does that mean? How has it been fulfilled?”

“Through the testimony of the promised pastor who witnessed the events of Revelation.”

You try again: “But specifically, what events? What did he witness?”

“The betrayal at the Tabernacle Temple and the fulfillment of Revelation 2 and 3.”

“Can you explain what happened there? In your own words?”

There’s a pause. They repeat the same phrases, rearranged slightly. You realize they’re not explaining—they’re reciting.

You’ve just encountered what we might call the “fog machine” in action.

They said many words. They sounded confident, even passionate. They used impressive terminology. But they struggled to explain it in their own words. And if you’re not paying close attention, you might walk away thinking they understand something profound.

This pattern appears in how some high-control groups—including Shincheonji Church of Jesus (SCJ)—sometimes train members to share what they’ve learned. Members may deploy rehearsed responses that sound authoritative but become unclear when pressed for personal understanding.

Another Example: The Press Conference

Picture a press conference. A company CEO stands at a podium, flanked by lawyers and PR specialists. Reporters lean forward, notebooks ready.

“Mr. Johnson, can you explain exactly how your company’s accounting practices led to the $50 million discrepancy?”

The CEO clears his throat. “Well, you see, we operate within a complex framework of financial instruments that interface with multiple stakeholder ecosystems. Our methodology reflects industry-standard paradigms while maintaining fiscal responsibility across all operational matrices.”

A reporter tries again: “But specifically, where did the $50 million go?”

“As I said, our integrated approach to resource allocation follows established protocols. We’re committed to transparency within the appropriate regulatory frameworks.”

Another reporter: “That’s not an answer. Can you give us specific numbers?”

“I think what’s important here is understanding the broader context of our mission-driven values and our commitment to excellence…”

You’ve just witnessed another version of the fog machine.

The CEO said many words. He sounded confident, even authoritative. He used impressive terminology. But he said very little of substance. And if you’re not paying close attention, you might walk away thinking you got an answer.

This same pattern appears in various contexts—including how some high-control groups like SCJ may respond when pressed for evidence, specifics, or accountability. Vagueness can function as a tactical tool, and it often works more effectively than we might expect.

When Politicians Use the Fog Machine

Similar tactics appear in political rhetoric:

Politician: “We need to restore American values and make our country great again.”

Reporter: “Specifically, which policies will you implement?”

Politician: “We’re going to bring back the principles that made this nation strong—the values our founders believed in.”

Reporter: “Yes, but what specific legislation are you proposing?”

Politician: “What the American people want is leadership that puts their interests first, and that’s exactly what we’re going to deliver.”

Notice the pattern:

• Sounds patriotic and inspiring
• Uses emotionally resonant language
• Offers little specific information
• Makes accountability difficult

Why it can work:

Each listener may project their own values onto the vague language. Conservative listeners might hear “traditional values.” Progressive listeners might hear “founding principles of equality.” People often hear what they want to hear.

A similar technique in SCJ:

“Lee Man-hee is fulfilling Revelation and establishing God’s kingdom.”

• Sounds biblical and prophetic
• Uses religiously resonant language
• Offers little verifiable information
• Makes testing difficult

Each student may project their own understanding of “fulfillment” onto the claim.

The Corporate Vagueness Playbook

Tech Company CEO: “We’re leveraging AI-driven solutions to create synergistic value propositions that disrupt traditional paradigms and deliver unprecedented customer engagement metrics.”

Investor: “Okay, but what does your product actually do?”

CEO: “We’re building a platform that integrates cutting-edge machine learning algorithms with user-centric design principles to optimize the digital experience across multiple touchpoints.”

Investor: “Right, but specifically, what problem does it solve?”

CEO: “We’re addressing the fundamental challenges facing modern enterprises in the digital transformation landscape.”

What may be happening: “I’m hoping you’re too intimidated to keep asking.”

This pattern appears in SCJ as well:

Student: “How do we know Lee Man-hee is the promised pastor?”

Instructor: “He received the revealed word and testified to the fulfilled reality of Revelation’s prophecies.”

Student: “Yes, but how do we verify this?”

Instructor: “By comparing the physical fulfillment with the biblical prophecies through the lens of the revealed word.”

Student: “But that seems circular—we’re using his interpretation to prove his interpretation is correct.”

Instructor: “You need to complete the Revelation course to fully understand the depth of the fulfillment.”

What may be happening: “I can’t answer your question clearly, but I hope you’ll stop asking.”

The Cult of Personality Parallel

Throughout history, authoritarian systems have sometimes used vagueness to maintain power:

Example: North Korean propaganda about Kim Jong-un:

• “The Supreme Leader has mystical powers”
• “He can control the weather”
• “He doesn’t need to use the bathroom”
• “He is the embodiment of the nation’s spirit”

Notice:

• Vague, unfalsifiable claims
• Creates aura of supernatural authority
• Discourages questioning (who can question someone with mystical powers?)
• Isolates from reality (can’t verify any of it)

A parallel pattern in SCJ:

• “Lee Man-hee is the promised pastor”
• “He has received the revealed word”
• “He is the one who overcomes”
• “He is establishing God’s kingdom”

Similar structure:

• Vague, unfalsifiable claims
• Creates aura of spiritual authority
• Discourages questioning (who can question God’s chosen one?)
• Isolates from verification (can’t check any of it)

What This Means Practically

Vagueness can be a tool of authoritarian systems, whether political or religious. It may maintain power by preventing accountability.

What This Means Psychologically

When we accept vague claims about a leader without asking for specifics, we may be limiting our ability to evaluate that leader critically.

What Is Strategic Vagueness?

Strategic vagueness refers to the use of ambiguous, abstract, or non-specific language that can create the impression of knowledge while potentially avoiding genuine explanation. Sometimes this may be deliberate—a tactic taught by an organization. But often it appears to be unconscious—the person may genuinely believe they understand something they’ve primarily memorized.

How It Can Function:

• Masking incomplete understanding – It’s difficult to explain in detail what we haven’t fully grasped ourselves
• Maintaining mystique – Vagueness can create an aura of “deep spiritual knowledge” that seems beyond ordinary comprehension
• Shifting the burden – May make the questioner feel inadequate for “not understanding” rather than placing responsibility on the explainer to be clear
• Preventing examination – Makes fact-checking difficult when specific claims aren’t clearly stated
• Creating dependency – Can keep followers returning to “those who know” for interpretation rather than developing their own understanding

Expert Perspective

Dr. Steven Hassan, in Combatting Cult Mind Control, identifies related patterns as a key element of Information Control within his BITE Model:

“Destructive cults minimize or discourage access to non-cult sources of information… They also use loaded language and thought-stopping clichés to make it difficult for members to think critically about the group’s beliefs.”

Vagueness can function similarly to loaded language—words that sound meaningful but may become unclear under scrutiny. More importantly, vagueness sometimes suggests that the speaker hasn’t personally processed or encountered what they’re describing—they may be repeating what they’ve been taught to say rather than sharing from personal understanding.

Example 1: The Reddit Response Pattern

On the r/Shincheonji subreddit, there’s a noticeable pattern in how some current members respond to questions about SCJ’s teachings:

Question from skeptic: “Can you explain specifically what happened at the Tabernacle Temple that fulfills Revelation 2-3?”

Typical response: “The seven stars who were chosen by God betrayed and accepted false doctrine from the Nicolaitans. The one who overcomes testified to this betrayal and fulfilled Revelation 12:11.”

Follow-up: “Okay, but who were these people? What were their names? What specifically did they do?”

Response: “They were the pastors at the Tabernacle Temple who were initially chosen but then betrayed God’s work.”

Follow-up: “You’re repeating the same thing. Can you give me actual names and specific actions?”

Response: “The names are mentioned in our materials as Mr. [Last name], but what’s important is understanding the spiritual reality of the fulfillment.”

Follow-up: “But if this is the fulfillment of biblical prophecy, shouldn’t it be as verifiable as Jesus’ crucifixion? We know Pontius Pilate’s name, we know the location, we know the date. Why can’t you provide the same level of detail?”

Response: “This is spiritual fulfillment. You need to study the entire curriculum to understand how it all connects.”

What This Pattern Suggests:

• Each answer tends to avoid the specific question
• The responder often loops back to memorized phrases
• When pressed, they may deflect to “study more” or “it’s spiritual”
• They struggle to provide a clear, personal explanation

Example 2: The “Personal Testimony” That Isn’t Personal

A more revealing pattern can appear when asking about personal transformation:

You: “You’ve been studying for months now. How has this changed your life personally?”

Them: “I’ve learned the revealed word and understand prophecy now.”

You: “That’s great, but what does that mean for you? How are you different?”

Them: “I can see how Revelation is being fulfilled in our time.”

You: “Okay, but how has that changed how you live? Your relationships? Your understanding of God?”

Them: “I’m preparing to be part of God’s kingdom and learning the truth.”

You: “I hear you using these phrases, but I’m asking about YOU. Can you share a specific moment when something clicked for you? When you felt God’s presence? When your life actually changed?”

[Long pause. They may struggle to answer without using curriculum language.]

This can be one of the most telling forms of vagueness—the difficulty in sharing personal transformation, which might suggest there hasn’t been a deep personal encounter, but rather primarily information transfer.

Example 3: The Moving Target in Online Discussions

From actual Reddit exchanges (paraphrased):

Skeptic: “SCJ announced the 144,000 was complete in 2012, then again in 2013, then said it’s ongoing. Which is it?”

SCJ defender: “The sealing is a process that’s being completed according to God’s timeline.”

Skeptic: “But you made specific announcements. Were those wrong?”

SCJ defender: “The understanding of the fulfillment develops as events unfold. We’re learning in real-time.”

Skeptic: “So the announcements were premature?”

SCJ defender: “We don’t go beyond what is written. Everything happens at the proper time.”

Skeptic: “That’s not an answer. Did SCJ make false announcements or not?”

SCJ defender: “You’re focusing on the wrong things. The important thing is that prophecy is being fulfilled.”

What This Exchange Might Reveal:

• Difficulty in directly acknowledging errors
• Shifting the topic when pressed
• Using thought-stopping phrases (“don’t go beyond what is written,” “proper time”)
• Suggesting the questioner is missing the point
• Avoiding a direct answer to the direct question

It’s worth noting that this pattern may reflect genuine confusion or cognitive dissonance on the part of the defender—they may be struggling to reconcile contradictory information themselves, rather than intentionally evading the question.

When Someone Starts Responding Vaguely: What Might Be Happening

When you ask a direct question and receive a vague answer, something significant may be occurring beneath the surface. Understanding this can help you respond more effectively and compassionately.

The Practical Meaning: What Vagueness May Signal

1. They May Not Fully Understand What They’re Saying

What it looks like:

You ask: “Can you explain what ‘eating the scroll’ means in Revelation 10?”

They respond: “It means receiving the revealed word spiritually.”

You ask: “Okay, but what does that mean practically? What happened?”

They respond: “The promised pastor received the opened scroll from Jesus through the angel.”

You ask: “Can you explain that without using those exact phrases? What actually occurred?”

[They struggle. They repeat the same phrases. They can’t translate it into plain language.]

What this might practically mean:

• They’ve memorized terminology without fully processing it
• They’re repeating what they were taught without deeply examining it
• They may not have personally verified or experienced what they’re describing
• The information may lack concrete meaning

How to recognize it:

• They use the same phrases repeatedly, like following a script
• They struggle to explain it in different words
• They become flustered when you ask them to clarify
• They fall back on “I’m still learning” or “it’s deep”

A compassionate response:

“I notice you keep using the same phrases. Can I ask you something? Do you feel like you truly understand this, or are you repeating what you were taught? Because I’m genuinely trying to understand, and I need you to help me by explaining it in a way that shows me YOU understand it. If you’re not sure yourself, that’s completely okay to admit.”

2. They May Be Protecting Information They’ve Been Told Not to Share

What it looks like:

You ask: “Who were the seven stars at the Tabernacle Temple?”

They respond: “They were the pastors who were chosen but then betrayed.”

You ask: “What were their names?”

They respond: “The materials refer to them as Mr. [Last name]. For legal reasons, full names aren’t always disclosed publicly, but the people are real and the events are documented.”

You ask: “Can you tell me the full names so I can research this myself?”

They respond: “You’ll learn more details as you progress through the curriculum. Right now, focus on understanding the spiritual principles.”

What this might practically mean:

• Information may be gatekept—released in stages
• They may have been instructed on what to share and what to withhold
• They might fear consequences for revealing “advanced” information too early
• The organization may control the narrative by controlling information flow

How to recognize it:

• They say “that’s for later levels” or “you’ll learn that in advanced class”
• They become uncomfortable or defensive when pressed
• They invoke authority: “Only the instructor can explain that properly”
• They redirect: “Let’s focus on what you’re learning now”

A compassionate response:

“I appreciate that there’s a curriculum structure, but here’s my concern: Jesus spoke openly to everyone. He said in John 18:20, ‘I have spoken openly to the world… I said nothing in secret.’ If this is God’s truth, why might it need to be hidden behind levels? Do you know the full information yourself, or are you also waiting to learn it?”

3. A Direct Answer Might Expose Contradictions or Weaknesses

What it looks like:

You ask: “If the 144,000 represents those who have SCJ’s doctrine sealed in their minds, and SCJ has over 200,000 members now, does that mean not everyone in SCJ is part of the 144,000?”

They respond: “The sealing is known only to the promised pastor. We focus on being faithful and studying diligently.”

You ask: “But that doesn’t answer my question. Are there SCJ members who aren’t part of the 144,000?”

They respond: “Only Jesus reveals to the promised pastor who is sealed. We can’t go beyond what is written.”

You ask: “But you’re claiming to be gathering the 144,000. How do you know you’re gathering them if only one person knows who they are and he’s not telling anyone?”

They respond: “We trust in God’s timing and the promised pastor’s testimony. Everything will be revealed at the proper time.”

What this might practically mean:

• A direct answer could reveal logical inconsistencies
• They may be avoiding cognitive dissonance—both for themselves and you
• The organization may have shifted positions without acknowledging it
• Specificity would make the claim testable (and possibly falsifiable)

How to recognize it:

• They reframe the question to avoid the contradiction
• They use thought-stopping phrases: “proper time,” “don’t go beyond what’s written,” “trust the process”
• They minimize the importance of the specific detail you’re asking about
• They suggest you’re “focusing on the wrong thing”

A compassionate response:

“I hear you using these phrases—’proper time,’ ‘don’t go beyond what’s written,’ ‘only the promised pastor knows.’ But can I be honest? These phrases seem to stop questions rather than answer them. And I’m wondering if you’ve noticed that too. When you ask yourself these same questions privately, do you get real answers? Or do you also just repeat these phrases and hope it will make sense eventually?”

4. They Genuinely Don’t Understand It Themselves

What it looks like:

You ask: “How do you know you’re sealed?”

They respond: “By studying faithfully and receiving the revealed word.”

You ask: “But what does ‘sealed’ actually mean? How do you know when it’s happened?”

They respond: “It means having the truth in your mind and heart.”

You ask: “Okay, but how do you know you have it? Is there a moment when you know? A confirmation?”

They respond: “I… I’m still learning. I think it’s about completing the curriculum and understanding everything.”

You ask: “So you don’t actually know if you’re sealed yet?”

They respond: “Only the promised pastor knows. We just have to be faithful.”

What this might practically mean:

• They may have accepted the teaching without fully understanding it
• They might be relying on authority rather than personal comprehension
• They may assume the vagueness will resolve with more study
• They could be experiencing the “illusion of explanatory depth”—thinking they understand more than they do

How to recognize it:

• They repeat phrases from curriculum verbatim
• They struggle to explain it in their own words
• They become visibly uncertain when pressed
• They admit they’re “still learning” but can’t articulate what they DO understand

A compassionate response:

“I really appreciate your honesty in saying you’re still learning. Can I share something I’ve noticed? You’ve been studying for [X months/years], and you’re telling me about what seems like the most important spiritual truth—being sealed as part of the 144,000—but you’re uncertain about how you know if you’ve achieved it. Does that concern you at all? If this is so important, wouldn’t you expect to have more clarity about it by now?”

The Psychological Meaning: What May Be Happening Internally

1. Cognitive Dissonance Reduction

The psychological reality:

When someone holds two potentially contradictory beliefs (e.g., “I believe SCJ has the truth” + “I can’t answer basic questions about SCJ’s claims”), the mind can experience discomfort. Vagueness may function as a defense mechanism that reduces this discomfort.

What might be happening internally:

• “If I don’t give specifics, I can’t be proven wrong”
• “If I keep it vague, I don’t have to confront the contradictions”
• “If I use spiritual language, I can maintain my belief system”

The psychological function:

Vagueness may protect their worldview from collapse. Specific answers might force them to acknowledge problems they’re not ready to face.

Your role:

Gently invite them to explore what vagueness might be protecting them from—not to hurt them, but to help them face what they may be avoiding:

“I notice that when I ask specific questions, the answers sometimes become more vague. And I’m wondering if that might be because there are doubts you don’t want to face. What if we explored them together? What if it’s okay to say ‘I don’t know’ or ‘This doesn’t make sense to me either’?”

2. Identity Protection

The psychological reality:

Their identity may now be tied to being “someone who understands the revealed word.” Admitting they don’t know something could feel threatening to this identity.

What might be happening internally:

• “If I say ‘I don’t know,’ I’m admitting I’m not as spiritually mature as I thought”
• “If I can’t answer this, maybe I’m not really ‘sealed’ or special”
• “My value in this community seems to come from understanding—I can’t show ignorance”

The psychological function:

Vagueness may allow them to maintain their identity as an “insider” without exposing knowledge gaps.

Your role:

Affirm their worth apart from their knowledge:

“You know what I appreciate about you? You’ve always been someone who seeks truth. That’s why I’m asking these questions—not to make you feel bad, but because I know YOU care about truth. And real truth doesn’t require you to pretend you understand something you don’t. Real truth welcomes honest questions. So can we be honest together?”

3. Fear of Doubt

The psychological reality:

Giving a specific answer that might be challenged could trigger their own doubts. Vagueness may keep doubt at bay.

What might be happening internally:

• “If I think too hard about this question, I might start doubting”
• “If I can’t answer this, maybe the whole thing isn’t true”
• “I need to avoid this line of thinking to protect my faith”

The psychological function:

Vagueness may function as a thought-stopping technique that prevents critical examination.

Your role:

Normalize doubt as part of genuine faith:

“Can I tell you something? Doubt isn’t necessarily the opposite of faith—it can be part of honest faith. Thomas doubted, and Jesus didn’t condemn him—He showed him evidence. If what you believe is true, your doubts won’t destroy it—they might strengthen it by testing it. But if you’re afraid to doubt, if you have to keep your questions buried, that might not be faith—that might be fear. And I don’t think God wants you to live in fear.”

The Missing Testimony: When Evangelism Has No Personal Story

Before we explore specific response strategies, there’s something worth noticing about how SCJ members often approach sharing their faith:

They typically don’t share personal testimonies—they invite you to a Bible study.

Think about that for a moment. When was the last time an SCJ member sat down with you and said:

• “Let me tell you how my life was transformed”
• “Here’s what Jesus has done for me personally”
• “I was lost, and now I’m found—let me tell you my story”
• “God changed my heart in this specific way”

Instead, what do they often say?

• “Would you like to study the Bible?”
• “We have a really good Bible study program”
• “You should come check out this class”
• “There’s a teacher who can explain the Bible really clearly”

Do you see the difference?

Biblical evangelism tends to be testimony-driven. It’s personal. It’s about what God has done in your life.

The Samaritan woman at the well didn’t say to her town, “There’s a teacher by the well—you should go take His class.” She said, “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?” (John 4:29). That’s personal testimony.

Paul didn’t travel around the Roman Empire saying, “Enroll in my discipleship program.” He said, “I was a persecutor of the church, and Jesus appeared to me on the Damascus road and transformed my life” (Acts 22:3-21, Acts 26:4-23). That’s personal testimony.

Peter didn’t tell the crowds at Pentecost, “Come to our Bible study.” He proclaimed, “This Jesus, whom you crucified, God has raised from the dead, and we are all witnesses of it” (Acts 2:32). That’s personal testimony.

The Great Commission says, “Go and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19)—not “Go and recruit people to a program.”

1 Peter 3:15 instructs believers: “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

Notice: “the reason for the HOPE that YOU have.” Not “the reason for the organization you belong to.” Not “the curriculum you’re studying.” The hope YOU personally possess.

If someone has truly encountered the truth, if they’ve truly been transformed by the gospel, if they truly have something life-changing to share—wouldn’t they naturally want to share THEIR story?

Imagine you discovered the cure for cancer. Would you say, “Hey, there’s a really good medical class you should attend”? Or would you say, “I HAD CANCER AND I’M HEALED! Let me tell you what happened! This saved my life!”

That’s the difference between genuine encounter with truth and programmatic recruitment.

Strategy 1: Ask for Personal Testimony, Not Curriculum Content

How it works:

When someone tries to invite you to Bible study or explain SCJ teachings, gently redirect to their personal experience.

Example dialogue:

Them: “We’re learning about the revealed word and how prophecy is being fulfilled.”

You: “That sounds interesting. But before we talk about what you’re learning, can I ask you something personal? How has this changed YOUR life? Not what you’ve learned intellectually, but how are YOU different?”

Them: “Well, I understand the Bible now in a way I never did before.”

You (pressing gently): “Okay, but what does that mean for you personally? Has it changed how you treat people? How you see yourself? Your relationship with God? Can you share a specific moment when you felt God’s presence or experienced His love through this?”

[Watch what happens. They’ll likely struggle or default back to curriculum language.]

You (key moment): “I’m asking because in the Bible, when people encountered Jesus, they had stories. The blind man said, ‘I was blind but now I see!’ (John 9:25). The woman with the issue of blood was healed and told her whole story (Mark 5:33). Paul couldn’t stop talking about his Damascus road experience.

But when I ask you about YOUR experience, you tell me about classes and curriculum. That concerns me. Because if this is really the truth that transforms lives, it seems like you should have a personal story to tell. The fact that you’re redirecting me to a program instead of sharing your testimony makes me wonder if there’s been genuine transformation or primarily information transfer.”

What this may accomplish:

• Highlights the potential absence of personal testimony
• Shows the difference between genuine conversion and programmatic indoctrination
• Uses biblical examples they claim to follow
• Creates space for them to recognize they may not have a personal story
• Does this gently and non-threateningly

Biblical foundation:

Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Notice: “You will be my WITNESSES”—not “you will be my curriculum distributors.”

Acts 4:20 – Peter and John, when commanded to stop speaking about Jesus, responded: “We cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”

They couldn’t help it. It overflowed from them. That’s what genuine encounter with truth often does.

2 Corinthians 5:17 – “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

If someone is truly a new creation, there should be some evidence. A before and after. A story of transformation.

Strategy 2: The Gentle Clarification Loop

How it works:

Keep asking for clarification in a non-threatening way, making any vagueness increasingly apparent.

Example dialogue:

You: “Can you explain what it means that Lee Man-hee overcame or that the promised pastor fulfilled Revelation 12:11?”

Them: “He overcame by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of his testimony, not loving his life unto death.”

You (gently): “I see. Can you help me understand what ‘overcame’ looked like practically? Like, what did he do?”

Them: “He testified to the truth and exposed the betrayal at the Tabernacle Temple.”

You (still gentle): “Okay, that helps. So he spoke to them? Was there a meeting or a document he wrote? Where exactly was this? When did it happen?”

Them: “It happened at the Tabernacle Temple in Gwacheon in the 1980s. He witnessed what happened and testified to it.”

You (curious, not confrontational): “I’m trying to picture this. When you say ‘testified,’ do you mean he gave a speech? Wrote a letter? Had a conversation? And who did he testify to? The people involved? The public? The church? I want to understand the actual event.”

Them (likely getting vague again): “It’s more spiritual than that. He testified through his life and his understanding.”

You (key moment): “I appreciate you trying to explain. But you just told me it happened at a specific place in a specific decade. So it’s not purely spiritual—it’s historical. Real people, real place, real time. Yet when I ask what actually happened, the answer becomes vague again.

Is there a way to describe it in concrete terms? Like, if I had been there, what would I have seen? Because you’re asking me to believe this is the fulfillment of biblical prophecy—which is a significant claim. When Jesus fulfilled prophecy, we know exactly what happened: He was crucified under Pontius Pilate, buried in Joseph of Arimathea’s tomb, rose on the third day. Specific people, specific actions, specific timeline.

Can you give me that same level of detail? And if you can’t, does that concern you? Because it concerns me.”

What this may accomplish:

• Makes any vagueness visible without being accusatory
• Demonstrates genuine desire to understand (not attack)
• Puts gentle pressure on the lack of specifics
• May plant seeds of doubt about whether there’s substance behind the claims
• Acknowledges what information they DO have (place, time period) while exposing what might be missing (specific actions, verifiable details)

The potential psychological impact:

• They may begin to notice they can’t answer basic questions
• They might start to wonder why they don’t have this information
• They may experience cognitive dissonance without feeling attacked
• You’ve modeled that it’s okay to ask for clarity

Strategy 3: The Comparison Method

How it works:

Compare their answer to clear biblical examples, highlighting the contrast in a thoughtful way.

Example dialogue:

You: “When you explain that the promised pastor fulfilled Revelation 10 by eating the scroll, can I compare that to how Jesus fulfilled prophecy?”

Them: “Sure.”

You: “When Jesus fulfilled the prophecy about rising in three days, we have specific details: He was crucified on Friday, buried in Joseph of Arimathea’s tomb, and the tomb was found empty on Sunday morning. Multiple people saw Him—Mary Magdalene, the disciples, over 500 witnesses (1 Corinthians 15:6). We know where it happened (Golgotha, outside Jerusalem), when it happened (during Passover, under Pontius Pilate), and who witnessed it.

Even Jesus’ enemies confirmed the basic facts. The Pharisees didn’t deny the empty tomb—they made up a story about the disciples stealing the body (Matthew 28:11-15). They confirmed the tomb was empty; they just disputed the explanation.

Can you give me similar specific details about the promised pastor eating the scroll? When did it happen? Where? Who witnessed it? And importantly, do the people involved agree with this interpretation, or do they dispute it?”

Them: “Well, it’s spiritual. The scroll represents the revealed word…”

You (gently): “I understand it’s spiritual. But even spiritual fulfillments happened at specific times and places. When did the promised pastor receive this revealed word? Where was he? Who witnessed it? How can we verify it happened?

And here’s what concerns me: You mentioned earlier that there are legal issues around naming certain people. That suggests there are people who dispute SCJ’s version of events. When Jesus fulfilled prophecy, even His enemies confirmed the basic facts. Why would people be in legal disputes with SCJ if the account is accurate? Doesn’t that suggest there are competing versions of what happened?

In the Bible, when prophets called out specific people—like Nathan confronting David (2 Samuel 12), or John the Baptist calling out Herod (Mark 6:18)—those people didn’t successfully sue for defamation because the accusations were true. If SCJ’s claims were true, why would there be legal disputes?”

Them: “The names are in our materials—we refer to them as Mr. [Last name]. The legal issues are complicated.”

You (key moment): “But that’s exactly my point. The fact that there ARE legal disputes means this is contested. It’s not like the resurrection, where the basic facts were undisputed—even by enemies. This is a situation where real people and their families are saying ‘That’s not what happened’ strongly enough to take legal action.

That’s not prophetic fulfillment—that’s a disputed narrative. And before I accept it as the fulfillment of Revelation, I need to hear both sides. I need to understand why these people dispute it. Because if they have a different account, and I only hear SCJ’s version, how do I know which one is true?

More importantly, do YOU know both sides? Have you researched what these people and their families say about what happened? Or have you only heard SCJ’s version?”

What this may accomplish:

• Uses biblical authority (which they claim to follow)
• Highlights potential differences in verification standards
• Shows that vagueness is not the biblical pattern
• Raises questions about reliability
• Suggests that legal disputes may indicate contested claims, not established facts
• Encourages them to research both sides

The potential psychological impact:

• They may be confronted with inconsistencies between biblical and SCJ standards
• They might not be able to dismiss your concern as “worldly”—you’re using Scripture
• They may begin to question why SCJ’s claims can’t be verified like biblical ones
• They might realize they’ve only heard one side of a disputed story
• Cognitive dissonance may increase

Biblical foundation:

Proverbs 18:17 – “In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines.”

This is biblical wisdom: Don’t accept one side’s story without hearing the other side, especially when there’s active dispute.

Deuteronomy 19:15 – “One witness is not enough to convict anyone accused of any crime or offense they may have committed. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.”

Biblical verification requires multiple witnesses. If the people involved dispute the account, that may be a failed verification test.

Strategy 4: The “I’m Confused” Approach

How it works:

Express genuine confusion about the vagueness and lack of personal conviction, inviting them to either provide clarity or acknowledge the problematic nature of their presentation.

Example Dialogue:

You: “I’m confused about something, and I’m hoping you can help me.”

Them: “Of course.”

You: “You’ve been inviting me to this Bible study for weeks now. You tell me it’s the most important truth, that it’s about salvation, that I need to understand Revelation. But here’s what confuses me: You struggle to tell me YOUR story. You can’t share how this has personally transformed you beyond saying you ‘understand the Bible better now.’

When I ask specific questions, you redirect me to ‘come to class’ or ‘study the curriculum.’ But if this is really the truth that saves, if this is really the good news—wouldn’t you naturally want to tell me about it? Wouldn’t you have a story to share?

Think about it: If you discovered the cure for cancer, would you say ‘Come to my medical class and learn about it’? Or would you say ‘I HAD CANCER AND NOW I’M HEALED! Let me tell you what happened!’

That’s what confuses me. Where’s YOUR story? Where’s the transformation? Where’s the passion that comes from genuine encounter with truth?”

Them: “Well, I am passionate about it. That’s why I want you to study.”

You (pressing gently): “But that’s not quite the same thing. Passion for a program is different from passion born from personal transformation. Let me show you what I mean:

In John 9, Jesus healed a blind man. When the Pharisees questioned him, he didn’t say, ‘You should come to Jesus’ classes to understand.’ He said, ‘One thing I know. I was blind but now I see!’ (John 9:25). That’s personal testimony.

In Acts 3, Peter and John healed a lame man. The man didn’t hand out flyers for a healing seminar. He went ‘walking and jumping, and praising God’ (Acts 3:8). That’s personal transformation.

In Luke 8, Jesus healed a demon-possessed man. When the man wanted to follow Jesus, Jesus said, ‘Return home and tell how much God has done for you’ (Luke 8:39). That’s personal story.

But when I ask you to tell me YOUR story, you can’t. You redirect me to a program. That’s not biblical evangelism. That seems more like recruitment. And it makes me wonder: Do you have a story? Has there been genuine transformation? Or have you primarily been attending classes and memorizing information?”

Them (likely defensive or uncertain): “I… I do have a story. I’ve learned so much…”

You (key moment): “Learning is good. But learning ABOUT God isn’t the same as ENCOUNTERING God. Paul didn’t just learn about Jesus—Jesus appeared to him and transformed him (Acts 9). The Samaritan woman didn’t just learn about the Messiah—she met Him and her life changed (John 4). The disciples didn’t just study under Jesus—they walked with Him, saw His miracles, witnessed His resurrection.

Can you tell me about YOUR encounter? Not what you’ve learned in class, but what you’ve experienced personally? When did God become real to you? When did you feel His presence? When did your life actually change?

And if you struggle to answer those questions, doesn’t that concern you? Because if you’re asking me to believe this is the path to salvation, but you can’t testify to your own salvation experience, I’m not sure what to make of that.”

What This May Accomplish:

Practically:

• Highlights the potential absence of personal testimony
• Shows the difference between information and transformation
• Illustrates that recruitment is not the same as witness-bearing
• Uses multiple biblical examples they can’t easily dismiss
• Creates space for them to recognize they may not have a personal story
• Non-threatening approach—you’re genuinely confused, not attacking
• Invites them to examine whether they’ve truly encountered God or primarily joined an organization

Psychologically:

• They may feel safe because you’re asking for help, not attacking
• They might realize they can’t share a personal transformation story
• They may recognize for the first time that they’re recruiting, not witnessing
• They might see the contrast between biblical evangelism and their approach
• They may begin questioning whether they’ve had genuine encounter
• They likely can’t dismiss your concern because you’re using Scripture

Biblical foundation:

Mark 16:15 – “He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.'”

Notice: “preach the GOSPEL”—the good news of what Jesus has done. Not “recruit people to a study program.”

Romans 10:9-10 – “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”

Salvation involves personal belief and personal confession. It’s not about completing a curriculum.

Acts 26:16 – Jesus tells Paul: “I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen and will see of me.”

A witness testifies to what they’ve SEEN and EXPERIENCED. Not what they’ve been taught in a class.

Strategy 5: The “Defend Your Faith” Challenge

How it works:

Gently point out that biblical Christianity encourages believers to be able to defend their faith personally, not defer to an organization or teacher.

Example dialogue:

You: “Can I ask you something? If someone challenged your beliefs right now—if they asked you hard questions about why you believe what you believe—could you answer them? Or would you need to bring them to your teacher?”

Them: “Well, my teacher is more knowledgeable…”

You (interrupting gently): “I’m sure they are. But here’s what concerns me. 1 Peter 3:15 says, ‘Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.’ Notice it says YOU. Not your teacher. Not your organization. YOU.

That suggests every believer should be able to defend their faith. Every believer should be able to explain what they believe and why. Every believer should be able to give a reasoned defense of their faith.

But from what I’m seeing, you seem to struggle with that. When I ask you questions, you:

• Redirect me to your teacher
• Tell me to come to class
• Use phrases you’ve memorized but can’t explain
• Become vague when pressed for specifics
• Can’t share personal testimony

That doesn’t seem like biblical Christianity. That looks more like dependency on an organization. And it makes me wonder: Do you actually believe this yourself, or are you repeating what you’ve been told?”

Them (likely defensive): “I do believe it. I just… I’m still learning.”

You (key moment): “I hear you. But here’s the thing: The disciples were ‘still learning’ too. They made mistakes. They misunderstood Jesus constantly. But when Jesus sent them out, He expected them to be able to share what they’d experienced (Luke 9:1-6, Luke 10:1-12).

He didn’t say, ‘Bring everyone back to Me so I can explain it.’ He said, ‘Go and tell what you’ve seen and heard.’

In Acts 4:13, the religious leaders were amazed by Peter and John because they were ‘unschooled, ordinary men’ who spoke with boldness. They hadn’t completed a theological curriculum. They hadn’t graduated from an advanced program. But they had ENCOUNTERED Jesus, and they couldn’t stop talking about it.

But you’ve been studying for [X months/years], and you still seem to struggle to:

• Explain your beliefs in your own words
• Answer basic questions without deferring to authority
• Share a personal testimony of transformation
• Defend your faith when challenged

Doesn’t that concern you? Because it concerns me. It suggests that either:

• The teaching might be so complex that even dedicated students can’t understand it
• The teaching might be deliberately kept vague to maintain dependency
• There may not have been genuine transformation—just information transfer

What do you think might be happening?”

What this may accomplish:

• Highlights the potential dependency structure
• Shows that biblical faith is personally defensible
• Suggests they may not be able to function as independent believers
• Uses biblical examples of “ordinary” people who could testify boldly
• Invites them to consider why they can’t explain what they claim to believe
• May create cognitive dissonance: “Why can’t I defend my own faith?”

Biblical foundation:

Jude 1:3 – “Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people.”

Believers are called to CONTEND for the faith—to defend it, to argue for it, to stand up for it. Not to defer to someone else to do it for them.

2 Timothy 2:15 – “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”

Notice: “a worker who does not need to be ashamed.” You should be able to handle the word of truth yourself, not constantly need someone else to do it for you.

Colossians 4:6 – “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”

YOU should know how to answer. Not “bring everyone to someone who knows how to answer.”

Strategy 6: The Documentation Request

How it works:

Ask them to provide written or documented answers, which may make vagueness more difficult to maintain and could reveal the absence of substance.

Example dialogue:

You: “I really want to understand this properly, and I want to be fair to what you’re sharing. So here’s what I’d like to do: Would you be willing to write down answers to a few questions for me? That way I can study them carefully, and you can take time to give thoughtful, complete answers. Does that sound fair?”

Them: “Sure, what questions?”

You: “Great. Here they are:

1. Personal Testimony Question:

‘Can you write out your personal testimony? Specifically: What was your life like before SCJ? What happened that made you believe this is the truth? How has your life changed since joining? Please share specific examples of transformation, not just what you’ve learned intellectually.’

2. Belief Defense Question:

‘In your own words (not using phrases from class), can you explain why you believe Lee Man-hee is the promised pastor of Revelation? What evidence convinced you personally? If someone challenged this claim, how would you defend it?’

3. Salvation Clarity Question:

‘Can you explain how someone is saved according to SCJ teaching? What are the specific requirements? How do you know if you’re saved? Can you lose your salvation? Please be as specific as possible.’

4. Verification Question:

‘You’ve mentioned events at the Tabernacle Temple that fulfill Revelation. Can you provide: the specific names of the people involved, the specific dates of key events, and sources outside of SCJ materials where I can verify these events happened as described?’

5. Comparison Question:

‘How is SCJ’s teaching about salvation different from traditional Christian teaching? And why should I believe SCJ’s interpretation over 2,000 years of Christian understanding?’

Can you write out complete answers to these five questions and get back to me? Take your time—I want to make sure I get accurate information. And please, write in your own words, not just copy from curriculum materials. I want to understand what YOU believe and why.”

What this may accomplish:

• Invites them to articulate beliefs in writing, where vagueness may be harder to hide
• Creates a record of what they claim
• Gives them time to research (and possibly discover there may not be clear answers)
• Shows you’re serious about verification
• May reveal whether they can function independently or need to consult leadership
• The personal testimony question might expose whether there’s genuine transformation
• The “in your own words” instruction may prevent copy-pasting curriculum

The potential psychological impact:

• Writing may force clarity that verbal vagueness can hide
• They might realize they don’t actually have answers
• They may consult leadership and discover leadership doesn’t have clear answers either
• They can’t rely on verbal deflection techniques
• The personal testimony question may force them to confront whether they have a story
• They might start asking their own questions internally

What often happens:

• They may never provide the written answers
• They might provide vague written answers that you can then respond to in writing, making the vagueness more apparent
• They may realize through the process that they don’t have the information
• They might copy-paste from curriculum, revealing they can’t explain it themselves
• They may consult their instructor, who tells them not to answer, potentially revealing information control

Your follow-up if they don’t provide answers:

“I notice you haven’t gotten back to me with those written answers. Can I ask why? Is it because:

• You don’t have the answers?
• You were told not to answer?
• You realized you can’t explain it in your own words?
• You’re not sure yourself?

Because here’s what concerns me: If this is the most important truth, the path to salvation, the revealed word of God—it seems like you should be eager to answer these questions. You should be excited to share your testimony. You should be able to defend your beliefs.

The fact that you can’t—or won’t—tells me something important. And I think it might tell you something important too.”

Strategy 7: The “Jesus vs. Organization” Contrast

How it works:

Thoughtfully contrast where they place their trust—in Jesus or in the organization—and gently show how SCJ’s gospel may be fundamentally different from the biblical gospel.

Example dialogue:

You: “I want to ask you something really important, and I need you to think carefully before you answer. Where is your faith placed? Is it in Jesus, or is it in Shincheonji?”

Them: “It’s in Jesus, of course.”

You: “Okay, let me test that. If you left Shincheonji tomorrow—if you walked away from the organization, stopped attending classes, never went back—would you still be saved?”

Them (hesitating): “Well… I need to complete the curriculum and understand the revealed word…”

You (gently but firmly): “That’s not what I asked. I asked if you’d still be saved if you left SCJ. Can you be saved without SCJ?”

Them: “SCJ is where God is gathering the 144,000…”

You (interrupting gently): “Again, that’s not an answer. Let me ask it differently: Can someone be saved by faith in Jesus Christ alone, without ever hearing of Shincheonji?”

Them (struggling): “They need to understand the revealed word to be truly saved…”

You (key moment): “Do you hear what you just said? You just said faith in Jesus isn’t enough. You just said people need SCJ to be saved. That means your faith isn’t in Jesus—it’s in an organization.

Let me show you what the Bible says about salvation:

Acts 16:30-31 – The Philippian jailer asked Paul and Silas, ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?’ They replied, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.’

Notice what they DIDN’T say:

• They didn’t say, ‘Complete our 6-month curriculum’
• They didn’t say, ‘Understand the revealed word’
• They didn’t say, ‘Join our organization’
• They didn’t say, ‘Study under the promised pastor’

They said: ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus.’ Period. That’s it. That’s the gospel.

Romans 10:9 – ‘If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.’

Again, notice what’s NOT required:

• No mention of a special organization
• No mention of advanced Bible knowledge
• No mention of a promised pastor
• No mention of understanding Revelation

Just: Believe Jesus is Lord. Believe He rose from the dead. Confess this. You’re saved.

Ephesians 2:8-9 – ‘For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.’

Salvation is a GIFT. You receive it by FAITH. Not by completing a curriculum. Not by joining an organization. Not by understanding secret knowledge.

But SCJ seems to have added requirements. SCJ appears to say:

• You need to understand the ‘revealed word’
• You need to study under the ‘promised pastor’
• You need to be part of the 144,000
• You need to complete their program

That doesn’t sound like the gospel. That sounds like a different gospel. And Paul warned about this:

Galatians 1:6-9 – ‘I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse! As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God’s curse!’

Paul says if ANYONE—even an angel—preaches a different gospel, they’re under a curse. That’s how serious this is.

So I’m asking you again: Can you be saved by faith in Jesus Christ alone, without Shincheonji? If your answer is anything other than ‘yes,’ then you might not be trusting in Jesus—you might be trusting in an organization. And that may not be Christianity. That might be something else.”

What this may accomplish:

• Highlights that SCJ’s gospel may be organization-dependent, not Christ-dependent
• Uses clear biblical passages about salvation
• Suggests they may have accepted a “different gospel”
• Invites them to articulate where their faith actually rests
• Shows the potential addition of requirements to simple faith
• Invokes Paul’s strong warning about false gospels

The potential psychological impact:

• They may realize they can’t say “yes” to being saved without SCJ
• They might see the potential contradiction between biblical salvation and SCJ’s requirements
• They may recognize they’ve been taught to trust an organization, not Jesus
• The Galatians passage is particularly powerful—it’s a serious warning about false gospels
• They might feel concern: “Have I been following a false gospel?”
• Cognitive dissonance may intensify

Biblical foundation:

John 14:6 – Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Not: “No one comes to the Father except through me AND the promised pastor.” Just through Jesus.

1 Timothy 2:5 – “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.”

ONE mediator. Not Jesus plus Lee Man-hee. Not Jesus plus SCJ. Just Jesus.

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Whoever BELIEVES in Him. Not “whoever completes the SCJ curriculum.” Not “whoever understands the revealed word.” Whoever believes.

Strategy 8: The “Good News Test”

How it works:

Ask them to share the “good news” (gospel) and gently show how SCJ’s version may not actually be good news at all—it might be a burden.

Example dialogue:

You: “The word ‘gospel’ means ‘good news.’ So tell me: What’s the good news of Shincheonji? If I asked you to share the gospel with me right now, what would you say?”

Them: “The good news is that prophecy is being fulfilled and God is gathering the 144,000…”

You (interrupting gently): “Okay, but how is that good news FOR ME? What does that mean for my life? For my eternity?”

Them: “If you study and understand the revealed word, you can be part of the 144,000…”

You (key moment): “Do you hear what you just said? Your ‘good news’ is: ‘IF you study, IF you understand, IF you complete the program, THEN MAYBE you can be part of the 144,000.’

That doesn’t sound like good news. That sounds like conditional news. That’s ‘do this and maybe you’ll be saved’ news.

Let me show you what the biblical good news sounds like:

Romans 5:8 – ‘But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.’

That’s good news! While I was STILL A SINNER—before I did anything, before I understood anything, before I joined anything—Christ died for me. That’s grace.

John 3:16 – ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.’

That’s good news! WHOEVER believes. Not ‘whoever completes the curriculum.’ Not ‘whoever understands the mysteries.’ Whoever believes.

1 John 5:13 – ‘I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may KNOW that you have eternal life.’

That’s good news! You can KNOW you have eternal life. Not ‘maybe if you’re faithful enough.’ Not ‘only the promised pastor knows.’ YOU can know.

But SCJ’s gospel seems to create anxiety, not assurance:

• You don’t know if you’re sealed
• You don’t know if you truly understand
• You don’t know if you’re faithful enough
• You don’t know if you’ll complete the requirements
• You’re constantly striving, constantly uncertain

That doesn’t sound like good news. That sounds like a burden. And Jesus said:

Matthew 11:28-30 – ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.’

Jesus offers REST. His burden is LIGHT. But SCJ seems to offer endless study, constant striving, perpetual uncertainty. That’s a HEAVY burden.

So I’m asking you: Is what you’ve found in SCJ actually good news? Does it bring you rest? Does it give you assurance? Or does it create anxiety and dependency?

Because if it’s not good news, if it doesn’t bring rest, if it doesn’t give assurance—it might not be the gospel of Jesus Christ.”

What this may accomplish:

• Highlights that SCJ’s message may not actually be “good news”
• Contrasts the potential burden of SCJ with the rest of Christ
• Shows that biblical gospel brings assurance, not anxiety
• Reveals the potentially conditional nature of SCJ’s salvation
• Uses Jesus’ own words about His “easy yoke”
• Invites them to examine whether they have peace or anxiety

The potential psychological impact:

• They may realize they DON’T have assurance
• They might recognize they’re living with anxiety about their spiritual status
• They may see the contrast between burden and rest
• They might acknowledge they’re weary from constant striving
• The phrase “good news” reframes everything—is this actually good?
• They may begin to long for the rest Jesus offers

Follow-up questions:

“Let me ask you personally:

• Do you have peace about your salvation?
• Do you KNOW you’re saved, or are you hoping you might be?
• Do you feel rest in your faith, or are you constantly anxious about whether you’re doing enough?
• When you go to bed at night, do you have assurance, or do you have doubt?
• If you died tonight, are you confident you’d go to heaven? Or would you say ‘I hope so’ or ‘I think so’?

Because the biblical gospel gives you confidence to say: ‘I KNOW I’m saved. Not because of what I’ve done, but because of what Jesus has done. Not because I’ve completed a program, but because I’ve trusted in Christ.’

Can you say that? And if you can’t, doesn’t that suggest something might be wrong?”

Strategy 9: The “Cult Checklist” Approach

How it works:

Gently walk through characteristics of high-control groups and ask them to honestly assess whether SCJ fits the pattern.

Example dialogue:

You: “I want to share something with you, and I need you to hear me out without getting defensive. Can you do that?”

Them: “Okay…”

You: “I’ve been researching high-control groups—what some people call cults—and there are specific characteristics that experts have identified. I want to go through them with you, not to attack you, but because I care about you and I’m concerned. Will you honestly tell me whether SCJ fits these patterns?”

Them (hesitant): “Okay…”

You: “These come from Dr. Steven Hassan, a cult expert who wrote ‘Combatting Cult Mind Control.’ He developed something called the BITE Model—Behavior Control, Information Control, Thought Control, and Emotional Control. Let me ask you about a few specific things:

Information Control:

1. Do they discourage you from reading critical information about SCJ?

Them: “Well, they say a lot of it is persecution or lies…”

You: “So it seems they do. They may be controlling what information you’re allowed to consider. Have you actually read what former members say? Have you researched both sides? Or have you only heard SCJ’s version?”

2. Do they have different levels of information, where only certain people know the full truth?

Them: “There’s a curriculum structure…”

You: “So yes. Information appears to be gatekept. Why would God’s truth need to be hidden behind levels? Jesus said in John 18:20, ‘I have spoken openly to the world… I said nothing in secret.’ Why might SCJ operate differently than Jesus?”

3. Do they discourage you from talking to former members?

Them: “They say former members are bitter and will try to confuse us…”

You: “So yes. They seem to prevent you from hearing the other side. Doesn’t that concern you? If SCJ’s claims are true, they should withstand scrutiny from all sides. Why might they be afraid of you hearing from people who left?”

Behavior Control:

4. Do they control your time—filling it with meetings, classes, and activities?

Them: “Well, there are classes multiple times a week, and events, and…”

You: “So yes. When was the last time you had a free evening? When was the last time you could just rest without feeling guilty about not attending something?”

5. Do they tell you who you can spend time with—encouraging relationships with members and discouraging relationships with non-members?

Them: “They say it’s important to be around people who understand…”

You: “So yes. They may be isolating you. Have you noticed you’re spending less time with family and old friends? That’s often considered a major red flag.”

Thought Control:

6. Do they have loaded language—special terms that only members understand?

Them: “We use biblical terms…”

You: “Like ‘revealed word,’ ‘promised pastor,’ ‘one who overcomes,’ ‘Tabernacle Temple’—terms that have specific SCJ meanings. So yes. This can create an us-vs-them mentality and may make it harder to think critically.”

7. Do they teach that questioning or doubting is wrong—that it’s from Satan or shows lack of faith?

Them: “They say we need to have faith and not be influenced by doubts…”

You: “So yes. They may be teaching you to suppress critical thinking. But the Bible encourages testing and examination. Acts 17:11 praises the Bereans for examining the Scriptures daily to see if what Paul said was true. Why might SCJ discourage what the Bible encourages?”

Emotional Control:

8. Do they create fear about leaving—saying you’ll lose salvation, be destroyed, or face consequences?

Them: “They say this is where God is working, and if you leave…”

You: “So yes. They may be using fear to keep you there. But 1 John 4:18 says, ‘There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear.’ If God’s love is perfect, why would His truth require fear to keep you?”

9. Do they create guilt—making you feel like you’re never doing enough, never faithful enough, never understanding enough?

Them: “I do feel like I need to study more, be more faithful…”

You: “So yes. They may be using guilt as control. But Romans 8:1 says, ‘Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.’ Jesus offers freedom from guilt, not constant condemnation.”

You (key moment): “I just walked through nine characteristics of high-control groups, and SCJ seems to fit every single one. Every. Single. One.

Now, I know what you might be thinking: ‘But we’re not a cult, we’re just studying the Bible.’ But that’s what members of many high-control groups say. They don’t think they’re in a cult—they think they’ve found the truth.

So I’m asking you: Can you step back and honestly look at this? Can you see the patterns? And more importantly, are you willing to research this yourself—not just from SCJ sources, but from former members, from cult experts, from independent sources?

Because if SCJ is the truth, it will withstand examination. But if it’s a high-control group, they’ll tell you not to look. Which one is it?”

What this may accomplish:

• Provides objective criteria for evaluation
• Uses expert analysis (Dr. Hassan’s BITE Model)
• Shows pattern recognition across multiple categories
• May make them aware of control mechanisms they haven’t noticed
• Invites them to research independently
• Uses Scripture to contrast SCJ’s methods with biblical principles

The potential psychological impact:

• They might see patterns they hadn’t recognized before
• They may realize they’re exhibiting classic behaviors associated with high-control groups
• They might not be able to dismiss it as “just your opinion”—it’s expert analysis
• They may feel cognitive dissonance: “Am I in a cult?”
• They might feel fear, but also curiosity to research
• The checklist format may make it harder to deny

Biblical foundation:

1 Thessalonians 5:21 – “Test everything; hold fast what is good.”

You’re asking them to TEST, which is biblical. SCJ may discourage testing, which doesn’t align with this verse.

Proverbs 14:15 – “The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.”

Being prudent means examining carefully, not accepting blindly.

1 John 4:1 – “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”

The Bible COMMANDS testing. If SCJ discourages it, that alone might be a red flag.

The Reality: They May Have Been Trained to Counter Your Questions

Here’s something important to understand: SCJ likely knows people will ask these questions. They may have prepared their members with responses. When you challenge vagueness, when you ask for personal testimony, when you point out contradictions—they may have scripted answers.

But here’s what’s worth noting: The scripted answers often remain vague. And when you gently press past the first layer of defense, the script may begin to fall apart.

This section prepares you for their potential responses and suggests how you might respond in turn.

Response Pattern 1: “You Need to Study the Whole Curriculum to Understand”

What they might say:

“These are deep spiritual truths. You can’t understand them from just a conversation. You need to study the entire curriculum systematically. That’s why we have the classes—everything builds on everything else.”

What this might actually mean:

• “I struggle to explain it, so I’m deferring to the program”
• “The complexity may be intentional—it could create dependency”
• “If you study long enough, you might stop asking questions”
• “I’m hoping you’ll become convinced before you realize there may not be clear answers”

How you might respond:

You: “I hear what you’re saying, but let me gently push back on that. If this is truly God’s truth, it seems like it should be explainable at any level. Jesus explained profound truths in simple ways—parables that children could understand.

In fact, let’s look at how Jesus taught:

Mark 4:33-34 – ‘With many similar parables Jesus spoke the word to them, as much as they could understand. He did not say anything to them without using a parable. But when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything.’

Notice: Jesus spoke ‘as much as they could understand.’ He met people where they were. He didn’t say, ‘You need to complete my 6-month curriculum before I’ll explain anything.’

And when Paul preached the gospel, he made it simple:

1 Corinthians 15:3-4 – ‘For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.’

That’s it. That’s the gospel. Paul could explain it in two sentences. He didn’t say, ‘You need to study for months to understand this.’

So here’s my question: If the gospel is simple enough for Paul to explain in two sentences, why might SCJ require months of study before you can even understand what you believe?

And more importantly: Can YOU explain in simple terms what you believe and why? Not ‘come to class and you’ll learn.’ Can YOU, right now, tell me the core message in a way I can understand?

Because if you can’t, that might suggest one of two things:

• The teaching may be unnecessarily complicated (which doesn’t seem to be how Jesus taught)
• You might not fully understand it yourself yet (which would mean you’re following something you can’t explain)

What do you think?”

What this may accomplish:

• Suggests that complexity might be a control mechanism, not a feature of truth
• Shows that Jesus and Paul taught simply and clearly
• Invites them to explain it themselves, right now
• Reveals they may be hiding behind the curriculum because they struggle to explain it
• Encourages them to consider: “Why can’t I explain what I claim to believe?”

Follow-up if they persist:

“Let me ask you something else: After all the months/years you’ve studied, can you now explain it simply? Or are you still saying ‘it’s complicated’?

Because if you’ve been studying this long and still can’t explain it simply, that might not be depth—that might be confusion. And God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33).

Truth tends to clarify. Deception tends to confuse. Which one are you experiencing?”

Response Pattern 2: “You’re Focusing on the Wrong Things”

What they might say:

“You’re getting caught up in details that don’t matter. What’s important is the spiritual reality, not specific names and dates. You’re missing the bigger picture.”

What this might actually mean:

• “I don’t have answers to your specific questions”
• “I’m trying to redirect you away from verifiable claims”
• “I’m making you feel like you’re the problem for asking”
• “I’m using ‘spiritual’ as an excuse for vagueness”

How you might respond:

You: “I appreciate that you want me to see the bigger picture, but here’s my concern: The ‘bigger picture’ you’re describing seems to be built on specific claims. And if those specific claims aren’t true, the whole picture might collapse.

Let me give you an example from the Bible:

1 Corinthians 15:14-17 – ‘And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead… And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.’

Paul is saying: The SPECIFIC HISTORICAL EVENT of the resurrection matters. It’s not just ‘spiritual.’ If it didn’t actually happen in history, the whole faith collapses.

That’s why Paul provides specific evidence:

1 Corinthians 15:5-8 – ‘He appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, and last of all he appeared to me also.’

Paul gives NAMES. He gives NUMBERS. He says ‘most of them are still living’—meaning you can go ask them! He’s inviting verification.

The resurrection isn’t just a ‘spiritual reality’—it’s a historical event that can be investigated.

Now, SCJ claims that specific events at the Tabernacle Temple fulfill Revelation. That’s a historical claim. If it happened, there should be:

• Specific names
• Specific dates
• Verifiable evidence
• Multiple witnesses who agree

But when I ask for these details, you tell me I’m ‘focusing on the wrong things.’ That doesn’t seem to be how biblical faith works. Biblical faith appears to be built on historical events that can be verified.

So I’m not missing the bigger picture—I’m asking whether the picture is built on truth or on claims that can’t be verified.

If the specific claims aren’t true, the ‘bigger picture’ might not be true either. So the details seem to matter quite a bit.”

What this may accomplish:

• Shows that biblical faith is historically grounded, not vaguely spiritual
• Uses Paul’s example of providing specific, verifiable evidence
• Suggests that “you’re focusing on the wrong things” might be a deflection tactic
• Reframes verification as biblical, not worldly
• Puts the question back to them to provide evidence

Follow-up if they persist:

“Let me ask you this: If someone claimed to be the fulfillment of prophecy but couldn’t provide any verifiable evidence, would you believe them?

If someone said, ‘I’m the promised one, but don’t worry about the details, just focus on the spiritual reality,’ would that satisfy you?

Or would you want evidence? Would you want to verify the claims?

I’m doing exactly what you would probably do if someone made extraordinary claims to you. I’m asking for evidence. And the fact that you can’t provide it—or suggest I shouldn’t ask for it—seems like a significant concern.”

Response Pattern 3: “This Is Persecution / Satan Is Trying to Confuse You”

What they might say:

“The fact that you’re doubting shows that Satan is attacking you. Jesus said His followers would be persecuted. People always attack the truth. This is spiritual warfare.”

What this might actually mean:

• “I can’t answer your questions, so I’m making you the problem”
• “I’m using fear to try to stop you from thinking critically”
• “I’m reframing legitimate questions as spiritual attack”
• “I’m creating an us-vs-them mentality where questioning = enemy”

How you might respond:

You: “I understand that the Bible talks about persecution and spiritual warfare. But let me show you something important: The Bible also warns about false teachers who might use those same arguments to avoid accountability.

2 Peter 2:1-3 – ‘But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. In their greed these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories.’

Notice: False teachers exist. They may exploit people. They might fabricate stories. And they’re AMONG believers—they can look like they’re teaching truth.

So the question isn’t just ‘Is there persecution?’ The question is: ‘How do I know if I’m following truth or being deceived by a false teacher?’

And the Bible gives us a clear answer: TEST EVERYTHING.

1 Thessalonians 5:21 – ‘Test everything; hold fast what is good.’

1 John 4:1 – ‘Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.’

Acts 17:11 – ‘Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.’

The Bereans didn’t just accept Paul’s teaching—they EXAMINED it. And Paul praised them for it! He didn’t say, ‘You’re being attacked by Satan for questioning me.’ He commended them for testing his teaching.

So when I ask questions, when I want to verify claims, when I examine what SCJ teaches—I’m not being attacked by Satan. I’m being a Berean. I’m doing exactly what the Bible commands.

Now, here’s the real question: If SCJ’s teaching is true, it will withstand examination. If it’s false, it might crumble under scrutiny.

So which is it? Is SCJ concerned about examination because the teaching might be false? Or will it welcome my questions because the teaching is true?

Because right now, you’re telling me that my questions are ‘spiritual attack.’ That doesn’t seem to be how truth responds. That seems more like how deception responds.”

What this may accomplish:

• Reframes testing as biblical obedience, not spiritual attack
• Shows that false teachers also claim persecution
• Uses the Berean example—praised for examining Paul’s teaching
• Suggests the manipulation tactic of labeling questions as “Satan’s attack”
• Puts the question back to them: Why might you be concerned about examination?

Follow-up if they persist:

“Let me be very direct: Many high-control groups throughout history have told their members that outside criticism is persecution. Many teachers who were later shown to be false have said, ‘Don’t listen to the doubters—they’re being used by Satan.’

That’s not necessarily a sign you’re following truth. That might be a sign you’re in a closed system that can’t handle scrutiny.

Jesus welcomed questions. Thomas doubted, and Jesus showed him evidence (John 20:27). The disciples constantly misunderstood, and Jesus patiently explained. Paul debated in the synagogues and reasoned with people (Acts 17:2).

Truth tends to engage with questions. Truth provides evidence. Truth welcomes examination.

But you’re telling me that my questions are spiritual attack. That suggests to me that SCJ might not be able to handle scrutiny. And if it can’t handle scrutiny, it might not be truth.”

Response Pattern 4: “You Just Don’t Understand Yet”

What they might say:

“I understand why you’re confused. I was confused too at first. But as you study more, it will all make sense. You just need to be patient and keep learning.”

What this might actually mean:

• “I’m patronizing you to make you feel inferior”
• “I’m suggesting that understanding = indoctrination”
• “I’m implying that if you just stay long enough, you’ll stop asking questions”
• “I don’t actually have answers, but I’m suggesting it’s your fault for not understanding”

How you might respond:

You: “I appreciate that you’re trying to be patient with me, but I need to gently push back on something. You’re implying that if I just study more, I’ll understand. But I’m not asking about complex theology. I’m asking basic questions that it seems you should be able to answer:

• What’s your personal testimony?
• How has this changed your life?
• Can you explain your beliefs in your own words?
• Can you provide evidence for the historical claims?

These aren’t advanced questions. These are foundational questions. And if you can’t answer them after [months/years] of study, that might not be because I don’t understand—it might be because there aren’t clear answers.

Let me show you something from Jesus’ teaching:

Matthew 11:25 – ‘At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.”‘

Jesus said His truth is revealed to CHILDREN. Not to people who complete advanced programs. Not to people who study for years. To children—meaning it’s simple enough for anyone to grasp.

1 Corinthians 1:27 – ‘But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.’

God’s truth doesn’t seem to require intellectual superiority or years of study. It appears to be accessible to everyone.

So when you tell me ‘you just don’t understand yet,’ you might be contradicting how Jesus said truth works. Jesus said even children can understand. But you’re saying I need months or years of study.

That doesn’t seem to be how biblical truth operates. That seems more like how secret knowledge operates. That’s similar to how Gnosticism operated—the heresy that said you need special, hidden knowledge to be saved.

So I’m asking you: Is SCJ teaching biblical truth that’s simple enough for a child? Or is it teaching something more like secret knowledge that requires years of study to grasp?

Because if it’s the latter, it might not be Christianity.”

What this may accomplish:

• Highlights the potentially Gnostic nature of SCJ’s teaching (secret knowledge)
• Shows that biblical truth is simple and accessible
• Challenges the idea that understanding = more study
• Suggests they may be using complexity as a control mechanism
• Reframes their condescension as evidence of a potential problem, not a virtue

Follow-up if they persist:

“Let me ask you something honestly: After all your study, do you understand it now? Can you now explain it simply? Or are you still being told ‘you need to study more’?

Because if the answer is always ‘study more,’ if there’s never a point where you have clarity and can explain it simply, then you might not be on a path to understanding—you might be on a treadmill of perpetual confusion.

And that doesn’t seem to be what Jesus offers. Jesus offers clarity, rest, and assurance. He offers truth that sets you free (John 8:32), not truth that keeps you perpetually dependent on an organization.”

Response Pattern 5: “We Have Thousands of Members Worldwide—Would That Many People Be Deceived?”

What they might say:

“Shincheonji has grown to over 100,000 members (or 200,000, depending on their current claims). We’re in countries all over the world. Would that many people be deceived? Doesn’t the growth prove it’s true?”

What this might actually mean:

• “I’m using popularity as proof of truth”
• “I’m hoping you’ll be swayed by numbers rather than evidence”
• “I’m avoiding your actual questions by pointing to growth”
• “I haven’t thought about whether popularity = truth”

How you might respond:

You: “I understand why growth might seem like evidence, but let me show you why it might not be. Popularity has never been a reliable measure of truth. In fact, the Bible consistently shows something different:

Matthew 7:13-14 – ‘Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.’

Jesus said MANY will take the broad road to destruction. FEW will find the narrow road to life. So according to Jesus, the popular path might often be the wrong one.

Matthew 24:11 – ‘And many false prophets will appear and deceive many people.’

Jesus warned that false prophets will deceive MANY. Not a few. MANY. So large numbers of deceived people is exactly what Jesus predicted could happen.

Now let’s look at history:

• Islam has 1.8 billion followers. Does that make it true?
• Hinduism has 1.2 billion followers. Does that make it true?
• Buddhism has 500 million followers. Does that make it true?
• Mormonism has 17 million members worldwide. Does that make it true?
• Jehovah’s Witnesses have 8 million members. Does that make it true?

If popularity proved truth, then Islam would be more true than Christianity because it has more followers. But you don’t believe that. So you already know that numbers don’t equal truth.

In fact, let me show you a sobering example:

When Jesus was arrested, the crowd chose to free Barabbas (a murderer) and crucify Jesus (Matthew 27:15-23). The MAJORITY chose wrong. The CROWD was deceived.

When the Israelites made the golden calf, the MAJORITY participated (Exodus 32). The CROWD was deceived.

When Elijah confronted the prophets of Baal, there were 450 prophets of Baal and ONE Elijah (1 Kings 18). The MAJORITY were false prophets.

So biblically, historically, and logically, popularity is not proof of truth. In fact, it’s sometimes evidence of widespread deception.

Now, here’s the real question: Can you defend SCJ’s teaching based on EVIDENCE, not based on how many people believe it?

Because if your best argument is ‘lots of people believe it,’ you might not have a strong argument. You might have what’s called a logical fallacy—’argumentum ad populum’—appeal to popularity.

Truth isn’t determined by vote. It’s determined by evidence.”

What this may accomplish:

• Dismantles the popularity argument using Scripture
• Shows that Jesus predicted many would be deceived
• Provides examples of other large groups that they don’t consider true
• Uses biblical examples of crowds being wrong
• Identifies the logical fallacy
• Redirects to evidence-based discussion

Follow-up if they persist:

“Let me ask you this: If SCJ’s numbers dropped tomorrow—if membership declined—would that make the teaching false?

If you say no, then you’re admitting that numbers don’t determine truth. And if numbers don’t determine truth, then you can’t use growth as evidence that SCJ is true.

You can’t have it both ways. Either numbers matter or they don’t. And if they do matter, then Islam might be more true than Christianity because it has more followers.

So which is it?”

Response Pattern 6: “Only the Promised Pastor Knows / We Can’t Go Beyond What’s Written”

What they might say:

“Only the promised pastor has received the full revelation. We can’t go beyond what’s written in Scripture. We have to wait for things to be revealed in God’s timing. It’s not for us to know everything.”

What this might actually mean:

• “I’m creating a special authority figure who’s above questioning”
• “I’m using ‘humility’ to mask the fact that I don’t have answers”
• “I’m making you dependent on one person’s interpretation”
• “I’m using Scripture language to justify not answering your questions”

How you might respond:

You: “I need to address this directly because it’s one of the most concerning things you’ve said. You’re creating a system where one human being has exclusive access to truth, and everyone else must depend on him. That doesn’t seem to be biblical Christianity—that looks more like cultic authority.

Let me show you what the Bible actually says:

1 John 2:27 – ‘As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit—just as it has taught you, remain in him.’

Every believer has the Holy Spirit. Every believer can understand Scripture. You don’t seem to need one special person to mediate truth for you.

John 16:13 – ‘But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.’

The Holy Spirit guides believers into truth. Not one promised pastor. The Holy Spirit.

Hebrews 8:11 – ‘No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, “Know the Lord,” because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest.’

Under the New Covenant, ALL believers know the Lord directly. Not through a mediator. Not through a promised pastor.

Now, you said ‘we can’t go beyond what’s written.’ Let me show you something interesting:

1 Corinthians 4:6 – ‘Do not go beyond what is written.’

This verse is about not adding to Scripture. But that seems to be EXACTLY what SCJ does! SCJ appears to add:

• A promised pastor who’s necessary for salvation (not in Scripture)
• The 144,000 as a literal group being gathered now (not the traditional biblical interpretation)
• Specific fulfillments at the Tabernacle Temple (not in Scripture)
• Requirements to complete a curriculum to be saved (not in Scripture)

So SCJ seems to be going WAY beyond what’s written, while telling you not to go beyond what’s written. That appears to be manipulation.

And here’s what concerns me most: You’re being taught that you can’t understand Scripture yourself. You’re being taught that you need Lee Man-hee to interpret it for you. That’s exactly how many high-control groups operate.

Let me show you what Jesus said about this:

Matthew 23:8-10 – ‘But you are not to be called “Rabbi,” for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. And do not call anyone on earth “father,” for you have one Father, and he is in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Messiah.’

ONE Teacher: Jesus. Not Lee Man-hee. Not a promised pastor. Jesus.

When you elevate one human being as the exclusive source of truth, you might be violating this command. You might be making him a mediator between you and God. And the Bible is clear:

1 Timothy 2:5 – ‘For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.’

ONE mediator. Not Jesus AND Lee Man-hee. Just Jesus.

So when you tell me ‘only the promised pastor knows,’ you might be:

• Contradicting Scripture that says all believers can know truth
• Creating a cultic authority structure
• Making yourself dependent on a human being instead of the Holy Spirit
• Violating the biblical teaching that Jesus is the only mediator

This is one of the clearest signs that SCJ might not be biblical Christianity. Biblical Christianity has no human mediator. SCJ appears to have one. That alone might be a reason for serious concern.”

What this may accomplish:

• Highlights the potentially cultic authority structure
• Shows that all believers have direct access to truth through the Holy Spirit
• Reveals the possible irony of “not going beyond Scripture” while adding to Scripture
• Uses Jesus’ own words about the elevation of human teachers
• Points out the potential violation of “one mediator” doctrine
• Suggests this is a fundamental departure from Christianity

Follow-up if they persist:

“Let me ask you something personal: Do you have a relationship with God, or do you have a relationship with Lee Man-hee’s interpretation of God?

Can you hear from God yourself? Can you understand Scripture yourself? Or do you always need to check with the promised pastor’s teaching?

Because if you can’t hear from God directly, if you can’t understand Scripture without Lee Man-hee’s interpretation, then you might not be following Jesus—you might be following a man.

And Jesus warned about this:

John 10:27 – ‘My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.’

Jesus’ sheep hear HIS voice. Not a promised pastor’s voice. HIS voice.

Can you hear Jesus’ voice? Or have you been taught that you can only hear it through Lee Man-hee?”

Response Pattern 7: “You’re Being Judgmental / You Should Be More Open-Minded”

What they might say:

“You’re being very judgmental. Jesus said not to judge. You should be more open-minded and willing to learn new things. Why are you so closed off?”

What this might actually mean:

• “I can’t answer your questions, so I’m making you the problem”
• “I’m misusing ‘don’t judge’ to try to shut down discernment”
• “I’m reframing critical thinking as closed-mindedness”
• “I’m trying to make you feel guilty for having boundaries”

How you might respond:

You: “I need to address this because it’s a common misunderstanding. You might be confusing judgment with discernment, and possibly misusing Jesus’ words about judging.

Let’s look at what Jesus actually said:

Matthew 7:1-5 – ‘Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?’

Jesus is talking about HYPOCRITICAL judgment—condemning others for sins you’re guilty of yourself. He’s not saying ‘never evaluate anything.’

In fact, in the SAME CHAPTER, Jesus says:

Matthew 7:15-16 – ‘Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them.’

Jesus commands us to WATCH OUT for false prophets. How can we watch out if we don’t evaluate? How can we recognize them ‘by their fruit’ if we don’t examine and discern?

So Jesus isn’t saying ‘don’t discern.’ He’s saying ‘don’t be a hypocrite.’

And the Bible repeatedly commands discernment:

1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 – ‘Test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.’

TEST EVERYTHING. That’s not being judgmental. That’s being obedient.

1 John 4:1 – ‘Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.’

TEST THE SPIRITS. Don’t just accept everything. EVALUATE.

Proverbs 14:15 – ‘The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.’

Being prudent means examining carefully. Being simple means accepting everything without question.

So when I ask questions, when I examine SCJ’s claims, when I point out potential contradictions—I’m not being judgmental. I’m being discerning. I’m trying to be obedient to Scripture.

Now, you said I should be ‘more open-minded.’ Let me address that:

Being open-minded doesn’t mean accepting everything. Being open-minded means being willing to examine evidence from all sides and following where the truth leads.

I’ve tried to be open-minded. I’ve listened to what you’ve shared. I’ve asked questions. I’ve examined the claims. And based on the evidence—or what seems to be a lack of evidence—I’ve concluded that SCJ’s claims might not hold up.

That’s not closed-mindedness. That’s discernment.

What you might actually be asking me to do is be so ‘open-minded’ that I accept claims without evidence, ignore red flags, and suppress my critical thinking.

That’s not open-mindedness. That might be gullibility.

G.K. Chesterton said, ‘The object of opening the mind, as of opening the mouth, is to shut it again on something solid.’ I’ve examined SCJ’s claims, and they don’t seem solid to me. So I’m closing my mind to them—not because I’m closed-minded, but because I’ve discerned they might be false.

So please don’t confuse discernment with judgment, and don’t confuse critical thinking with closed-mindedness. I’m trying to do exactly what the Bible commands: testing everything and holding fast to what is good.”

What this may accomplish:

• Clarifies the difference between judgment and discernment
• Shows that Jesus commanded evaluation of teachers
• Provides multiple Scripture passages commanding testing
• Suggests the possible manipulation of “don’t judge” to shut down questions
• Reframes critical thinking as biblical obedience
• Distinguishes open-mindedness from gullibility

Follow-up if they persist:

“Let me turn this around: You’re telling me I’m being judgmental for questioning SCJ. But aren’t you being judgmental toward all of traditional Christianity? Aren’t you saying that 2,000 years of Christians have been wrong, and only SCJ has it right?

Aren’t you judging every other church as false? Aren’t you judging every other interpretation of Revelation as incorrect?

So you’re allowed to judge everyone else, but I’m not allowed to evaluate SCJ’s claims? That seems like a double standard.

And more importantly: If SCJ’s claims are true, they should welcome examination. Truth doesn’t fear questions. It seems like only deception might.”

Response Pattern 8: “God Works in Mysterious Ways / It’s a Mystery”

What they might say:

“We can’t understand everything about God’s ways. Isaiah 55:8 says ‘My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.’ Some things are mysteries that we have to accept by faith.”

What this might actually mean:

• “I don’t have answers, so I’m hiding behind ‘mystery'”
• “I’m using God’s transcendence to excuse logical contradictions”
• “I’m confusing genuine mystery with deliberate vagueness”
• “I’m hoping you’ll stop asking questions if I invoke God’s incomprehensibility”

How you might respond:

You: “I understand that there are genuine mysteries in faith—things that are beyond our full comprehension. But there seems to be a significant difference between biblical mystery and deliberate vagueness. Let me show you what I mean:

Biblical mysteries that are clearly revealed:

Colossians 1:26-27 – ‘The mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.’

Notice: The mystery WAS hidden, but NOW it’s DISCLOSED. It’s MADE KNOWN. God reveals His mysteries—He doesn’t keep them permanently vague.

Ephesians 3:3-5 – ‘That is, the mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly. In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Holy Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets.’

Again: The mystery is REVEALED. It’s MADE KNOWN. Paul says ‘you will be able to UNDERSTAND.’

So biblical mystery isn’t permanent vagueness. It’s truth that was once hidden but is now revealed and understandable.

Now, here’s my concern with how you’re using ‘mystery’:

You seem to be using it to excuse:

• Lack of evidence for historical claims
• Inability to explain beliefs in clear terms
• Logical contradictions
• Absence of verifiable details

That doesn’t seem to be biblical mystery. That might be evasion.

Let me show you what God’s ‘mysterious ways’ passage actually means:

Isaiah 55:8-9 – ‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.’

This is in the context of God’s mercy and forgiveness (read verses 6-7). It’s saying God’s mercy is greater than we can imagine—He forgives in ways that surpass our understanding.

It’s NOT saying ‘God’s truth is so mysterious you can’t verify it’ or ‘God’s ways are so mysterious you can’t ask questions.’

In fact, God repeatedly invites examination:

Isaiah 1:18 – ‘Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord.’

God invites REASONING. Not blind acceptance.

Acts 17:2 – ‘As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures.’

Paul REASONED. He didn’t say ‘it’s a mystery, just accept it.’

So when you tell me ‘it’s a mystery’ in response to my questions about:

• Specific historical events that should be verifiable
• Basic explanations of what you believe
• Evidence for extraordinary claims

You might not be pointing to biblical mystery. You might be hiding behind vagueness.

Biblical mystery is revealed truth that’s profound. What you’re describing seems to be unrevealed claims that can’t be verified. Those appear to be completely different things.”

What this may accomplish:

• Distinguishes biblical mystery (revealed truth) from evasive vagueness
• Shows that biblical mysteries are made known, not kept hidden
• Suggests the possible misuse of “God’s mysterious ways”
• Demonstrates that God invites reasoning and examination
• Reveals they might be using “mystery” to avoid accountability

Follow-up if they persist:

“Let me ask you directly: When you say ‘it’s a mystery,’ do you mean:

1. A) ‘This is profound truth that’s been revealed but is difficult to fully grasp’ (like the Trinity—revealed but beyond full comprehension)

OR

1. B) ‘I don’t have answers to your questions, so I’m calling it a mystery to avoid admitting that’

Because if it’s A, you should be able to explain what HAS been revealed, even if you can’t explain everything.

But if it’s B, then you might be using ‘mystery’ as a way to avoid difficult questions.

So which is it? Can you explain what’s been revealed? Or are you hiding behind ‘mystery’ because there might not be anything concrete to explain?”

Response Pattern 9: “You Need to Pray About It / Let the Holy Spirit Guide You”

What they might say:

“Instead of relying on your own understanding, you should pray about this. Let the Holy Spirit guide you to the truth. If you seek with an open heart, God will reveal it to you.”

What this might actually mean:

• “I can’t provide evidence, so I’m making it your spiritual responsibility”
• “I’m implying that if you don’t accept SCJ, it’s because you’re not spiritual enough”
• “I’m using ‘prayer’ to deflect from answering questions”
• “I’m suggesting that the Holy Spirit will lead you to SCJ—implying that rejecting SCJ means rejecting the Spirit”

How you might respond:

You: “I appreciate that you’re encouraging prayer and spiritual discernment. But I need to point something out: You might be using ‘pray about it’ to avoid answering legitimate questions. And that could be a manipulation tactic.

Let me show you what the Bible actually says about the relationship between prayer and discernment:

Proverbs 2:3-6 – ‘Indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.’

Notice: Prayer for wisdom is combined with SEARCHING, LOOKING, EXAMINING. It’s not prayer INSTEAD of investigation—it’s prayer ALONGSIDE investigation.

Acts 17:11 – ‘Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.’

The Bereans didn’t just pray about Paul’s teaching. They EXAMINED the Scriptures. They INVESTIGATED. And they were PRAISED for it.

So biblical discernment seems to involve:

• Prayer for wisdom
• Examination of Scripture
• Testing claims against God’s Word
• Investigating evidence

I’ve been trying to do all of these. I’ve prayed. I’ve examined Scripture. I’ve tested SCJ’s claims. And I’ve investigated the evidence—or what seems to be a lack thereof.

And here’s what I’ve found: SCJ’s claims don’t seem to align with Scripture, and there appears to be no verifiable evidence for the historical claims.

So when you tell me to ‘pray about it,’ what you might really be saying is: ‘If you pray, you’ll come to the same conclusion I did.’ But that doesn’t seem to be how the Holy Spirit works.

The Holy Spirit leads people to TRUTH, not to a specific organization. And if SCJ’s claims aren’t true, the Holy Spirit wouldn’t lead me to accept them—no matter how much I pray.

In fact, let me show you what Jesus said the Holy Spirit does:

John 16:13 – ‘But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.’

The Spirit guides into TRUTH. Not into SCJ. Not into an organization. Into TRUTH.

So if SCJ isn’t true, the Holy Spirit might guide me AWAY from it, not toward it.

Now, here’s what concerns me about your response: You seem to be implying that if I don’t accept SCJ after praying, it’s because I’m not spiritual enough or not open to the Holy Spirit. That might be spiritual manipulation.

It’s like saying: ‘If you agree with me, it’s the Holy Spirit. If you disagree, it’s your flesh/pride/Satan.’ That’s not discernment—that might be a system where you can’t lose.

But the Bible doesn’t seem to work that way. The Holy Spirit leads different believers to test and reject false teaching. That’s part of His role:

1 John 4:1-3 – ‘Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God.’

The Holy Spirit helps believers RECOGNIZE and REJECT false teaching. So if the Holy Spirit is leading me to question SCJ’s claims, that might be Him doing His job—protecting me from potential deception.

So yes, I’ve prayed. And I believe the Holy Spirit might be leading me to see that SCJ’s claims don’t align with Scripture. And I’m trying to follow that leading.”

What this may accomplish:

• Shows that prayer doesn’t replace investigation
• Uses the Berean example of examination alongside spiritual seeking
• Suggests the possible manipulation of “if you pray, you’ll agree with me”
• Clarifies that the Holy Spirit leads to truth, not to organizations
• Reveals the potentially rigged system where agreement = Spirit, disagreement = flesh
• Points out that the Holy Spirit helps believers reject false teaching

Follow-up if they persist:

“Let me ask you something: Have YOU prayed about whether SCJ might be wrong? Have you asked the Holy Spirit to show you if you’ve been deceived?

Or have you only prayed, ‘God, help me understand SCJ better’ and ‘God, help me be more faithful to this teaching’?

Because if you’ve never genuinely asked, ‘God, is this true or false? Show me if I’m being deceived,’ then you might not actually be open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance—you might only be open to confirmation of what you already believe.

That’s not spiritual discernment. That might be confirmation bias.

So before you tell me to pray about it, ask yourself: Have you truly prayed with an open heart to be shown if you’re wrong? Or are you afraid of what the answer might be?”

Response Pattern 10: “We’re Not Perfect, But We’re Trying Our Best”

What they might say:

“We don’t claim to be perfect. We’re all learning and growing. Yes, there might be some things we don’t understand yet, but we’re sincerely seeking God. Isn’t that what matters?”

What this might actually mean:

• “I’m lowering the bar to avoid accountability”
• “I’m using humility language to excuse major problems”
• “I’m conflating personal imperfection with false teaching”
• “I’m hoping you’ll accept sincerity as a substitute for truth”

How you might respond:

You: “I appreciate the humility in acknowledging imperfection. But I need to make an important distinction: There seems to be a difference between personal imperfection and false teaching. And you might be conflating the two.

Personal imperfection means:

• I make mistakes
• I don’t always live up to what I believe
• I’m growing in my understanding
• I sometimes fail to love as I should

Every Christian deals with personal imperfection. Romans 3:23 says ‘all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.’ That’s universal.

But false teaching is different. False teaching means:

• The core message might be wrong
• The gospel may have been distorted
• Claims are made that might not be true
• People may be being led away from Christ

And the Bible treats false teaching VERY seriously:

Galatians 1:8-9 – ‘But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse! As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God’s curse!’

Paul doesn’t say, ‘Well, they’re trying their best, so it’s okay.’ He says they’re CURSED. That’s how serious false teaching is.

2 Peter 2:1-3 – ‘But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. In their greed these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories.’

False teachers might ‘exploit you with fabricated stories.’ That’s not about personal imperfection—that’s about potential deception.

So when I point out that:

• SCJ’s gospel seems to be different from the biblical gospel (adding requirements for salvation)
• SCJ appears to elevate a human mediator (Lee Man-hee) alongside Christ
• SCJ makes historical claims that seem unable to be verified
• SCJ might use manipulation and control tactics

I’m not criticizing personal imperfection. I’m identifying what might be false teaching. And those don’t seem to be the same thing.

Now, you said ‘we’re sincerely seeking God.’ I believe you are sincere. But sincerity doesn’t equal truth:

Proverbs 14:12 – ‘There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.’

You can sincerely believe something and be sincerely wrong. Sincerity doesn’t make false teaching true.

Paul was sincere when he persecuted Christians. He said in Acts 26:9, ‘I too was convinced that I ought to do all that was possible to oppose the name of Jesus of Nazareth.’ He was CONVINCED. He was SINCERE. And he was WRONG.

So sincerity isn’t enough. Truth matters. And if SCJ’s teaching isn’t true, your sincerity doesn’t change that.

Here’s what I need you to understand: I’m not attacking you personally. I’m not saying you’re a bad person. I’m saying the teaching you’ve accepted might be false. And because I care about you, I can’t let ‘we’re trying our best’ excuse you from examining whether what you believe is actually true.

Because if it’s not true, ‘trying your best’ means you might be sincerely walking in the wrong direction. And I don’t want that for you.”

What this may accomplish:

• Distinguishes personal imperfection from false teaching
• Shows that the Bible treats false teaching with extreme seriousness
• Clarifies that sincerity doesn’t equal truth
• Uses Paul’s example of sincere but wrong belief
• Reframes the conversation: This isn’t about personal attack, it’s about truth
• Maintains compassion while refusing to accept the excuse

Follow-up if they persist:

“Let me ask you this: If someone was sincerely teaching that Jesus didn’t rise from the dead, would you say ‘Well, they’re trying their best, so it’s okay’?

No. You’d probably say, ‘That’s false teaching, and it matters.’

If someone was sincerely teaching that you need to worship Mary to be saved, would you say ‘They’re imperfect, but sincere’?

No. You’d likely say, ‘That’s false teaching, and it contradicts Scripture.’

So why, when I point out that SCJ’s teaching might contradict Scripture—that it seems to add requirements to salvation, elevate a human mediator, make unverifiable claims—why do you respond with ‘we’re not perfect, but we’re trying’?

This isn’t about perfection. This is about truth. And you need to decide: Is truth important enough to examine whether SCJ’s teaching is actually true? Or are you going to hide behind ‘we’re trying our best’ to avoid that examination?”

The Hard Truth: You Can’t Save Everyone

Before we talk about boundaries, you need to accept something difficult: You cannot force someone to see the truth. You cannot argue someone out of a position they didn’t argue themselves into. And sometimes, the most loving thing you can do is walk away.

This doesn’t mean you don’t care. It doesn’t mean you’re giving up on them. It means you’re recognizing that:

• They have free will
• They may not be ready to hear truth
• You cannot sacrifice your own spiritual and emotional health indefinitely
• Sometimes people need to experience consequences before they’re willing to change

Jesus modeled this. When people rejected His message, He moved on:

Matthew 10:14 – “If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet.”

He didn’t chase. He didn’t force. He gave truth, and if it was rejected, He moved on.

Luke 9:5 – “If people do not welcome you, leave their town and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.”

There comes a point where continued engagement may no longer be helpful—it might be enabling.

Signs It Might Be Time to Walk Away

Here are some indicators that it might be time to establish firm boundaries or end the conversation:

1. They’re Not Engaging Honestly

Signs:

• They repeat the same scripted answers no matter what you say
• They ignore your questions and redirect to their talking points
• They refuse to provide evidence or documentation you’ve requested
• They won’t acknowledge any valid points you make
• They’re clearly not listening—just waiting for their turn to talk

What this might mean:

They’re not in conversation mode—they might be in recruitment mode. They may not be seeking truth—they might be defending a position. And you can’t have a productive conversation with someone who’s not actually engaging.

What you might say:

“I’ve noticed that no matter what I ask, you give the same responses. You’re not actually engaging with my questions—you seem to be reciting talking points. I’ve asked for specific information, and you haven’t provided it. I’ve pointed out what seem to be contradictions, and you haven’t addressed them. This doesn’t feel like a conversation—it feels like a sales pitch. And I’m not interested in being sold to. If you ever want to have an honest conversation where you actually engage with my questions, I’m open to that. But until then, I need to step back from this.”

2. They’re Using Manipulation Tactics

Signs:

• They try to make you feel guilty for questioning (“You’re breaking my heart,” “I’m so worried about your salvation”)
• They use fear (“If you reject this, you’ll miss out on salvation,” “God will judge you”)
• They play the victim (“You’re persecuting me,” “Why are you attacking my faith?”)
• They gaslight (“You’re misunderstanding,” “That’s not what I said,” when you know it is)
• They try to isolate you (“Your family/friends don’t understand,” “Only we truly care about you”)

What this might mean:

They’ve moved from sharing beliefs to emotional manipulation. This might be abusive behavior, and you don’t have to tolerate it.

What you might say:

“I need to be direct with you. You seem to be using manipulation tactics—guilt, fear, playing the victim. That’s not how truth operates. Truth doesn’t need manipulation. Truth stands on its own. The fact that you’re resorting to these tactics suggests to me you might not have truth—you might have a system that requires manipulation to maintain. I will not be manipulated. This conversation is over.”

3. Your Own Mental/Spiritual Health Is Suffering

Signs:

• You feel anxious or drained after every conversation
• You’re losing sleep worrying about them or doubting yourself
• You’re starting to question your own beliefs (not in a healthy way, but in a confused, destabilized way)
• You feel obligated to keep engaging even though it’s harming you
• You’re neglecting other relationships or responsibilities because of this

What this might mean:

You may be being pulled into an unhealthy dynamic. You cannot pour from an empty cup. You cannot help them if you’re drowning yourself.

What you might say:

“I care about you, but I need to be honest: These conversations are taking a toll on my mental and emotional health. I’ve tried to engage honestly, I’ve asked questions, I’ve shared my concerns. But this has become unhealthy for me. I need to step back and establish boundaries. I’m still here if you ever want to talk about leaving SCJ or if you have genuine questions. But I can’t continue these conversations about defending SCJ. I hope you understand.”

4. They’re Becoming More Entrenched, Not Less

Signs:

• The more you present evidence, the more defensive they become
• They’re doubling down on SCJ involvement (attending more, recruiting more)
• They’re cutting off other relationships to focus on SCJ
• They’re using your questions as “proof” that they’re being persecuted
• They’re reporting your conversations to their SCJ leaders

What this might mean:

Your engagement might be backfiring. Instead of creating doubt, it could be creating entrenchment. This is sometimes called the “backfire effect”—when evidence against a belief actually strengthens the belief because it triggers defensive reactions.

What you might say:

“I’ve noticed that the more we talk about this, the more defensive you become and the more involved with SCJ you seem to get. That tells me that my questions aren’t helping—they might be pushing you deeper in. That’s not what I want. So I’m going to stop. I’m going to step back and let you process this on your own. I’ll be here if you ever want to talk, but I’m not going to keep pushing. I love you, and I’m trusting that God will work in your life in His timing.”

How to Establish Boundaries

Once you’ve decided it might be time to step back, here’s how to establish clear, healthy boundaries:

Be Clear and Direct

Don’t hint. Don’t be passive-aggressive. State your boundary clearly.

Example:

“I’ve decided that I can’t continue having conversations about Shincheonji. I’ve shared my concerns, I’ve asked my questions, and I don’t feel like we’re making progress. So moving forward, I’m not going to discuss SCJ with you. I’m happy to talk about other things, but SCJ is off the table.”

Explain Why (Once)

You can briefly explain your reasoning, but don’t over-explain or justify repeatedly.

Example:

“I’m setting this boundary because these conversations have become unhealthy for both of us. I feel like I’m not being heard, and you feel like you’re being attacked. Neither of those is productive. So I’m stepping back.”

State the Consequences

Make clear what will happen if the boundary is violated.

Example:

“If you bring up SCJ or try to invite me to events, I’ll end the conversation. If you continue to push, I’ll need to limit our contact. I don’t want it to come to that, but I need you to respect this boundary.”

Follow Through

This is the hardest part. If they violate the boundary, you MUST follow through with the consequence. Otherwise, the boundary becomes meaningless.

Example:

Them: “I just want to invite you to one event…”

You: “I told you SCJ is off the table. I’m ending this conversation now. We can talk later about other things.”

[Then actually end the conversation. Leave, hang up, stop responding.]

Don’t Feel Guilty

You are not responsible for their choices. You are not abandoning them by setting boundaries. You are protecting your own health so that you CAN be there for them if they ever decide to leave.

Remember:

Matthew 10:16 – “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”

Being shrewd means recognizing when engagement might be harmful and protecting yourself. That’s wisdom, not cruelty.

What to Do After You Walk Away

1. Pray for Them

You may not be able to talk to them, but you can pray for them.

Pray specifically:

• That God would open their eyes to the truth
• That they would encounter someone or something that creates genuine doubt
• That they would be protected from harm while in SCJ
• That when they’re ready to leave, they’ll have support
• That your relationship can be restored when they leave

2. Stay Informed

Keep learning about SCJ so that if they do reach out, you’re prepared to help.

• Read testimonies from former members
• Understand the exit process
• Know what resources are available
• Be aware of SCJ’s current tactics and teachings

3. Be Ready to Re-Engage When They’re Ready

If they reach out with genuine questions or doubts, be ready to engage again—but carefully.

Signs they might be ready:

• They’re asking questions instead of defending
• They’re expressing doubts
• They’re acknowledging problems they’ve seen
• They’re asking about life outside SCJ
• They’re reaching out after a period of silence

How to respond:

“I’m so glad you reached out. I’m here to listen and support you. What’s been going on?”

[Then LISTEN more than you talk. Let them process. Don’t say “I told you so.” Just be present.]

4. Take Care of Yourself

• Process your own emotions (grief, anger, frustration)
• Talk to others who understand (support groups, counselors)
• Don’t isolate yourself
• Remember that you did what you could
• Trust God with the outcome

Resources for Further Study:

• “Combatting Cult Mind Control” by Dr. Steven Hassan – Comprehensive guide to understanding and addressing cult involvement
• “The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse” by David Johnson and Jeff VanVonderen – Helps identify spiritual manipulation
• r/Shincheonji subreddit – Former members share experiences and support
• FreedomOfMind.com – Dr. Hassan’s website with resources for families
• Local cult awareness organizations – Many cities have support groups for families

How to Respond When Answers Become Vague

At some point in your interactions with a Shincheonji member, you might notice a pattern: no matter how specific your questions, the answers may remain frustratingly vague. This doesn’t appear to be accidental. Vagueness seems to be a deliberate strategy, carefully taught and consistently deployed.

Understanding why they might be vague, how to recognize it, and most importantly, how to respond effectively could be crucial to helping them see the truth.

Why SCJ Members May Be Vague

1. They May Be Trained to Be Vague

Shincheonji’s recruitment methodology appears to explicitly instruct members to withhold information. They seem to be taught to:

• Avoid mentioning Shincheonji by name initially
• Not discuss Lee Man-hee until later in the curriculum
• Use generic Christian language that sounds orthodox
• Redirect specific questions to “come study and find out”
• Create curiosity rather than provide clarity

This doesn’t seem to be poor communication skills. It appears to be intentional strategy designed to get people invested before revealing the true nature of the organization.

2. They May Not Actually Have Clear Answers

Many SCJ members might not be able to provide specific answers because they don’t have them. Despite months or years of study, they often seem unable to:

• Explain their beliefs in their own words
• Provide verifiable evidence for historical claims
• Defend their theology when challenged
• Share a personal testimony of transformation

They may have memorized phrases and concepts, but they might not truly understand them. When pressed, they may default to vagueness because that’s all they have.

3. They May Be Protecting the Organization

SCJ members likely know that full disclosure leads to rejection. If they immediately told you:

• “We believe Lee Man-hee is the promised pastor of Revelation who will never die”
• “You need to complete our curriculum to be truly saved”
• “We’re gathering exactly 144,000 people for salvation”
• “Traditional Christianity has been wrong for 2,000 years”

Most people would probably walk away immediately. So they may hide these beliefs behind vague spiritual language until you’re emotionally invested.

4. They May Be Afraid of Being Wrong

Deep down, many SCJ members might have doubts they’re suppressing. When you ask specific questions, those questions could threaten to expose the foundation they’ve built their life on. Vagueness may protect them from confronting uncomfortable truths.

Admitting “I don’t know” or “I can’t explain that” might require acknowledging that perhaps they’ve been deceived. Vagueness may allow them to avoid that frightening possibility.

How to Recognize Vagueness

Vagueness often manifests in predictable patterns. Here’s what to listen for:

Pattern 1: Spiritual-Sounding Non-Answers

You ask: “What specifically happened at the Tabernacle Temple that fulfills Revelation?”

They answer: “God’s work was fulfilled according to prophecy. The promised pastor received the revealed word and the sealing began.”

Notice: This sounds spiritual, but it doesn’t actually answer the question. What work? Which prophecy? What sealing? When? Where? Who?

Pattern 2: Circular Reasoning

You ask: “How do you know Lee Man-hee is the promised pastor?”

They answer: “Because he’s received the revealed word of Revelation.”

You ask: “How do you know he’s received the revealed word?”

They answer: “Because he’s the promised pastor.”

This appears to be circular reasoning. The claim is used as evidence for itself.

Pattern 3: Deferring to Authority

You ask: “Can you explain this teaching?”

They answer: “You need to study the full curriculum to understand. The instructor can explain it better than I can.”

Translation: “I struggle to explain it, so I’m redirecting you to someone else who also might not be able to explain it clearly, but who has more practice sounding authoritative.”

Pattern 4: Creating False Complexity

You ask: “What’s the core message of what you believe?”

They answer: “It’s very deep and complex. There are layers of meaning. You need to understand the parables, the fulfillment, the spiritual reality behind the physical events. It all connects together in ways that take time to grasp.”

Translation: “I’m making this sound complicated so you won’t expect a simple answer. Complexity creates the illusion of depth.”

Pattern 5: Emotional Appeals Instead of Evidence

You ask: “Can you provide evidence for these claims?”

They answer: “I just know in my heart this is true. I’ve experienced God’s presence in the study. I’ve never felt so close to God before.”

Notice: They’ve shifted from evidence to emotion. Feelings are real, but they’re not proof of truth.

Pattern 6: The Endless Redirect

You ask: “Can you answer this specific question?”

They answer: “Come to the Bible study and you’ll learn.”

You ask: “But can you answer it now?”

They answer: “It’s better if you hear it in context during the study.”

You ask: “Why can’t you just tell me now?”

They answer: “Because it’s part of a larger teaching that builds on itself.”

This can go on indefinitely. The answer is always “come to class,” never an actual answer.

How to Respond to Vagueness

When you encounter vagueness, it might be helpful not to let it slide. Here are some strategies for responding effectively:

Strategy 1: The “Explain It Like I’m Five” Approach

How it works: Ask them to explain their belief in the simplest possible terms, as if explaining to a child.

Example Dialogue:

You: “I want to make sure I understand what you’re sharing. Can you explain it to me like I’m five years old? What’s the core message in the simplest terms possible?”

Them: “Well, it’s about understanding Revelation and the fulfilled prophecies…”

You (interrupting gently): “I appreciate that, but I’m asking for even simpler. Imagine you’re talking to a kindergartener. What’s the main point?”

Them: “God is doing a new work in these last days…”

You: “Okay, but what does that mean practically? If I asked a five-year-old ‘What does your friend believe?’, what would they say? Can you give me one or two sentences?”

What this may accomplish: It might expose that they can’t simplify because either they don’t understand it themselves, or the teaching is deliberately convoluted. Jesus explained profound truths in simple parables. Truth should be explainable simply. If they can’t do it, that could be revealing.

Biblical foundation: Jesus said in Matthew 11:25, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.” If truth is accessible to children, it should be explainable in simple terms.

Strategy 2: The “Personal Testimony” Request

How it works: Shift from abstract theology to personal experience. Ask them to share their own story, not the organization’s talking points.

Example Dialogue:

You: “I’ve heard a lot about the teaching, but I want to hear about you. What’s your personal testimony? How has this changed your life specifically?”

Them: “I’ve learned so much about the Bible. I understand Revelation now. I feel like I’m part of God’s work…”

You (pressing gently): “I hear that you’ve learned things, but I’m asking about transformation. Can you tell me about a specific moment when your life changed? What were you like before? What are you like now? What’s different?”

Them: “I’m more committed to studying the Bible. I’m part of a community…”

You: “Those are activities, but I’m asking about who you are as a person. Are you more loving? More patient? More joyful? Can you give me a concrete example of how you’ve changed?”

What this may accomplish: It might reveal the potential absence of genuine transformation. They can talk about what they’ve learned or what they do, but they may struggle to point to character transformation or a genuine encounter with God. This could be a significant concern.

Biblical foundation: Throughout Scripture, encounters with God produce transformation and testimony. The blind man in John 9:25 said, “One thing I know. I was blind but now I see!” The Samaritan woman in John 4 immediately went and told her whole town about Jesus. Paul’s encounter on the Damascus road completely transformed him. Real encounters with God seem to produce stories of change, not just intellectual knowledge.

Strategy 3: The “Specific Details” Challenge

How it works: Press for specific, verifiable details. Don’t accept vague claims about events or people.

Example Dialogue:

You: “You mentioned that events at the Tabernacle Temple fulfilled Revelation. I want to understand this better. Can you give me specific details?”

Them: “The betrayer betrayed, the destroyer destroyed, and the savior saved.”

You: “Okay, but who specifically? What are their names? When did this happen? Where exactly?”

Them: “These are spiritual realities that were fulfilled according to prophecy…”

You (interrupting gently): “I understand you believe they’re prophetically significant, but I’m asking for basic facts. If these are real events that happened in history, there should be names, dates, and places. Can you provide those?”

Them: “The instructor can explain the timeline better…”

You: “I’m not asking for a complex timeline. I’m asking for basic information. If I wanted to verify that these events happened, what would I look for? Who are the people involved? What are their full names? When did this occur—what year, what month?”

Them: “It’s not about the physical details, it’s about the spiritual meaning…”

You (key moment): “Here’s my concern. In the Bible, when events are described, we get specific details. We know Jesus was crucified under Pontius Pilate. We know Paul was converted on the road to Damascus. We know Peter was in Joppa when he had his vision. These are real events with real details that can be verified. But when I ask for similar details about SCJ’s claims, you can’t provide them. That doesn’t seem to be how biblical truth works. Biblical truth is historically grounded. So either these events didn’t happen as described, or you don’t actually know what happened. Either way, that seems concerning.”

What this may accomplish: It might expose that the “historical events” SCJ claims are either fabricated or so distorted that even members don’t know what actually happened. It also suggests that SCJ’s approach may be fundamentally different from how the Bible presents truth.

Biblical foundation: The Bible is filled with specific, verifiable details. Luke begins his Gospel by saying he “carefully investigated everything from the beginning” (Luke 1:3). Paul provides names, places, and witnesses for the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-8). Biblical faith appears to be rooted in history, not vague spiritual claims.

Strategy 4: The “I’m Confused” Approach

How it works: Express genuine confusion about the vagueness and lack of personal conviction, inviting them to either provide clarity or acknowledge the problematic nature of their presentation.

Example Dialogue:

You: “I’m confused about something, and I’m hoping you can help me.”

Them: “Of course.”

You: “You’ve been inviting me to this Bible study for weeks now. You tell me it’s the most important truth, that it’s about salvation, that I need to understand Revelation. But here’s what confuses me: You struggle to tell me your story. You can’t share how this has personally transformed you beyond saying you ‘understand the Bible better now.’ When I ask specific questions, you redirect me to ‘come to class’ or ‘study the curriculum.’ But if this is really the truth that saves, if this is really the good news, wouldn’t you naturally want to tell me about it? Wouldn’t you have a story to share?

Think about it: If you discovered the cure for cancer, would you say ‘Come to my medical class and learn about it’? Or would you say ‘I had cancer and now I’m healed! Let me tell you what happened!’

That’s what confuses me. Where’s your story? Where’s the transformation? Where’s the passion that comes from genuine encounter with truth?”

Them: “Well, I am passionate about it. That’s why I want you to study.”

You (pressing gently): “But that’s not quite the same thing. Passion for a program is different from passion born from personal transformation. Let me show you what I mean:

In John 9, Jesus healed a blind man. When the Pharisees questioned him, he didn’t say, ‘You should come to Jesus’ classes to understand.’ He said, ‘One thing I know. I was blind but now I see!’ That’s personal testimony.

In Acts 3, Peter and John healed a lame man. The man didn’t hand out flyers for a healing seminar. He went ‘walking and jumping, and praising God.’ That’s personal transformation.

In Luke 8, Jesus healed a demon-possessed man. When the man wanted to follow Jesus, Jesus said, ‘Return home and tell how much God has done for you.’ That’s personal story.

But when I ask you to tell me your story, you can’t. You redirect me to a program. That doesn’t seem like biblical evangelism. That looks more like recruitment. And it makes me wonder: Do you have a story? Has there been genuine transformation? Or have you primarily been attending classes and memorizing information?”

Them (likely defensive or uncertain): “I… I do have a story. I’ve learned so much…”

You (key moment): “Learning is good. But learning about God isn’t the same as encountering God. Paul didn’t just learn about Jesus—Jesus appeared to him and transformed him. The Samaritan woman didn’t just learn about the Messiah—she met Him and her life changed. The disciples didn’t just study under Jesus—they walked with Him, saw His miracles, witnessed His resurrection.

Can you tell me about your encounter? Not what you’ve learned in class, but what you’ve experienced personally? When did God become real to you? When did you feel His presence? When did your life actually change?

And if you struggle to answer those questions, doesn’t that concern you? Because if you’re asking me to believe this is the path to salvation, but you can’t testify to your own salvation experience, I’m not sure what to make of that.”

What this may accomplish:

• Highlights the potential absence of personal testimony
• Shows the difference between information and transformation
• Illustrates that recruitment is not the same as witness-bearing
• Uses multiple biblical examples they can’t easily dismiss
• Creates space for them to recognize they may not have a personal story
• Takes a non-threatening approach (you’re genuinely confused, not attacking)
• Invites them to examine whether they’ve truly encountered God or primarily joined an organization

Biblical foundation: Mark 16:15 says “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” Notice: preach the gospel—the good news of what Jesus has done. Not “recruit people to a study program.” Romans 10:9-10 explains that salvation involves personal belief and personal confession, not completing a curriculum. Acts 26:16 records Jesus telling Paul: “I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen and will see of me.” A witness testifies to what they’ve seen and experienced, not what they’ve been taught in a class.

Strategy 5: The “Defend Your Faith” Challenge

How it works: Gently point out that biblical Christianity encourages believers to be able to defend their faith personally, not defer to an organization or teacher.

Example dialogue:

You: “Can I ask you something? If someone challenged your beliefs right now—if they asked you hard questions about why you believe what you believe—could you answer them? Or would you need to bring them to your teacher?”

Them: “Well, my teacher is more knowledgeable…”

You (interrupting gently): “I’m sure they are. But here’s what concerns me. 1 Peter 3:15 says, ‘Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.’ Notice it says you. Not your teacher. Not your organization. You.

That suggests every believer should be able to defend their faith. Every believer should be able to explain what they believe and why. Every believer should be able to give a reasoned defense of their faith.

But from what I’m seeing, you seem to struggle with that. When I ask you questions, you:

• Redirect me to your teacher
• Tell me to come to class
• Use phrases you’ve memorized but can’t explain
• Become vague when pressed for specifics
• Can’t share personal testimony

That doesn’t seem like biblical Christianity. That looks more like dependency on an organization. And it makes me wonder: Do you actually believe this yourself, or are you repeating what you’ve been told?”

Them (likely defensive): “I do believe it. I just… I’m still learning.”

You (key moment): “I hear you. But here’s the thing: The disciples were ‘still learning’ too. They made mistakes. They misunderstood Jesus constantly. But when Jesus sent them out, He expected them to be able to share what they’d experienced (Luke 9:1-6, Luke 10:1-12).

He didn’t say, ‘Bring everyone back to Me so I can explain it.’ He said, ‘Go and tell what you’ve seen and heard.’

In Acts 4:13, the religious leaders were amazed by Peter and John because they were ‘unschooled, ordinary men’ who spoke with boldness. They hadn’t completed a theological curriculum. They hadn’t graduated from an advanced program. But they had encountered Jesus, and they couldn’t stop talking about it.

But you’ve been studying for [months/years], and you still seem to struggle to:

• Explain your beliefs in your own words
• Answer basic questions without deferring to authority
• Share a personal testimony of transformation
• Defend your faith when challenged

Doesn’t that concern you? Because it concerns me. It suggests that either:

• The teaching might be so convoluted that even dedicated students can’t understand it
• The teaching might be deliberately kept vague to maintain dependency
• There may not have been genuine transformation—just information transfer

What do you think might be happening?”

What this may accomplish:

• Highlights the potential dependency structure
• Shows that biblical faith is personally defensible
• Suggests they may not be able to function as independent believers
• Uses biblical examples of “ordinary” people who could testify boldly
• Invites them to consider why they can’t explain what they claim to believe
• May create cognitive dissonance

Biblical foundation: Jude 1:3 urges believers to “contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people.” Believers are called to contend for the faith—to defend it, to argue for it, to stand up for it. Not to defer to someone else to do it for them. 2 Timothy 2:15 instructs: “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” You should be able to handle the word of truth yourself, not constantly need someone else to do it for you. Colossians 4:6 says, “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” You should know how to answer, not “bring everyone to someone who knows how to answer.”

Strategy 6: The Documentation Request

How it works: Ask them to provide written or documented answers, which may make vagueness more difficult to maintain and could reveal the absence of substance.

Example dialogue:

You: “I really want to understand this properly, and I want to be fair to what you’re sharing. So here’s what I’d like to do: Would you be willing to write down answers to a few questions for me? That way I can study them carefully, and you can take time to give thoughtful, complete answers. Does that sound fair?”

Them: “Sure, what questions?”

You: “Great. Here they are:

1. Personal Testimony Question: Can you write out your personal testimony? Specifically: What was your life like before SCJ? What happened that made you believe this is the truth? How has your life changed since joining? Please share specific examples of transformation, not just what you’ve learned intellectually.
2. Belief Defense Question: In your own words (not using phrases from class), can you explain why you believe Lee Man-hee is the promised pastor of Revelation? What evidence convinced you personally? If someone challenged this claim, how would you defend it?
3. Salvation Clarity Question: Can you explain how someone is saved according to SCJ teaching? What are the specific requirements? How do you know if you’re saved? Can you lose your salvation? Please be as specific as possible.
4. Verification Question: You’ve mentioned events at the Tabernacle Temple that fulfill Revelation. Can you provide: the specific names of the people involved, the specific dates of key events, and sources outside of SCJ materials where I can verify these events happened as described?
5. Comparison Question: How is SCJ’s teaching about salvation different from traditional Christian teaching? And why should I believe SCJ’s interpretation over 2,000 years of Christian understanding?

Can you write out complete answers to these five questions and get back to me? Take your time—I want to make sure I get accurate information. And please, write in your own words, not just copy from curriculum materials. I want to understand what you believe and why.”

What this may accomplish:

• Invites them to articulate beliefs in writing, where vagueness may be harder to hide
• Creates a record of what they claim
• Gives them time to research (and possibly discover there may not be clear answers)
• Shows you’re serious about verification
• May reveal whether they can function independently or need to consult leadership
• Might expose whether there’s genuine transformation through the personal testimony question
• The “in your own words” instruction may prevent copy-pasting curriculum

What often happens:

• They may never provide the written answers
• They might provide vague written answers that you can then respond to in writing (making the vagueness more apparent)
• They may realize through the process that they don’t have the information
• They might copy-paste from curriculum (revealing they can’t explain it themselves)
• They may consult their instructor, who tells them not to answer (potentially revealing information control)

Your follow-up if they don’t provide answers:

“I notice you haven’t gotten back to me with those written answers. Can I ask why? Is it because:

• You don’t have the answers?
• You were told not to answer?
• You realized you can’t explain it in your own words?
• You’re not sure yourself?

Because here’s what concerns me: If this is the most important truth, the path to salvation, the revealed word of God—it seems like you should be eager to answer these questions. You should be excited to share your testimony. You should be able to defend your beliefs.

The fact that you can’t—or won’t—tells me something important. And I think it might tell you something important too.”

Strategy 7: The “Jesus vs. Organization” Contrast

How it works: Thoughtfully contrast where they place their trust—in Jesus or in the organization—and gently show how SCJ’s gospel may be fundamentally different from the biblical gospel.

Example dialogue:

You: “I want to ask you something really important, and I need you to think carefully before you answer. Where is your faith placed? Is it in Jesus, or is it in Shincheonji?”

Them: “It’s in Jesus, of course.”

You: “Okay, let me test that. If you left Shincheonji tomorrow—if you walked away from the organization, stopped attending classes, never went back—would you still be saved?”

Them (hesitating): “Well… I need to complete the curriculum and understand the revealed word…”

You (gently but firmly): “That’s not what I asked. I asked if you’d still be saved if you left SCJ. Can you be saved without SCJ?”

Them: “SCJ is where God is gathering the 144,000…”

You (interrupting gently): “Again, that’s not an answer. Let me ask it differently: Can someone be saved by faith in Jesus Christ alone, without ever hearing of Shincheonji?”

Them (struggling): “They need to understand the revealed word to be truly saved…”

You (key moment): “Do you hear what you just said? You just said faith in Jesus isn’t enough. You just said people need SCJ to be saved. That means your faith isn’t in Jesus—it’s in an organization.

Let me show you what the Bible says about salvation:

Acts 16:30-31 – The Philippian jailer asked Paul and Silas, ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?’ They replied, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.’

Notice what they didn’t say:

• They didn’t say, ‘Complete our 6-month curriculum’
• They didn’t say, ‘Understand the revealed word’
• They didn’t say, ‘Join our organization’
• They didn’t say, ‘Study under the promised pastor’

They said: ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus.’ Period. That’s it. That’s the gospel.

Romans 10:9 – ‘If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.’

Again, notice what’s not required:

• No mention of a special organization
• No mention of advanced Bible knowledge
• No mention of a promised pastor
• No mention of understanding Revelation

Just: Believe Jesus is Lord. Believe He rose from the dead. Confess this. You’re saved.

Ephesians 2:8-9 – ‘For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.’

Salvation is a gift. You receive it by faith. Not by completing a curriculum. Not by joining an organization. Not by understanding secret knowledge.

But SCJ seems to have added requirements. SCJ appears to say:

• You need to understand the ‘revealed word’
• You need to study under the ‘promised pastor’
• You need to be part of the 144,000
• You need to complete their program

That doesn’t sound like the gospel. That sounds like a different gospel. And Paul warned about this:

Galatians 1:6-9 – ‘I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse!’

Paul says if anyone—even an angel—preaches a different gospel, they’re under a curse. That’s how serious this is.

So I’m asking you again: Can you be saved by faith in Jesus Christ alone, without Shincheonji? If your answer is anything other than ‘yes,’ then you might not be trusting in Jesus—you might be trusting in an organization. And that may not be Christianity. That might be something else.”

What this may accomplish:

• Highlights that SCJ’s gospel may be organization-dependent, not Christ-dependent
• Uses clear biblical passages about salvation
• Suggests they may have accepted a “different gospel”
• Invites them to articulate where their faith actually rests
• Shows the potential addition of requirements to simple faith
• Invokes Paul’s strong warning about false gospels

Biblical foundation: John 14:6 records Jesus saying, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Not through Jesus and the promised pastor. Just through Jesus. 1 Timothy 2:5 states, “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.” One mediator. Not Jesus plus Lee Man-hee. Not Jesus plus SCJ. Just Jesus. John 3:16 declares, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Whoever believes in Him. Not “whoever completes the SCJ curriculum.” Not “whoever understands the revealed word.” Whoever believes.

Strategy 8: The “Good News Test”

How it works: Ask them to share the “good news” (gospel) and gently show how SCJ’s version may not actually be good news at all—it might be a burden.

Example dialogue:

You: “The word ‘gospel’ means ‘good news.’ So tell me: What’s the good news of Shincheonji? If I asked you to share the gospel with me right now, what would you say?”

Them: “The good news is that prophecy is being fulfilled and God is gathering the 144,000…”

You (interrupting gently): “Okay, but how is that good news for me? What does that mean for my life? For my eternity?”

Them: “If you study and understand the revealed word, you can be part of the 144,000…”

You (key moment): “Do you hear what you just said? Your ‘good news’ is: ‘If you study, if you understand, if you complete the program, then maybe you can be part of the 144,000.’

That doesn’t sound like good news. That sounds like conditional news. That’s ‘do this and maybe you’ll be saved’ news.

Let me show you what the biblical good news sounds like:

Romans 5:8 – ‘But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.’

That’s good news! While I was still a sinner—before I did anything, before I understood anything, before I joined anything—Christ died for me. That’s grace.

John 3:16 – ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.’

That’s good news! Whoever believes. Not ‘whoever completes the curriculum.’ Not ‘whoever understands the mysteries.’ Whoever believes.

1 John 5:13 – ‘I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.’

That’s good news! You can know you have eternal life. Not ‘maybe if you’re faithful enough.’ Not ‘only the promised pastor knows.’ You can know.

But SCJ’s gospel seems to create anxiety, not assurance:

• You don’t know if you’re sealed
• You don’t know if you truly understand
• You don’t know if you’re faithful enough
• You don’t know if you’ll complete the requirements
• You’re constantly striving, constantly uncertain

That doesn’t sound like good news. That sounds like a burden. And Jesus said:

Matthew 11:28-30 – ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.’

Jesus offers rest. His burden is light. But SCJ seems to offer endless study, constant striving, perpetual uncertainty. That’s a heavy burden.

So I’m asking you: Is what you’ve found in SCJ actually good news? Does it bring you rest? Does it give you assurance? Or does it create anxiety and dependency?

Because if it’s not good news, if it doesn’t bring rest, if it doesn’t give assurance—it might not be the gospel of Jesus Christ.”

What this may accomplish:

• Highlights that SCJ’s message may not actually be “good news”
• Contrasts the potential burden of SCJ with the rest of Christ
• Shows that biblical gospel brings assurance, not anxiety
• Reveals the potentially conditional nature of SCJ’s salvation
• Uses Jesus’ own words about His “easy yoke”
• Invites them to examine whether they have peace or anxiety

Follow-up questions:

“Let me ask you personally:

• Do you have peace about your salvation?
• Do you know you’re saved, or are you hoping you might be?
• Do you feel rest in your faith, or are you constantly anxious about whether you’re doing enough?
• When you go to bed at night, do you have assurance, or do you have doubt?
• If you died tonight, are you confident you’d go to heaven? Or would you say ‘I hope so’ or ‘I think so’?

Because the biblical gospel gives you confidence to say: ‘I know I’m saved. Not because of what I’ve done, but because of what Jesus has done. Not because I’ve completed a program, but because I’ve trusted in Christ.’

Can you say that? And if you can’t, doesn’t that suggest something might be wrong?”

Strategy 9: The “Cult Checklist” Approach

How it works: Gently walk through characteristics of high-control groups and ask them to honestly assess whether SCJ fits the pattern.

Example dialogue:

You: “I want to share something with you, and I need you to hear me out without getting defensive. Can you do that?”

Them: “Okay…”

You: “I’ve been researching high-control groups—what some people call cults—and there are specific characteristics that experts have identified. I want to go through them with you, not to attack you, but because I care about you and I’m concerned. Will you honestly tell me whether SCJ fits these patterns?”

Them (hesitant): “Okay…”

You: “These come from Dr. Steven Hassan, a cult expert who wrote ‘Combating Cult Mind Control.’ He developed something called the BITE Model—Behavior Control, Information Control, Thought Control, and Emotional Control. Let me ask you about a few specific things:

Information Control:

1. Do they discourage you from reading critical information about SCJ?”

Them: “Well, they say a lot of it is persecution or lies…”

You: “So it seems they do. They may be controlling what information you’re allowed to consider. Have you actually read what former members say? Have you researched both sides? Or have you only heard SCJ’s version?

2. Do they have different levels of information, where only certain people know the full truth?”

Them: “There’s a curriculum structure…”

You: “So yes. Information appears to be gatekept. Why would God’s truth need to be hidden behind levels? Jesus said in John 18:20, ‘I have spoken openly to the world… I said nothing in secret.’ Why might SCJ operate differently than Jesus?

3. Do they discourage you from talking to former members?”

Them: “They say former members are bitter and will try to confuse us…”

You: “So yes. They seem to prevent you from hearing the other side. Doesn’t that concern you? If SCJ’s claims are true, they should withstand scrutiny from all sides. Why might they be concerned about you hearing from people who left?

Behavior Control:

4. Do they control your time—filling it with meetings, classes, and activities?”

Them: “Well, there are classes multiple times a week, and events, and…”

You: “So yes. When was the last time you had a free evening? When was the last time you could just rest without feeling guilty about not attending something?

5. Do they tell you who you can spend time with—encouraging relationships with members and discouraging relationships with non-members?”

Them: “They say it’s important to be around people who understand…”

You: “So yes. They may be isolating you. Have you noticed you’re spending less time with family and old friends? That’s often considered a major red flag.

Thought Control:

6. Do they have loaded language—special terms that only members understand?”

Them: “We use biblical terms…”

You: “Like ‘revealed word,’ ‘promised pastor,’ ‘one who overcomes,’ ‘Tabernacle Temple’—terms that have specific SCJ meanings. So yes. This can create an us-vs-them mentality and may make it harder to think critically.

7. Do they teach that questioning or doubting is wrong—that it’s from Satan or shows lack of faith?”

Them: “They say we need to have faith and not be influenced by doubts…”

You: “So yes. They may be teaching you to suppress critical thinking. But the Bible encourages testing and examination. Acts 17:11 praises the Bereans for examining the Scriptures daily to see if what Paul said was true. Why might SCJ discourage what the Bible encourages?

Emotional Control:

8. Do they create fear about leaving—saying you’ll lose salvation, be destroyed, or face consequences?”

Them: “They say this is where God is working, and if you leave…”

You: “So yes. They may be using fear to keep you there. But 1 John 4:18 says, ‘There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear.’ If God’s love is perfect, why would His truth require fear to keep you?

9. Do they create guilt—making you feel like you’re never doing enough, never faithful enough, never understanding enough?”

Them: “I do feel like I need to study more, be more faithful…”

You: “So yes. They may be using guilt as control. But Romans 8:1 says, ‘Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.’ Jesus offers freedom from guilt, not constant condemnation.”

You (key moment): “I just walked through nine characteristics of high-control groups, and SCJ seems to fit every single one. Every. Single. One.

Now, I know what you might be thinking: ‘But we’re not a cult, we’re just studying the Bible.’ But that’s what members of many high-control groups say. They don’t think they’re in a cult—they think they’ve found the truth.

So I’m asking you: Can you step back and honestly look at this? Can you see the patterns? And more importantly, are you willing to research this yourself—not just from SCJ sources, but from former members, from cult experts, from independent sources?

Because if SCJ is the truth, it will withstand examination. But if it’s a high-control group, they’ll tell you not to look. Which one is it?”

What this may accomplish:

• Provides objective criteria for evaluation
• Uses expert analysis (Dr. Hassan’s BITE Model)
• Shows pattern recognition across multiple categories
• May make them aware of control mechanisms they haven’t noticed
• Invites them to research independently
• Uses Scripture to contrast SCJ’s methods with biblical principles

Biblical foundation: 1 Thessalonians 5:21 commands, “Test everything; hold fast what is good.” You’re asking them to test, which is biblical. If SCJ discourages testing, that doesn’t align with this verse. Proverbs 14:15 states, “The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.” Being prudent means examining carefully, not accepting blindly. 1 John 4:1 instructs, “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” The Bible commands testing. If SCJ forbids it, that alone might be a significant concern.

The Reality: Vagueness May Be a Shield

Understanding that vagueness might be a deliberate strategy—not poor communication—changes how you respond. You may not be dealing with someone who’s confused or inarticulate. You might be dealing with someone who’s been trained to withhold information.

When you gently press past the vagueness with specific questions, clear examples, and biblical truth, you may be doing several things:

• Potentially exposing the emptiness behind the spiritual language
• Creating cognitive dissonance as they realize they might not be able to defend what they claim to believe
• Planting seeds of doubt that may grow over time
• Demonstrating what genuine faith looks like—faith that can be articulated, defended, and lived out with clarity and conviction

Your goal isn’t to win an argument. Your goal is to love them enough to refuse to accept vagueness as a substitute for truth. Because truth matters. And their eternal destiny may depend on whether they encounter someone willing to press past the fog and point them to the clear light of the gospel.

Be patient. Be persistent. Be compassionate. And trust that God can use your questions to open their eyes to the truth.

The Critical Moment: When They Reach Out

This might be what you’ve been waiting for. After weeks, months, or even years of silence or difficult conversations, they reach out. Maybe it’s a text: “Can we talk?” Maybe it’s a phone call where their voice sounds different—uncertain, scared, vulnerable. Maybe it’s a confession: “I think you might have been right.”

This is a critical moment. How you respond in the next few hours and days could significantly influence whether they successfully exit or get pulled back in.

Here’s what might be helpful to know:

Phase 1: The Initial Reach-Out (First 24-48 Hours)

What May Be Happening in Their Mind

When someone first reaches out with doubts, they’re likely in a state of extreme cognitive dissonance and fear:

• They’re probably terrified they’re making the wrong decision
• They’re likely afraid of losing their community/friends
• They may be worried about their salvation
• They probably feel guilty for doubting
• They’re likely exhausted from the internal conflict
• They may still be partially defending SCJ even as they express doubts

Think of them as standing on the edge of a cliff, trying to decide whether to jump. They need you to show them there’s solid ground on the other side, but they also need to make the decision themselves.

What Might NOT Be Helpful

❌ Avoid saying “I told you so”

This could shame them and might push them back to SCJ, where they’ll likely be told “See? People outside are judgmental.”

❌ Try not to overwhelm them with information

They’re probably already overwhelmed. Too much information at once might paralyze them.

❌ Avoid pressuring them to leave immediately

They likely need to process at their own pace. Pressure can create panic, and panic might drive them back to the familiar.

❌ Be careful about excessively badmouthing SCJ or Lee Man-hee

They may still have emotional attachment. Attacking what they’ve invested in could feel like attacking them personally.

❌ Try not to make it about you

“I’ve been so worried!” “Do you know what this has done to me?” This might make them feel guilty and responsible for your emotions.

What Might Be Helpful

✅ Listen more than you talk

You: “I’m so glad you reached out. I’m here to listen. What’s been going on?”

[Then be quiet. Let them talk. Try not to interrupt or correct. Just listen.]

✅ Validate their feelings

You: “It makes complete sense that you’re feeling confused/scared/overwhelmed. What you’re going through is really difficult.”

[This can normalize their experience and reduce shame.]

✅ Affirm their courage

You: “It takes a lot of courage to question something you’ve invested so much in. I’m proud of you for being willing to examine this.”

[This reframes doubt as strength, not weakness.]

✅ Ask open-ended questions

You: “What made you start questioning?”

You: “What are you most concerned about right now?”

You: “How are you feeling about all of this?”

[This can help them process and gives you insight into where they are mentally.]

✅ Reassure them about salvation

If they express fear about their salvation, it might be helpful to address this immediately:

You: “I want you to know something really important: Your salvation doesn’t depend on being in Shincheonji. The Bible is clear: ‘If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved’ (Romans 10:9). That’s it. That’s the gospel. You don’t need SCJ to be saved. You never did.”

[This addresses their deepest fear and removes the primary manipulation tool SCJ may use.]

✅ Offer specific, practical support

You: “What do you need right now? Do you need someone to talk to? A place to stay? Help figuring out next steps? I’m here for whatever you need.”

[Concrete offers may be more helpful than vague “I’m here for you” statements.]

✅ Don’t rush them

You: “You don’t have to make any decisions right now. You can take your time to process. I’m not going anywhere.”

[This reduces pressure and gives them space to think clearly.]

Phase 2: The Decision to Leave (Days to Weeks)

What May Be Happening

They’re likely moving from doubt to decision. This can be a particularly vulnerable phase because:

• SCJ might sense something is wrong and increase pressure
• They may be love-bombed by members
• They’ll likely be told their doubts are from Satan
• They may be isolated or monitored more closely
• They’ll probably feel intense guilt about “abandoning” their friends

They may need a clear exit plan and strong support.

Help Them Create an Exit Plan

1. Assess Their Situation

Ask questions to understand their level of involvement:

• How many times per week do they attend?
• Do they live with SCJ members?
• Are they financially dependent on SCJ members?
• Do they have a job outside of SCJ?
• Do SCJ members have access to their home?
• Are family members also in SCJ?

2. Identify Immediate Safety Concerns

• Do they feel physically safe?
• Are they being monitored or followed?
• Do they have access to their own documents (passport, ID, etc.)?
• Do they have financial resources?
• Do they have a safe place to go?

If there are safety concerns, those should be prioritized first.

3. Plan the Logistics

For someone who lives alone:

• Choose a day/time to stop attending (preferably when they have support)
• Prepare for contact from members (decide whether to block, ignore, or respond)
• Have a plan for how to spend the time they used to spend at SCJ
• Identify support people they can call

For someone who lives with SCJ members:

• They may need to move out—help them find housing
• Plan the move for when roommates are out
• Have people help with the physical move
• Secure important documents and belongings first
• Consider whether to tell roommates in advance or just leave (often just leaving may be safer)

For someone who’s financially dependent:

• Help them find employment
• Connect them with resources (family, friends, social services)
• Create a budget
• Open a separate bank account if needed

4. Prepare for the Emotional Fallout

Help them anticipate what might happen:

You: “When you stop attending, here’s what will probably happen:

• Members will likely contact you constantly—calls, texts, showing up at your door
• They’ll probably tell you that you’re making a huge mistake
• They may say you’re being deceived by Satan
• They’ll likely love-bomb you—suddenly everyone will want to spend time with you
• They may use guilt—’We’re so worried about you,’ ‘You’re breaking our hearts’
• They might send leaders to talk to you
• Eventually, when they realize you’re not coming back, they’ll likely cut you off completely

This is all fairly predictable. It seems to be part of their system. Knowing it’s coming might make it easier to handle.”

5. Decide on Communication Strategy

Option A: Clean Break (Often Recommended)

• Block or ignore all SCJ contacts
• Don’t respond to messages
• Don’t attend “one last meeting”
• Don’t try to explain or justify

Why this often works: It can prevent manipulation and makes the break clean. You can’t be talked back in if you’re not engaging.

Option B: Brief Explanation

• Send one message explaining the decision
• Don’t engage in debate
• Block after sending

Example message: “I’ve decided to leave Shincheonji. This decision is final. I appreciate the time we spent together, but I need to move forward. Please respect my decision and don’t contact me further. I wish you well.”

Why this often works: It can provide closure and clarity without opening the door to manipulation.

Option C: Gradual Fade (Often Less Effective)

• Slowly reduce attendance
• Make excuses
• Eventually stop going

Why this often doesn’t work well: It can prolong the difficulty, gives SCJ more opportunities to pull them back in, and may create more stress.

Generally, a clean break tends to be most effective.

Phase 3: The First Month After Leaving

What May Be Happening

This is often the most vulnerable period. They’re likely experiencing:

• Intense loneliness (they’ve lost their entire social circle)
• Identity crisis (SCJ was their identity)
• Grief (mourning what they’ve lost)
• Guilt (feeling like they abandoned people)
• Fear (what if SCJ was right?)
• Anger (at SCJ for deceiving them, at themselves for being deceived)
• Confusion (what do I believe now?)
• Withdrawal symptoms (similar to addiction—they’re used to constant activity and stimulation)

They likely need intensive support during this time.

How to Support Them

1. Be Available

• Check in daily, even if just a text: “Thinking of you. How are you doing today?”
• Be available for phone calls, especially in the evening (when they used to be at SCJ)
• Invite them to activities to fill the time
• Try to be consistent—consistency can be crucial

2. Normalize Their Experience

You: “What you’re feeling is completely normal. You’re grieving. You’ve lost your community, your routine, your sense of purpose. That’s a huge loss, even though leaving was the right decision. It’s okay to feel sad, angry, confused, all of it. You’re not crazy. This is what leaving a high-control group often feels like.”

3. Help Them Rebuild Identity

They’ve lost their identity as an SCJ member. Help them rediscover who they are:

• What did they enjoy before SCJ?
• What are their interests, hobbies, passions?
• What are their strengths and gifts?
• What do they value?

You: “Let’s talk about who you are outside of SCJ. What did you love doing before you joined? What have you always wanted to try? What makes you come alive?”

4. Help Them Process the Experience

• Encourage them to journal
• Let them talk about their experience without judgment
• Help them identify what was true vs. what might have been manipulation
• Validate both the good experiences (friendships, sense of purpose) and the bad (deception, control)

You: “It’s okay to acknowledge that there were good things—the friendships felt real, the sense of purpose was meaningful. That doesn’t mean SCJ was true. It means you’re a human being who found connection and meaning, which is what we all need. The problem wasn’t you—it was that SCJ may have exploited those needs.”

5. Address Spiritual Confusion

They may be questioning everything about faith. This is often normal.

You: “It’s okay to have questions. It’s okay to doubt. God is big enough to handle your questions. You don’t have to have everything figured out right now. Take your time. Explore. Read. Pray. It’s okay to deconstruct what you believed and rebuild slowly.”

Encourage them to:

• Read the Bible without SCJ’s interpretation
• Explore different Christian perspectives
• Visit different churches (if they’re ready)
• Talk to a pastor or counselor who understands cults
• Give themselves permission to not have all the answers

6. Watch for Warning Signs

Potential red flags that they might be struggling significantly:

• Talking about going back to SCJ
• Expressing suicidal thoughts
• Severe depression or anxiety
• Inability to function (not eating, not sleeping, not working)
• Isolating completely
• Substance abuse

If you notice these signs:

• Take them seriously
• Encourage professional help (therapist, counselor)
• Don’t try to handle it alone
• If there’s immediate danger, call emergency services

7. Celebrate Small Wins

• “You made it a week without contact—that’s huge!”
• “You went to a social event—I’m so proud of you!”
• “You’re asking questions and thinking critically—that’s growth!”

Positive reinforcement can help them see progress.

Phase 4: Long-Term Recovery (Months to Years)

What May Be Happening

They’re rebuilding their life. This might include:

• Forming new friendships
• Establishing new routines
• Rediscovering or forming beliefs
• Processing trauma
• Rebuilding trust
• Forgiving themselves

This is typically a marathon, not a sprint.

How to Support Long-Term

1. Continue to Be Present

Don’t assume they’re “fine” just because they seem to be doing better. Try to check in regularly.

2. Encourage Professional Help

• Therapist who specializes in religious trauma or cult recovery
• Support groups for former cult members
• Spiritual director or pastor who understands their experience

3. Help Them Connect with Others

• Introduce them to your friend group
• Invite them to activities
• Help them find communities (church, hobby groups, etc.)
• Connect them with other former SCJ members if possible

4. Be Patient with Their Process

They may:

• Have setbacks
• Go through phases of anger, grief, doubt
• Question everything
• Struggle with trust
• Have triggers (certain words, places, situations)

This is often all normal. Recovery isn’t usually linear.

5. Educate Yourself

Consider learning about:

• Religious trauma syndrome
• Cult recovery
• PTSD and complex PTSD
• Spiritual abuse

The more you understand, the better you might be able to support them.

6. Encourage Them to Help Others (When Ready)

Eventually, they may want to share their story to help others. This can be healing, but timing matters.

Signs they might be ready:

• They can talk about their experience without being retraumatized
• They have healthy boundaries
• They’re not doing it out of anger or revenge
• They have support in place

Ways they might help:

• Share their testimony online
• Connect with others who are questioning
• Participate in awareness efforts
• Support others who are leaving

But try not to push this. Let them decide when/if they’re ready.

Special Situations

If They’re Considering Going Back

This is fairly common, especially in the first few months. Try not to panic.

You: “I hear that you’re thinking about going back. Can you tell me what’s making you consider that?”

Common reasons:

• Loneliness: “I miss my friends.”
• Fear: “What if I was wrong to leave?”
• Guilt: “I feel like I abandoned people.”
• Identity crisis: “I don’t know who I am anymore.”
• Nostalgia: “I remember the good times.”

Try to address the underlying need, not just the surface desire:

For loneliness: “I understand you miss your friends. Loneliness is so hard. Let’s talk about ways to build new connections. What if we [specific activity]?”

For fear: “It’s normal to second-guess yourself. But let’s look at the reasons you left. Are those reasons still valid? [Review the evidence together.]”

For guilt: “You didn’t abandon anyone. You made a healthy choice for yourself. You can’t save everyone, and you can’t set yourself on fire to keep others warm.”

For identity crisis: “You’re not just an ex-SCJ member. You’re [their name]. You’re [their qualities, interests, strengths]. Let’s explore who you are outside of any organization.”

For nostalgia: “It’s okay to remember good times. But let’s remember the full picture—the good AND the bad. Let’s make a list of both.”

Then gently remind them:

You: “Going back probably won’t solve the underlying issues. It might just delay dealing with them. And you’d likely have to go through leaving all over again. You’ve come so far. Let’s keep moving forward.”

If Family Members Are Still In

This can be incredibly painful. They’re grieving the loss of family relationships while family members are still in SCJ.

You: “I’m so sorry. This is one of the hardest parts. You can’t force your family to leave. All you can do is live your life in a way that shows them there’s life outside SCJ. Be healthy, be happy, be available. And trust that God is working in their lives too.”

Encourage them to:

• Set boundaries with family (no SCJ discussions)
• Maintain contact if possible, but protect themselves
• Grieve the current state of the relationship
• Hope for future reconciliation while accepting current reality
• Connect with others who understand (support groups)

If They Want to Report SCJ

They may want to report SCJ to authorities, media, or their former church. Support this, but help them think through it:

Questions to consider:

• What’s your goal? (Awareness? Justice? Closure?)
• Are you in a mental/emotional place to handle potential backlash?
• Do you have documentation/evidence?
• Have you consulted with a lawyer if needed?
• Do you have support in place?

If they decide to move forward:

• Help them prepare their story
• Connect them with journalists, cult awareness organizations, or attorneys who specialize in this
• Be there for emotional support
• Remind them that the outcome is not their responsibility—they’re just telling their truth

Final Encouragement for You

Helping someone leave a cult can be exhausting. It’s often emotionally draining. It requires patience, compassion, and endurance. You may feel like you’re not doing enough. You may wonder if it’s making a difference.

But it likely is.

Your presence matters. Your consistency matters. Your willingness to listen without judgment matters. Your refusal to give up on them matters.

You may be being the hands and feet of Jesus to someone who’s been deceived and is finding their way back to truth.

Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Try not to give up. Keep showing up. Keep loving them. Keep pointing them to truth.

And trust that God is at work, even when you can’t see it.

Because you might not remember everything in the heat of the moment, here’s a condensed guide you can reference quickly:

When They First Approach You

✅ Consider Doing:

• Ask about their personal testimony
• Request specific, verifiable details
• Compare to biblical examples
• Point out vagueness compassionately
• Use Scripture to test claims

❌ Try to Avoid:

• Attacking them personally
• Accepting “come to class” as an answer
• Letting them redirect without addressing your questions
• Assuming they’re intentionally deceiving you

Key Questions to Consider Asking

• “What’s your personal testimony? How has this changed YOUR life?”
• “Can you explain this in your own words, not using curriculum language?”
• “Can you provide specific, verifiable evidence for these historical claims?”
• “Can someone be saved by faith in Jesus alone, without SCJ?”
• “Have you researched both sides—what former members and critics say?”

Key Scriptures That May Be Helpful

On Salvation:

• Acts 16:31 – “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved”
• Romans 10:9 – Confession and belief, nothing else required
• Ephesians 2:8-9 – Salvation by grace through faith, not works

On Testing/Discernment:

• 1 Thessalonians 5:21 – “Test everything”
• 1 John 4:1 – “Test the spirits”
• Acts 17:11 – Bereans examined the Scriptures daily

On False Teachers:

• Galatians 1:8-9 – Warning about those who preach a different gospel
• Matthew 7:15-16 – “By their fruit you will recognize them”
• 2 Peter 2:1-3 – Warning about false teachers who may exploit with fabricated stories

On One Mediator:

• 1 Timothy 2:5 – “One mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus”
• John 14:6 – “I am the way and the truth and the life”

When It Might Be Time to Walk Away

Consider walking away if:

• They’re not engaging honestly (just repeating scripts)
• They’re using manipulation tactics (guilt, fear, gaslighting)
• Your mental/spiritual health is suffering
• They’re becoming more entrenched, not less
• They’ve violated boundaries repeatedly

When They’re Ready to Leave

Immediate Priorities:

• Listen without judgment
• Validate their feelings
• Reassure about salvation
• Assess safety concerns
• Help create exit plan
• Be consistently available

First Month After Leaving:

• Daily check-ins
• Help fill time previously spent at SCJ
• Normalize their experience
• Watch for warning signs (depression, suicidal thoughts)
• Celebrate small wins

Conclusion: The Long View

If you’ve read this far, you may now have:

• Understanding of what SCJ is and how it might operate
• Knowledge of their potentially deceptive recruitment tactics
• Ability to identify what may be theological errors
• Strategies for responding to vague answers
• Possible responses to their common defenses
• Wisdom about when to walk away
• Tools to help someone who’s ready to leave

But here’s what I hope you’ll remember above all:

This isn’t ultimately about winning arguments. It’s about loving people who may have been deceived and pointing them back to the true Jesus.

The true Jesus who:

• Doesn’t require a curriculum to know Him
• Doesn’t need a human mediator
• Offers salvation by grace through faith alone
• Gives rest, not burden
• Brings freedom, not control
• Creates assurance, not anxiety

Your role isn’t to save them. Your role might be to:

• Speak truth in love
• Ask questions that create doubt
• Model what healthy faith looks like
• Be available when they’re ready
• Trust God with the outcome

Some may leave quickly. Some may take years. Some may never leave. That’s not your responsibility. Your responsibility is faithfulness, not results.

2 Timothy 2:24-26 – “And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.”

Notice:

• Be kind
• Gently instruct
• Hope that GOD will grant repentance
• They will come to their senses

You plant seeds. You water. But God gives the growth (1 Corinthians 3:6).

So consider going forward with:

• Confidence in the truth
• Compassion for the deceived
• Courage to speak up
• Patience for the process
• Hope in God’s power to save

You’re not alone in this. God is with you. And there are thousands of former SCJ members who are proof that people CAN leave, people CAN recover, and people CAN find freedom.

Be faithful. Be patient. Be loving.

And trust that truth will prevail.