Available on Spotify, Google, and Apple Podcasts: https://william-branham.org/podcast
Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR: Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1735160962
Come Out of Her My People Vol II: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DNFN2XYR
John and Charles examine the controversial doctrine of Perusia and its role in the fragmentation of a religious movement. They explore how this theological concept, originally meaning “presence” in Greek and referring to the second coming, was reinterpreted by Lee Vayle, a close associate of William Branham. The discussion unpacks how Vayle’s teaching that Jesus Christ returned spiritually in 1963, along with his claim that Christ left the “mercy seat,” sparked internal conflict among followers. This disagreement created deep divisions, painting those who questioned the doctrine as worse than unbelievers. The duo also reflects on how such ideas evolved through time and splintered into new groups.
As the conversation progresses, John and Charles analyze how shifts in leadership, strange beliefs, and personal experiences caused further disillusionment among adherents. They highlight Lee Vayle’s increasing isolation, his unique interpretation of salvation, and the emotional impact of doctrines centered around fear and exclusivity. They also touch on more troubling aspects of Vayle’s later teachings, his growing doubts, and the disintegration of his sect following his death. Through historical context and firsthand reflections, the discussion traces the slow unraveling of one branch of the movement, offering insight into how belief systems evolve—and fracture—over time.
00:00 Introduction 01:08 What Is the Perusia Doctrine? 06:04 Lee Vayle’s Role as Branham’s Interpreter 10:12 Collapse of the 1977 Prophecy and Doctrinal Pivot 21:38 Christ Leaving the Mercy Seat: The Real Controversy 30:03 Global Spread and Internal Schism 36:21 Why Vayle’s Influence Never Grew 42:08 Inappropriate Teachings 54:01 Decline, Infighting, and Vayle’s Retirement 57:42 Doubts, Admissions, and Legacy of Regret
______________________ – Support the channel: https://www.patreon.com/branham – Subscribe to the channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBSpezVG15TVG-lOYMRXuyQ – Visit the website: https://william-branham.org – Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WilliamBranhamOrg – Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@william.m.branham – Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wmbhr – Buy the books: https://william-branham.org/site/books