What does “The Family International” believe?
The Family International, previously known as the Children of God (COG), is a “Christian” communal group that originated in 1968. Founded by David Berg, the group emphasizes Christian love and scripture-based teachings, with a main focus on prophecy and apocalyptic expectations. Other names for the group were “Teens for Christ”, “The Children of God” (1968-1978), “The Family of Love” (1978-1982), to simply “The Family” (1982-2004). The current same of the group (2004-present) is The Family International.
“The Family” has been accused of various forms of abuse, including:
Sexual abuse: Allegations of adult-child sex, pedophilia, and sexual exploitation have been made against the group.
Financial exploitation: Former members have reported being forced to surrender their personal belongings and finances to the group’s leaders.
Emotional manipulation: The group’s authoritarian structure and charismatic leadership have been criticized for causing emotional trauma and psychological distress among members.
In 2010, the group officially disbanded and reformed as a small online network, claiming to have around 1,500 members in 80 countries. However, some critics argue that the group’s core ideology and abusive practices continue to persist in modified forms.
The Family's Biblical Apocalyptic Beliefs
The Family’s teachings and practices are influenced by various biblical interpretations and apocalyptic beliefs. Here are some key findings:
Apocalyptic eschatology: “The Family’s” teachings seem to be rooted in apocalyptic eschatology, which emphasizes the imminent end of the world and the revelation of God’s judgment. This perspective is reflected in their emphasis on the “end times” and the need for believers to prepare for the Second Coming.
Dispensational premillennialism: “The Family’s” beliefs may be influenced by dispensational premillennialism, which predicts a literal, thousand-year reign of Christ on earth after his second coming. This view is characterized by a focus on biblical prophecies and the identification of specific events and figures (e.g., the Antichrist, the Tribulation) leading up to the end times.
Literal interpretation of biblical prophecy: “The Family’s” teachings appear to rely on a literal interpretation of biblical prophecy, including apocalyptic passages like Daniel and Revelation. This approach emphasizes the fulfillment of specific prophecies and the need for believers to understand and prepare for the events described.
Focus on the Olivet Discourse: The Olivet Discourse in Mark 13, which describes Jesus’ teachings on the end times, may be a significant influence on “The Family’s” beliefs. This passage is often interpreted as a literal prediction of future events, including the destruction of Jerusalem and the Second Coming.
Importance of biblical typology: “The Family’s” teachings may also be shaped by biblical typology, which sees events and figures in the Old Testament as prefiguring or foreshadowing events and figures in the New Testament. This approach emphasizes the continuity and coherence of God’s plan throughout Scripture.
Emphasis on spiritual authority and revelation: The Family’s teachings seem to prioritize spiritual authority and revelation, with a focus on the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the interpretation of biblical prophecy. This emphasis on spiritual authority may lead to a strong sense of community and shared understanding among Family members.
Interestingly enough, in my brief period of research about THE FAMILY, I saw nothing regarding sin, salvation, Jesus substitutionary death in our place, Almighty God being the only supreme deity, etc. I think that their sexual practices definitely make them a cult. The harm that this group has inflicted on their members is noteworthy and with many video accounts of former members talking about their struggle to have a normal life after they left the group, there is absolutely NO question they are cultic in nature.
Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.
In His Name & for His Glory,
RL Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
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