Recently, in a conversation with a friend, I told him that I had a fascination in watching historical depictions about the early struggles of our country. I told him the struggle for independence from Great Britain was similar in many respects to a Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) member deciding to leave the group. He said he could see the similarities. In an effort to explain life inside of WOFF, I will share my thoughts from my time and observation while inside.

Last night, I watched another installment of the HBO documentary series “John Adams.” The beginning of the mini-series shows the struggles of our country and the divisions which took place over the idea of independence from the mother country- England. The leaders first expressing such radical thoughts as making a Declaration of Independence were not always received with gladness. The American colonies were divided at times and there was much heated debate between many who would later end up with their names etched in our history books. England supposedly offered “protection.” The downside was the taxation without representation in Parliament as a cost for such “protection.” Yet, the King’s edicts were to be followed regardless. He spoke and those in his kingdom were to obey. Long live the King! And your personal opinions did not count and could cost you dearly, if they were contrary to the King.

Watching the first two installments of the series reminded me of the struggle for my independence. I was declaring my freedom and yet, those who stayed declared their “allegiance to God” by staying in WOFF. What was it really that? Were they saying Jane offered “protection” by her gift and insights into the will of God and to leave was a risk. As hard as it may be to believe, the often unspoken fears which attach themselves to WOFF members were all cloaked in religious words which deceived the hearer. Likewise, the edicts which came out of England years ago were cloaked in rhetoric meant to reshape opinions, modify behaviors and yet those who spoke them seemed convinced of their truth. To openly doubt and discredit the King carried severe consequences. For our forefathers, the ultimate threat was death. Does that sound familiar? Jane proclaims early and untimely deaths for many who leave her fold. Though, she does not use the title, she is Queen and she believes she deserves the right to be Queen because God has called her to be so. Many leaders throughout history have proclaimed themselves as God’s chosen. Jane is just another in the long list. Right?

For WOFF members to openly talk about leaving or even doubting Jane’s gift of always hearing God clearer than anyone else was asking for trouble. Jane lives like a Queen and certainly requires loyalty to her such as a Queen “deserves.” In years past, I have often wondered if that was why members from Europe had no trouble accepting Jane’s Queenship and rule of power. Were they used to the idea of a human being having the right to tell you how to go to the bathroom, who to love, where to live, what to wear, how to talk, how to think, where to work and how to discipline your children? If you were used to monarchy measures, then maybe you had less trouble finding comfort in the WOFF sub-culture, right?

In my opinion, the pyramidal structure of the WOFF group is an absolute religious monarchy. Cloaked in tons of Scripture quotations meant to justify the controls used, the sub-culture thrives on the notion that Jane is Queen and all others are her subjects. No, she does not call herself Queen. She requires many to call her Momma Jane of Grandma Jane. That is another layer of deception alluding to the “spiritual family bonds.” Jane exercises dictatorial control over her subjects. If you doubt, then observe. How many are encouraged to freely read information sources which go contrary to WOFF ways? Also, unlike Great Britain, there was no Parliament or elected representation inside of WOFF. Are you kidding me? Only Jane and Jane only — has the final say in all matters.

As difficult as it is to put into words, describing life behind the lily white doors of WOFF can begin by trying to imagine a place where one person has total control over your life AND it is not you. Nothing is said, nothing is done, nothing is purchased, nothing is decided without the unspoken understanding that if Jane says you were wrong; you were wrong to buy, say, act or think a certain thing. The penalty for not believing Jane’s supremacy is certain “death.” She requires that at a minimum there is death to the relationships you have known for years; maybe your job or your housing all could change when you don’t conform, Long Live the Queen!

There is a price for living in Jane’s kingdom and that my friend is not explained when you join the Kingdom of Jane. Or is it Queendom? Breaking free from WOFF is more difficult than reading about the struggles at the beginning of our country. At least for those in years past, the King of England was 3000 miles away. At WOFF, the Queen has face to face control of her subjects and that makes leaving much more difficult. She also has her enforcers; Red Coats if you will, for those who talk of leaving. Oh, yes, Jane has her army to enforce her will. A very forceful army, I am told. We can take that up at another time. Does the term “absolute religious monarchy” help you understand life inside of WOFF? See Here for more information on an absolute monarchy.

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

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Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted. (Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 489.