Questions for Calvary Temple Members

Calvary Temple members,

I wonder if I might ask you a few questions, especially to those who have not seen or spoken to family members that have left Calvary Temple:

1. Are you very, very sure that you have a biblical mandate to cut off your spouse, children, grandchildren, parents, relatives or friends?  
2. Have you tried to find out if the people that have been cut off from members of Calvary Temple are truly in biblical sin? And if so, does the Bible really teach you that you are to have nothing to do with them because of that sin?
3. Have you contacted those who are cut off and spoken with them about their (supposed) sin? Heard the other side of the story? (does our law condemn a man without first hearing him to find out what he has been doing?  John 7:51. He that answers a matter before he hears it, it is folly and a shame to him. Proverbs 18:13).
4. If you do not know what has caused them to be shunned, found out if it is biblically mandated, and sought them out to hear the matter, then why have YOU shunned them? You have hated people just on the word of another?
5. Is leaving to attend another church a biblical mandate to shun someone?
6. Is wanting to marry someone outside of CT and attend another church a reason to destroy a family?
7. Is not wanting to remain under the leadership of a man who is not qualified to be a pastor (according to 1 Timothy) a reason to divorce your spouse?
8. Is the leadership of CT the only ones who can decide whom you should speak to?
9. Who is the head of your family? Calvary Temple Leadership or Jesus Christ? Star Scott or the husband/father/head of the household?
10. Who is to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit for the direction of your life? Calvary Temple leadership or you?
11. Should you blindly obey Calvary Temple leadership without knowing all the facts?
12. HOW LONG WILL YOU HIDE FROM THE TRUTH AND SUPPORT LIES?

A few specific questions to a some CT members:

• To the wife of M......   What biblical reason did you have to divorce your godly husband? Did you not promise to love him all the days of your life? What gave you the right to break the covenant of marriage? Was illness a reason to divorce him? Were you just too selfish to stand by your husband through the difficult times? What sin did he commit that caused you to cut off all hope of a long and godly marriage? Didn't God say He hates divorce?

• To the four F..... children: what exactly is your mother's sin? Are you absolutely positive she is not serving God? (and suppose she is not serving God, is that a reason to end a relationship with your mother?) What does it mean to honor your mother? Who did you always know her to be? Is it possible she is still the same loving, godly mother you always knew? Shouldn't you find out for yourself? What if she has only spoken the truth?  

• To the wife of A....:  What does the scripture mean concerning "pleased to dwell"? (a woman who has an unbelieving husband, and he consents to live with her, she must not send her husband away. 1 Cor 7:13).  If it does not apply in your situation, when does it apply? Why was this written if not for you, K....., to give your children their father and to give your husband an opportunity to be converted by what should be your chaste lifestyle? (that they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior. 1 Peter 3:2). What godly behavior does he see in you now?  

• To the wife of J....  How are you justified in divorcing your husband - the head of your household - because you do not agree with his decision to lead his family out of CT? (Wives, be subject to you own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself being the Savior of the body. Eph 5:22). Do you notice that Star Scott's name is not in that scripture? When does this scripture apply? Just when you want it to?

• To the son of R and P: Are you positive your parents are not serving God? and are you sure you are supposed to shun them because they do not attend CT? Are you to shun them because they have spoken the TRUTH about Calvary Temple leadership? What does the scripture mean to honor your parents? Please note that the scripture does not say you are to honor your parents only when they are obeying the leadership of Calvary Temple. It just says to honor them. Period.  

• To H... and M....:  I ask the same questions of you both. You have dishonored your parents for many years, all because they disagreed with the leadership of CT. Are they not serving God? Even if they weren't, how are you, the supposed Christians, to treat them?

• To the daughter of G... and M....:  I often think and pray for you and wonder how you lay your head on the pillow at night and not weep with shame. You know your parents, you know the love they have for Jesus, the lives they have led as they serve Jesus and His body. And yet you take the word of another man (or men) and refuse to stand against the lies and deceit. You know your parents have spoken only the truth. It is time for you to stand up and speak the truth yourself. Take your children and return to the home of your parents.  They will do whatever it takes to protect you and them.  

To many others in Calvary Temple that have shunned their family and friends, divided their homes, hated their brothers and sisters - I advise you to be very, very sure you are 100% right. If you are wrong, you are in opposition to God. You cannot hide behind leadership and say you were just being obedient. You must be obedient to God rather than to man. If you are wrong, you will find yourself answering to God for the destruction of families and even souls. And the truth is, you are wrong in believing the twisted lies of Calvary Temple leadership.

Please Read

Haven't had much time lately to write anything new but I recently read the following article.  It rings almost 100% true when comparing to Calvary Temple. Perhaps the only characteristic mentioned concerning abusive churches that does not apply to CT is "Frequent Changing of  Group/Church Name".  (At least for now.)  It is shocking how accurately Calvary is described  by this article.

In addition to the characteristics listed in this article, there are many others central to Calvary Temple that are discussed in other entries on this blog.

https://www.probe.org/abusive-churches/

He Said That? Part 3

We have looked at several quotes from Star Scott in the previous two posts. The following are further illumination of his apparent desire to be seen as above the congregation in his ability to hear from God for the purpose of not only running the church, but running your lives.

"We live in a day when we've  lost sight of the fact that God predominantly speaks to men that are placed by Him in roles of leadership." (Knowing God's Voice...Pt 2)

"And I want you to see that one of God's major methods of guidance is divine authority, spiritual authority, recognition and confidence in God's order, that allows me to be led by orders of my superiors."  (Knowing God's Voice...Pt 5)

"You're going to be deceived and you're going to become shipwrecked if you refuse to understand that God has put counselors, overseers, and spiritual authority into your life who will speak to you the Word of God.  They hear the Word of God from a different perspective and on a different level than you hear it."  (Knowing God's Voice..Pt 2)

He is stating unequivocally that one of our major methods of knowing God's guidance is by the established leadership.  Throughout the years we attended Calvary Temple, there were numerous teachings that established this "truth". Fortunately, the Word of God does not support this. The word of God shows us a new and better way.  As mentioned in the previous post, Star Scott has greatly exaggerated a biblical truth for his own purposes.

Much of the teaching entitled Knowing God's Voice, Doing God's Will  includes encouragement to put God's word above all else when seeking to hear God's Voice.  But once again, Star Scott has another message and the above quotes give us the real thought he wants to communicate.  He uses circular reasoning to say - yes, God's word is the primary source of leading but His word says obey them that have the rule over you, therefore, obey me and you will be fulfilling the scripture. (For an accurate explanation of the biblical meaning of Hebrews 13:17, read this) So in the end, Star Scott wants you to seek God in His Word and discover that God's primary source of leading is the men he has placed over you, your superiors.

This is not to say we should not seek counsel from a pastor nor follow the example of the godly men and women in our lives. And as far as how the church functions, of course we should follow the guidelines set down by those in authority. But for my own personal life and that of my family, I believe that God has set husbands as the priests of their own households and has given each one of us the gift of the Holy Spirit who leads and guides our individual lives. (Star Scott once said that the husband's only role in the family is to reinforce the teaching of the pastor and be sure it is carried out in his home.) The pastor is not to reach into the home and usurp the role of the husband. Beyond the order established for a church or home, each individual must hear from God - we each one will stand before God on our own. No pastor, husband, parent or other authority will be standing next to us. And if no one will be standing with us then surely God does not intend others to be responsible for our own relationship with Him. We are responsible, and He has given us the ability to walk this walk of faith.  Seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.  2 Peter 1:3

Why is this such an important subject? Because man is not infallible. Star Scott is not infallible. He does not have some special ability to hear God for my life that God has not given to me. An elder of a local congregation leads and guides the church for the sake of order and growth in the church. The danger comes when the members are convinced that to disobey the pastor (even when he is wrong - see previous post)  is to disobey God. And when the pastor himself is communicating that very message, the members must understand they are in a very dangerous, authoritarian, and even cult-like group.

The following scriptures tell us of the precious relationship God has granted each one of us through the death and resurrection of His Son. He gave His all so that the door would be opened and Jesus would come and have fellowship with us. Should we say - no, we want a king (man) over us? Jesus is our High Priest, not Star Scott.

Not that we have dominion over your faith, but are fellow workers for your joy (said Paul) 2 Cor 1:24

And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven's Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus.  By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place.   Hebrew 10: 19-20

My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they will follow Me.  John 10:27

For as many are led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God. Romans 8:14

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding: in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3: 5-6

Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, "this is the way, walk in it" whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left." Isaiah 30:21

But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. John 14:26

And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counselor to be with you forever - the Spirit of truth.  ....you know Him, for he lives with you and will be in you. John 14: 16-17

Some of us who spent many years under the teachings of Star Scott and his associates have had a difficult time recognizing the twisting of scripture that allows a pastor to gain control over our individual lives. I suggest researching the following subjects:  authoritarian churches, abusive churches, and religious abuse. The links posted on the right side of this blog are all very informative. As believers in Jesus Christ, we must protect ourselves from false teachers that deceive many. Please do not take lightly the many voices warning fellow believers of the unbiblical and dangerous teachings of Calvary Temple.

He Said That? Pt 2

In the previous post, we quoted Star Scott expressing his belief that he is always right and you are always wrong even when you may be right and he may be wrong. He attributes his "infallible rightness" to his position as an elder and your "defiant wrongness" to your position as a subordinate. In this post, we look at two additional quotes from Star Scott's teachings that reinforce his belief that he is alway right and the rest of us are always wrong (and the women are not only wrong but evil).

"I don't think we are the only ones ones who are right; but I think we're right, amen? When I share with somebody, there is no question  in my mind that  I'm right and they're wrong if we disagree." (A Little Leaven Pt 1 2008)

In context, Star Scott used the example of healing to illustrate why he is right and others are wrong. Someone is saying it is not God's will to be healed and Scott says of course it is - so therefore I am right and they are wrong. His "example" was limited to a clear biblical truth that the majority of bible believing Christians would agree with. But what was communicated? He uses an obvious example  to prove his point that he is always right and you are always wrong. In addition, he starts the comment saying WE are always right and ends it by saying "I'M  right". The congregation once again hears Star Scott's declaration of his innate rightness and position of authority.

Not only does Star Scott spend a lot of time reinforcing his superiority, he also communicates messages "between the lines". 

Please note the following conversation between Star Scott and his wife:

"I asked Greer this morning, "How would you summarize the message of the last six months? What have you heard over the last six months of our teachings? She thought for a minute, she said", "women are evil....I know that's how a woman is hearing it." (Ezra and Nehemiah Dec 2008)

Even Greer recognizes that the people, specifically the women, are hearing something other than what was being preached. Should not a pastor have grave concern if the message he is preaching is perceived as something entirely different? Apparently not Star Scott - he continued this message for six months.

Star Scott has long been known for exaggeration. In many ways we gave a pass to him - writing it off as "you know how Pastor Scott is - he exaggerates for effect". But that is exactly the point - he uses exaggeration to get across his hidden message. In this case, women are either seen as evil or at least suspect of being evil. Women apparently absorbed a message for at least 6 months that they are evil.   And it is not just the women hearing that they are evil, their husbands are hearing the same hidden message. (not to mention their children). Because they are now labeled "evil", women are less likely to speak, to ask questions, give their opinions, or disagree. And underlying all teachings is the ongoing message from Star Scott that he is ALWAYS RIGHT and SUPERIOR.

• But the wisdom from above is first  pure, then peaceable, gentle and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.  James 3:17
• For by grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought...Romans 12:3
• He that speaks truth shows forth righteousness, but a false witness, deceit. The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.   Proverbs 12:17,18
• For such people are not serving our Lord Jesus, but their own appetites.  By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.  Romans 16:18

Communicating the Word of God should be dependent upon speaking the word with purity, allowing the Holy Spirit to bring the message to each heart. It should not be done with exaggeration or with hidden messages, or with insistence on receiving the word from a superior vessel, i.e. Star Scott. The next post will highlight a couple of comments made by Star Scott that speak of his ability to hear the Word in ways that the rest of us just cannot achieve.  

He Said That? Part 1

The following is a quote from Star Scott of Calvary Temple that should cause all of us to be concerned. 

"The authority, even when it is wrong, is right. What I mean by that is this: as the subordinate, if I'm, right and defy the authority, then what has happened? I have become wrong, because it is not about the issue, primarily, it is about the heart." (Star Scott I will Build My Church Pt 7)

(The context of this teaching - I Will Build My Church - concerns spiritual authority and the elders placed in local churches. Though Star Scott says he is referring to non-doctrinal matters, he is in fact talking about someone being RIGHT and someone being WRONG. Therefore, his one example of "the time we start church" is not relevant. His statement is clearly talking about right vs wrong. The concept of authority vs subordinate is communicated as one being always right and one being always wrong. By extension, the hearer or reader understands this to mean he is not to bring truth to an elder. What is spoken and what is understood can sometimes be two different things.)

My first response was the scripture "Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ." Ephesians 4:15. In looking at this verse in context, I do not see any place where it says "except the elders or except the pastors or the authority".  verse 4 says "there is one body and one Spirit"....vs 6 "who is over all and through all and in all."  We are to speak truth to all our brothers and sisters - no matter their position in the body. We are one body, being prepared to meet our bridegroom. We have all sinned and come short of the glory of God and therefore all are in need of the ministry of the body. 

Galatians 6:1 says: "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness." Again, I do not see in context an admonition to NOT speak to a pastor or teacher.

1 Timothy admonishes us: Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. We are told how to address the "authority", but I cannot find any scriptures that tells us no matter how wrong the leadership may be, I am out of order by bringing truth to a brother. But the fact that we are instructed HOW to bring truth to an elder lets me know there is a time for doing so. Are we to run to the pastor every time we don't agree with something he is teaching? Or we don't like the new requirement to turn out the lights when we leave the bathroom? Of course not. But Star Scott is stating if you have a differing opinion or disagreement about a teaching, you have a heart issue if you approach them.

And a further thought - Star Scott says:  "If {you are} right and defy the authority..."  Suppose the authority is telling me to lie on my income tax? We know without a doubt that this would be wrong. Would I be defying God if I refuse to obey the elder telling me to lie? And try to tell him that it would be sin for me to lie on my income tax and sin for him to tell me to do so? Does Star Scott really believe an elder who is "wrong" gets a free pass just because his is in a position of authority? And we should obey just because he is our elder?

Suppose the authority is telling the congregation we must now attend church every Monday morning for prayer. Am I out of order if I go to an elder and express my disagreement with missing family prayer for corporate prayer? Am I automatically defying authority?  

So now my question to members of Calvary Temple - why would your pastor admonish you with the above statement? Why would he say that speaking the truth to an elder is out of order? Could it be that he wants you to stop hearing from the Holy Spirit concerning teachings coming from the pulpit? (in other words, stop being like the Bereans). Is he trying to gain compliance from the congregation?  "just do what you are told and shut up". Since when are we to disregard the still small Voice within us?

One final note: I find it interesting that Star Scott's comment equates being right with defiance. Just because you are right or have a different opinion and desire to speak truth to an elder does not meant you are DEFIANT. Of course, no one wants to be seen as defiant so the threat of being seen in such a light takes away our desire to even know the truth much less speak it.  

A Silent Church

        Throughout the years I attended Calvary Temple there have been accusations and rumors of sexual abuse, especially child abuse. One major incident has been substantiated by copies of a report to the police, confirmation from a family member, and admission by the perpetrator. Unfortunately, the victims did not pursue the matter any further, and subsequently there has been a very long cover-up. In addition, other alleged incidents of sexual abuse have been hidden. The congregation may or may not know of these incidents but there were unsuccessful attempts by the victims to be heard concerning their abuse. In addition to sexual abuse there are reports of extreme corporal punishment (that leaves severe bruising and emotional distress beyond the needed "correction"). The perpetrators were able to "shut down" the investigations. As a result, young children have been pushed aside and unheard, allowing emotional, physical, psychological and spiritual harm that will affect them for the rest of their lives.  And we will be held responsible if we do not speak out against these evils.
       
The following is a link to an article by Boz Tchividjian addressing this problem.

http://boz.religionnews.com/2014/02/14/silence-abandonment-hurting-souls/


To the members of Calvary Temple:  As long as you continue to give of your time, finances, energies and attendance, you are supporting the wrongs that have occurred and continue to occur at Calvary Temple. 

If you once attended Calvary Temple and have left: you have an obligation to speak against the sins that have occurred and continue to occur at Calvary Temple. 

And to those in leadership that have left Calvary Temple (pastors, deacons, & captains):  you have the highest responsibility to speak against the evil deeds you not only knew of and have since learned of, but may have participated in.  


But everything exposed by the light becomes visible-and everything that is illuminated becomes a light.  Ephesians 5:13

From Matthew Henry Commentary on Ephesians 5:13 Filthy lusts must be rooted out. These sins must be dreaded and detested. Here are not only cautions against gross acts of sin, but against what some may make light of. But these things are so far from being profitable. that they pollute and poison the hearers....Dare we make light of that which brings down the wrath of God?...There are many ways of abetting, or taking part in the sins of others; by commendation, counsel, consent, or concealment. And if we share with others in their sins, we must expect to share in their plagues. If we do not reprove the sins of others, we have fellowship with them. 

Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter.  Isaiah 5:20

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:21

We have been silent too long.  Do not allow fear, apathy, or a desire "to just move on" keep you from speaking out.

Red Flags

Members of my family and I attended Calvary Temple for many years. During that time the Holy Spirit brought to our attention many things that were troubling. They were either scriptures that were misused or misapplied or events that were disturbing. Unfortunately, we often overlooked them. In retrospect, I see the great sin in turning away from the warning of the Holy Spirit. We allowed our admiration for Star Scott to override the still small voice of the Holy Spirit. Our prayer is that current members of Calvary Temple would not ignore these red flags.

I was recently reminded of Star Scott once saying: "The Bible I read says that {your sin} is cast into the sea of God's forgetfulness, amen?" (There is Yet One Man Pt 12 December 9, 2012). In reality, the scripture he was referring to do says something quite different. It actually says You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea. I was struck by how forcefully he mis-quoted a scripture and pulled the congregation into agreement by saying "amen?" and waiting for the "amen!" response.

This should have been a  concern to me, but I ignored the red flag. I began to think of other red flags that I or my family had allowed to go by without challenge. Many of the following can be found in other groups when studying abusive churches and cults but the following list should especially be taken note of as they are particular to Calvary Temple.

• families or marriages breaking up when one member stops attending Calvary Temple 
• misquoting and twisting scripture to say something other than its actual meaning (as in the above example or the now infamous "high priest" being required to marry a virgin)
• encouragement to read only those books in the church bookstore  (that have been pre-approved by leadership)
• being encouraged to follow Star Scott and leadership rather than the Holy Spirit (because they hear from God more than us)
• bible studies or book clubs requiring approval by leadership
• discouragement of marriage counseling or marriage-related events (such as cruises) outside of Calvary Temple
• complete lack of financial transparency or accountability
• marriages taking place within a few short weeks without the time of getting to know each other
• directing children to find other families to live with in the event parents stop attending CT
• separation from and even isolation from natural family
• continual criticism of other churches and pastors
• maligning of character from the pulpit (especially of those who have stopped attending CT)
• the respect of persons, those in the "inner circle"
• unwritten rules - we all knew what we could say or ask and what we couldn't
• constant adulation of Star Scott ("propping him up")
• fear of losing salvation if you leave CT
• warnings of bad things happening if you leave CT
• elitism (see previous post) 
• encouraging members to recruit from other churches
• lack of accountability for the leaders
• being told we might have to move to the property
• being told we might have to bring our resources to the feet of the apostles
• the cutting off from the Assemblies of God
• insults (and false witness) directed at former members 
• father's authority in home being weakened and even removed (I remember  Star Scott telling fathers that their only job is to enforce what is being said from the pulpit)
• unscriptural marking
• our children hearing intimate details of Star Scott's sex life
• telling kids to miss college exams when young adult retreat was rescheduled to another weekend
• daily bible reading being controlled along with assigned prayer lists rather than allowing the Holy Spirit to direct reading and prayer
• being told that we should be studying only what Star Scott is teaching during our own study time
• statements such as "...we can't go into the details but...."  or "I can't remember exactly but...." and saying enough that everyone in the congregation knew exactly who was being talked about 
• statements such as "that's the kind of woman I would like to punch in the face", or they are "daughters of satan"
• extreme corporal punishment - sometimes leaving severe bruising and causing parents and teachers to be very concerned
• a wife being put into a hotel room for 91 days to "break" her
• rumors of child abuse, sexual abuse, physical abuse and emotional abuse
• rumors of the above being covered up
• being told God had placed us here and therefore could not accept a job transfer
• being told we could not date someone we met somewhere other than inside Calvary Temple
• the exodus of many long-time members (even those in leadership) 
• being told to avoid or not talk to those who have left ("we have it under control")  ("if we can't convince them to do the right thing, why do you think you can?")
• learning that our pastor had covered his sin and then misrepresented the nature of the sin when it was revealed

I have not elaborated on these Red Flags; those of us that attended or currently attend Calvary Temple are familiar with these incidents and characteristics. Calvary Temple is a dangerous place; on the surface it is biblical but underneath it is depraved and abhorrent. When your eyes are opened to the control and abuse, you find yourself sickened that you never saw it before and thankful that you see it now.

Elitism

The following is adapted from a post on the website Pure Provender:

One common sign of an abusive church is a sense of elitism. Just what IS elitism? It's a feeling that your group is special, better, far superior than other churches or groups. Most churches feel that they are on the right path, that their particular doctrines are right. That's not elitism.  Elitism goes beyond just thinking that your doctrines or practices are correct. It's a hyperactive puffing up about it. Your group thinks not only that it is on the right path, but that almost no one else is.

There are a couple of ways elitism is expressed. One is that the leaders come right out and say it. The pastor or leaders might preach that the group has a special call or a unique mission. This will be a repeated theme in abusive churches. It tends to isolate. If you are so special, God's own favorite children, why would you even want to hang out with the "unspecial"?

It also takes subtler forms. The pastor might not focus much on your special calling. He might instead spend time cutting down other groups, focusing on their perceived weaknesses and problems. If he does this enough, you get the idea. Church X doesn't really stress scripture (unspoken lesson: WE DO!); Church Y doesn't really preach salvation (unspoken lesson: WE REALLY CARE); Church Z doesn't live out the gospel (unspoken lesson: WE LIVE THE GOSPEL).

What elitism does is unify church members. They get the message. THEY don't want to be like the worldly groups out there that don't care about lost souls or the poor or missions or the scripture. They want to make sure they are among the chosen few. To do this, they will hunker down, they will keep to the group, they will make sure the leadership knows they are loyal and true and not heathen like those other groups outside.

When things get messy and they are tempted to leave, elitism is a powerful handcuff. Members have spent so much time looking down on other groups and playing up their own gifts that to leave means they have to reverse their thinking, and that's very hard to do. Suddenly, they are thinking about no longer being part of God's special group, and also about joining up with groups they - along with the church leadership - have looked down on for so long. That's a hard reversal to stomach.

Besides bragging about gifts and callings, and besides castigating other "inferior" churches, another sign of elitism is when the pastor or leaders won't meet with other community pastors. They will not join ministerial alliances or Christian groups in a community. They are too good for those lukewarm Christians. They are far above them and will not deign to rub shoulders with them. While many elitist pastors do meet with such groups either just for show or because it lends credibility to the group, the very hard core elitists will not. If your pastor won't meet with other pastors unless they are of the same denomination, it is a big, bright, red flag that he is an elitist and possibly abusive.

Elitism can be blatant or subtle, but it's a common trait of abusive churches.

If you find yourself recognizing any of the above in your own church, Calvary Temple or any other, please do more research on abusive and authoritarian churches.  There is a very dangerous increase in controlling and cultish churches that is doing great harm to the Body of Christ and the cause of Jesus Christ. These churches have  the appearance of sound biblical doctrine but the fruit of their ministries is corrupt.  

A comment on Against Calvary Temple

A recent post on Against Calvary Temple has brought a lot of reaction in the form of reader comments.  One comment in particular was very thought provoking.  I am reposting it here with the permission of the writer.


September 18, 2014 at 11:13 pm

TimeToSpeakOut says:

A recent post on Tactics of Calvary Temple: “Pastor says that we are under attack. The warfare is from rebels…”.  

Reading that quote, you scratch your head and wonder how someone with his incredible hidden past can say that. You say to yourself; “It does not make sense. How can he say that and sleep at night. There is no logic to that statement”.

There actually is logic to the above quote. This is how you hide your sin, control people and get their money. You see the same methods in politics and other movements.

If Star Scott can build a following by criticizing and lying about other people and churches, can we not point out truth and bring his “sins to the light” (his phrase)? Are we rebels because we wish to free families and friends who are unaware of the magnitude of his sin and how much he lied to keep it hidden?

We are not attacking the people of CT. Myself and others are simply communicating the mountains of evidence that show how much he has lied to us. The facts show fruit of him lying from the very beginning and continuing to lie all these years to the present day. The facts are not attacking him but revealing what he has done. They are revealing incredibly bad fruit. And the longevity of these horrible sins reveals who Starr Scott is. We are just the messenger showing people what he has done and how he has done it. We are revealing the methods he uses that are necessary to hide his sin while achieving money and power.

I believe Starr Scott is trying to turn our effort to communicate facts into an attack on an entire congregation. This causes anger to rise up in them further affecting their ability to weigh those facts and make thoughtful and thorough conclusions. He is simply manufacturing a different recipe of “Kool-Aid” designed to shut your brain down whenever these topics are discussed.

I recently received the cover page of a Police Report given by the Herndon Police to someone who left CT. The names were redacted because the two victims were under age.

• Crime: Sex Offenses-Forcible Sodomy 11b
• Date: 1973
• Address: 900 Crestview Dr, Herndon Virginia. Site of the First Assembly of God Church in Herndon in 1973.
• Date Reported: 3/19/2008

This event is what Star Scott II spoke of in his email revealing his father’s sin. It is the event that occurred in Virginia when at least one of the young girls from California visited. Could this be what he was speaking of when he said “It was adultery. It happened once. It was a long time ago. It was in a different church. It was dealt with.”? He has told us the best way to lie is to tell half the truth.

The method is a not so clever way to admit a little while hiding the prior three years. Those who trusted him and did not read the email were tricked into believing a lie. It still amazes me to know many deacons and congregants knew what he was doing and stayed silent.

The Date Reported is three weeks before Starr II sent his email.

Young adults and older adults, the facts are overwhelming. It is time to examine and understand what they have done and are still doing. Look around you. Do not be deceived by perceived happy faces. I know you are hurting and afraid. Do not be afraid. Be honest to your heart and follow the Lord. Do you really believe God would call thousands of people to be controlled by someone who has done these horrible things and other sins you do not yet know about? Do you really believe the stories of molestations by other leaders were made up because Star Scott makes a “stand for the word”? There is so much you do not yet know about.

Seek God with an honest heart open to being wrong. He will show you what they have done. You will be amazed at how wonderful life in Christ outside of Calvary Temple is. You will be amazed as God restores your families and brings true peace to your heart.

You Can't Have it Both Ways

One of the false doctrines promoted by the leadership of Calvary Temple is that in order to leave you must first get their permission to do so. Leaving by your own choice without the "blessing" of Star Scott  has resulted in much heartache. The "rebellious" ones have been labeled everything from a defector to out of order. They have lost families and friends. Calvary Temple executes a very harsh sentence to those that leave their current church to go to another church. 

Question:  If it is a biblical requirement to ask permission to leave your church, why is Star Scott now suggesting that the members of CT should actively recruit those in another church and encourage them to defect and come to Calvary Temple? CT members are advised to have a conversation with someone, determine if they are being fed properly, decide if they are dying where they are, and tell them to leave their church and come to CT where they can be "fed and led." Now perhaps I'm not the sharpest knife in the drawer but this seems to be hypocritical. You just can't have it both ways.

However, if you believe it's ok to proselytize people from their own churches, you might want to prepare yourself.  Scott has mentioned that members of McLean Bible Church could benefit from members of Calvary Temple "rolling in there" and "preaching the word". He suggests that it is not readily evident that they are Christians. But first you might want to listen to some of the teachings posted on the McLean Bible website. (or attend a few services). You might want to listen to the teachings of the many other local churches such as Cornerstone Chapel or  Capital Church. Perhaps you should attend a worship service and teaching at  Community Church in Ashburn,  Harvest Chapel in Reston, or Grace Covenant Church in Chantilly. Maybe attend one of the many small groups in the Washington DC area that welcome visitors. You will need to listen to or attend services of many churches to be sure you are not recruiting someone from a solid, bible believing church.  

 I suggest this because you will be encouraging people to commit the "sin"(according to the standard of Calvary Temple) of defecting from their church and rebelling against their "designated authority". As you believe from the many years of Star Scott's teaching, leaving your church is a grave sin. It would be beneficial to you to be very, very careful and very prepared before causing a member of another church to "sin".  

Do you want to make the judgment that determines if God is ministering to this person through their church? It seems the conversation of "what are you hearing from God among the young adults?" and the answer "nothing" may not be the whole story. I would be very careful before I draw the conclusion from such a conversation that a person is "dying" and needs to come to CT to "live". 

According to Star Scott it is ok for you to encourage others to commit the "sin" of leaving their church but it not ok for a Calvary Temple member to leave and attend another church. Again, you can't have it both ways. Either it is wrong to leave your church without the pastor's permission, or it is up to the individual to hear from God and go where He leads. But it's not ok to say you cannot leave Calvary Temple without Scott's permission but you can convince others to leave their churches without their pastor's permission.

The bottom line:  Mr. Scott does not believe God is able to raise up churches that minister the word of God and bring life to those who attend and he does not believe that God Himself can place people where He wills.  

For by the grace given to me I say to every one of you not to think more highly of yourself than you ought to think, but to think with sober discernment, as God has distributed to each of you a measure of faith. 4 For just as in one body we have many members, and not all the members serve the same function, 5 so we who are many are one body in Christ, and individually we are members who belong to one another. 6 And we have different gifts according to the grace given to us.   Romans 12 3-6

For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.  Romans 8:14

This is what the Lord says-your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.  Isaiah 48:17

Deceived

I think one of the hardest things is to acknowledge that we have been deceived. We are by and large, people of the Word. We love God, and desire to please him. It is unnerving to think we were wrong in trusting Starr Scott and the leaders of Calvary Temple.

For myself, peace came when I read the verse about perilous times that would come. Scriptures tells us that unless those days were shortened even the very elect would be deceived. No doubt we are in those days, and when God revealed the lies and deception in Calvary Temple, I could either close my eyes and call evil good, or I could acknowledge the truth and say I had trusted a bad man, who pretended to be good. And he is very good at pretending. And I was the epitome of blind loyalty.  God never gives up on warning us though, and in His love and mercy, He rescues His sheep when caught in snares of the devil.

There is a false sense of calm promoted by many who've left Calvary Temple in the past. That "God will deal with it, just forget the bad and move on with your life" mentality, which is part of the reason the church is still destroying lives. The sheer complexity of the deception in a relatively small church, has provoked many to exhaustion, if not downright apathy.

But if we are children of God and we are not standing for the Truth in every area of our lives, including our association with Calvary Temple of Sterling, Virginia....then I guess we have become a light with a basket covering us, or salt that has lost its savour.  To borrow a quote from Ann Coulter "...today's Christians are aces at sacrifice, great at serving others, but strangely timid for those who have been given eternal life."  We need to be honest with ourselves first, and then with others.  And then take the basket off our light, and burn brightly for Jesus' sake.  It was the Pharisees who hated Jesus, the Romans didn't give a rip either way...and Jesus told us, if they hated him, they would also hate us.  So what if Star Scott hates us for speaking the truth about his church.  We ought to please God and not men.

Don't Shoot the Messenger

Not forsaking the assembling....

Hebrews 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together; as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

Those of us who have attended Calvary Temple have heard this scripture spoken from the pulpit many, many times. It is spoken to ensure that we attend church every time the doors are opened. As God's word to us it is to be taken seriously. However, we should understand exactly what it means in light of scripture, not in light of Calvary Temple's traditions.

"wherever two or three are gathered, there am I among them." Matt 18:20.

For those of us who have attended Calvary Temple, we may believe attending church means meeting on Sunday morning, Sunday evening, and Wednesday night, along with Friday night, Tuesday & Thursday prayer night. However, scripture does not speak of required days for "church". Calvary Temple leadership often comments that many churches have dropped Sunday night or Wednesday night services. They shake their heads in sadness and condemnation that churches have "backslidden" and become weak and compromised. It is possible to believe that if one leaves Calvary Temple and attends a church that does not meet on Sunday night, you are attending an inferior church. We can begin to believe we are not doing well spiritually or we are not even saved. However, believing this means Calvary Temple has set the standard for what it means to attend church. Unless you attend other churches, you may not be aware of how much "assembling" actually goes on. And probably the pastors of Calvary Temple don't know either.

In reality, many churches in our area are very active, but it is not left to the pastor to head up each meeting. One of the very freeing things about leaving Calvary Temple is we must begin to dig our own well. The Holy Spirit will lead us. We must decide to take advantage of fellowship with other believers. It may not be required but we are responsible to "not forsake the assembling". Insisting on a prescribed number of meetings on prescribed days keeps people dependent on leadership and living a legalistic life. But the role of five fold ministry is to prepare people to do the work of the ministry - freely and willingly, not under constraint. Each believer becomes more dependent on God and the leading of the Holy Spirit rather than dependent on a pastor and a list of requirements.

"For freedom did Christ set us free: stand fast therefore, and be not entangled again in a yoke of bondage."  Galatians 5:1

Why does Calvary Temple frequently speak of other churches? I believe it causes people to be fearful and critical of other churches that don't look just like Calvary Temple. It may cause people to think less of other churches just because they do not have a Sunday or Wednesday night service. Man - made traditions are just that - MAN made. God has given us the guidelines but leaves much room for variety. Different churches have different emphases, and each individual must be led by the Holy Spirit to find their place in the local church.

For those who may have recently left Calvary Temple or are thinking of leaving, please do not be afraid to search for a church that will meet your and your family's needs. It doesn't have to look like Calvary Temple. 

One person considers one day to be above another day.  Someone else considers every day to be the same.  Each one must be fully convinced in his own mind.  Romans 14:5

Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day.  Colossians 2:16 

A letter from one who understands...

Dear hurt ones,

I ache for you, and have also experienced this awful pain. The confusion is difficult to bear. You have had the waters of truth muddled, been forced to drink the undrinkable and now alone, sick and weak you wonder who can you trust. Only Jesus will not fail you.

If you are able, here are some links to save on your computer. They have helped me, and very little helped in the beginning. At first only the prayers of kind believers and the gospels on audio links eased my heartache. Then the Psalms, months later. Some of the teachings by Joe Focht of ccphilly.com, the voice of the martyrs newsletter, and godsaidmansaid.com.  They are safe and scriptural...still, thank The Lord.  But don't fret if you are unable to do much, wounds heal -  some slow, some fast. But always the scars are there to remind us of our torture and our healing. God comforts the cast down ones. He will never leave you or forsake you.

Also be sure of this, that the destruction of your life by the leaders of Calvary Temple is not of God-but is the work of the devil, who comes to steal, kill, and destroy. Forgive them, though, so your Heavenly Father will forgive you if you have committed any sins. And if you have sinned, right now ask Jesus to forgive you and give you the grace to walk this out.  Only He can forgive and enable us to live right, and He will as soon as we ask him.

If you are no longer sure of your salvation, (the spirit of God bears witness with our spirits that we are the sons of God), then today is the day of salvation, Jesus died on the cross to free you from sin and death, ask Him to save you now and you will become His child right away, because He says that all who come to Him, He will in no wise cast out.

I am praying for you, many others also. Be encouraged that you are not alone, we stand with you, to see your family restored to you, serving Jesus with joy, and assured of the one, true gospel of Jesus Christ.

Five Warning Signs

When someone leaves Calvary Temple, they can feel confused and even frightened, wondering if they did the right thing and if they really had good reason to leave. The following article may give you the tools to judge Calvary Temple in light of what other pastors and theologians consider false teaching and abusive tactics. Please take note that these characteristics of an abusive church are not speaking of just obvious cults. These are referring to mainstream Christian churches that have drifted into extreme authoritarian groups. These churches still have the appearance of solid Christian theology but with a shift away from dependence on God to dependence on the pastor and leadership. 

The following is excerpted from www.spiritwatch.org

How to Spot Spiritual Abuse by Rafael Martinez, Director, Spiritwatch Ministries

The Five Warning Signs Of Religious Abuse

1) Unchecked Authoritarian Leadership

The first danger sign of a possibly unsound church, Enroth explains, (Ron Enroth, Churches That Abuse) can be seen through a high-handed exhibition of its leadership's authority, which often appears unnervingly legitimate. "Spiritual abuse can take place in the context of doctrinally sound, Bible preaching, fundamental, conservative Christianity. All that is needed for abuse is a pastor accountable to no one and therefore beyond confrontation. Authoritarian leaders are ecclesiastical loners. That is, they do not function well or willingly in the context of systematic checks or balances. They are fiercely independent and refuse to be part of a structure of accountability. To put it crudely, they operate a one-man (or one-woman) spiritual show. And God help the person who gets in the way or makes waves."

He continues: "Yes, sometimes they will point to a board of elders or its equivalent, but more likely than not, this turns out to be a faithful inner circle of clones that implicitly accepts all that the leader sets forth.  Abusive pastors often come from troubled backgrounds and are very insecure persons despite the 'take charge' image they may project. They are power hungry people who crave visibility.  Leaders who inflict spiritual violence often hide behind the smoke screen of authority to gain power."  (pp. 203, 217, 219 of Churches That Abuse). It is important to understand that religiously abusive church leadership is most visible when it demands public and private attention to be given to the authority and control over the flock by the pastor. Often, in aberrant churches, this is not an easy thing to discern, and yet frequently it is one of the danger signs that may be easily overlooked. Such leaders will seem too quick to chastise members, often in harsh forums of public rebuke.

2) Imbalanced Congregational Life

Secondly, the congregation's social characteristics provide danger signals as well. Enroth points out that "membership of authoritarian churches is frequently comprised of young, spiritually immature Christians. This kind of church is successful because it is meeting basic human needs - the need to belong, the need to be affirmed, to be accepted and to be part of a family. It is not unusual for the leaders to assume the role of surrogate parents, especially for those young adults who come from dysfunctional family backgrounds" (p. 216). It is just this sort of yearning need and sincere zeal that the aberrant church pastor uses to exploit his flock through manipulative control. Mr. Enroth explains that abusive church leaders "foster an unhealthy form of dependency, spiritually and otherwise, by focusing on themes of submission and obedience to those in authority. They create the impression that people just aren't going to find their way through life's maze without a lot of firm directives from those at the top" (p. 217).

3)  Conscious Threats Of Discipline And Disfellowshipping

"Another sign of impending trouble in a church is an obsession with discipline and excommunication. Beware of churches that warn of certain doom if you leave their 'covering,' or if you 'break covenant.' Once banished from [or having left] the group, little compassion is shown the wayward one." Again and again, it has been observed that former members of aberrant churches, when contemplating leaving the group, were issued dire warnings that they were backsliding, compromising and facing judgment from God. Church members who are seen as stepping out of line will find themselves being shunned or criticized by the so-called "true believers" in public, and will usually face much harsher treatment in the larger abusive church congregation. Demeaning public rebuke, even ridicule from the pulpit is one means of religious abuse disguised as "discipline."

4) Deliberate Disruption Of Personal Relationships

A fourth sign of aberrance in a church is when the church encourages complete isolation or strong distancing of it's membership from family and friends not involved in the group. Enroth observes that even family relationships within the group become severely disrupted and strained, since the demands for attention to be given to the "spiritual family" become all important. Parental and marital bonds may be strained or shattered over the need for individual family members to more fully identify  with the church group, and non-member relations outside of the group are often stunned at how cold and distant their once loving family members became when they "got religious." The abusive church's "spiritual family" then appear to become the recipients of the warm family ties and affections that group members have withdrawn from their own family.

This is one of the most heartbreaking and shattering consequences of religious abuse dispensed by aberrant churches. We know of many, many people who have suffered unspeakably agonizing losses of their marriages, children and parents at the behest of abusive group leaders who deemed their members' relationships with them far too spiritually polluting, smothering and destructive. A marriage of twenty years was abruptly ended by a divorce initiated by the pressures placed upon the couple by an abusive church through its leadership, simply because the husband left the Polk County "church" where both he and his wife were members. Such unbelievable occurrences are all too frequent and too real to ignore.

5) Withdrawal And Isolation From The "Outside"

Enroth goes on to say that another sign of abusive behavior in a church is it's tendency towards isolation from other churches. There is a conscious effort to limit input and contact with thoughts and ideas from outside the church's own circle. This is what is known as "information control" and is a crucial element of what is known as mind control. "Beware of the church, " he writes, "where outside speakers are consistently denied access to the pulpit, and where other Christian churches are regularly denounced, belittled or ridiculed."

It is unfortunate that Calvary Temple clearly displays all of these characteristics.  When a member of Calvary Temple identifies such signs they must realize that scripture dictates that they must leave. Often we may be reluctant to leave, instead "letting God handle it". But continuing to attend, being involved in, and tithing to Calvary Temple is supporting it and approving of it.  

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For the Visitor to Calvary Temple

I am writing this to the potential visitor of Calvary Temple with the hope that you will never need  the rest of this website. Leaving Calvary Temple is the most difficult thing many people will ever do and the pain of losing family and friends will last a lifetime. I hope you will be spared that experience.  

I don't know what brought you to visit Calvary Temple. Perhaps it was one of the car shows, movie nights, special events, or someone you work with. Maybe you have been struggling with personal problems - family, financial, health, job, or other difficulties. Perhaps you are seeking a relationship with God and believe a church is a good place to start your search. I want to assure you that God is the answer to the needs in your life. He is the only way to know truth, love and salvation. He is the only way to have peace. The Bible says "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."  (John 3:16). God loves you and has a plan for your life.  

Choosing Jesus to be the Lord of your life causes you to desire to spend time with other believers. Finding a church to attend is a good thing. You will have others to encourage you in your faith and minister to your needs. You will have an opportunity to care for others and tell others about your faith. For that reason, I am writing to you, a visitor of Calvary Temple. Please don't choose Calvary Temple for your church. There are other churches in the area that would love to have you attend and would love to help you on your spiritual journey. But Calvary Temple is not the right choice.

When you first visit Calvary Temple, you will be impressed with the loving reception you experience and the love that people appear to have for one another. In many ways, it is sincere. But that sincerity has a limitation. If you ever decide to leave Calvary Temple, for ANY reason, you will have a very different experience. If you leave without the approval of the leadership, you will be considered "out of order". The pastor, Star Scott, has said many times that you MUST have his permission to leave. Going to another Calvary Temple satellite church to minister is the only valid reason to leave. There are no other valid reasons. (not a marriage, job transfer or promotion, retirement, sickness, caring for a family member in another area, desire to minister in another church, or any other reason you can think of.) If you leave without permission, you will  be  cut off from all your friends at Calvary Temple. From the pulpit, the pastor may denigrate and vilify you. In doing so, he effectively discourages further congregational contact with you. If you  have children or other family, you will be cut off from them. The beautiful image of Calvary Temple is now seen as something else. And that something else can destroy your life.  

Dozens of families have experienced exactly this situation. There are parents who have not seen their children in 5, 10, 15 or more years. Some have never been allowed to meet their grandchildren. Men have divorced their wives because she may want to attend another church. (and vice-versa). Friends have been cut off from life-long friendships. Good people have had their reputations destroyed by the leadership of Calvary Temple so that members will not speak with them after they leave.  

There are additional reasons you should avoid Calvary Temple. If you are a member and single, you may only marry someone that also attends Calvary Temple. Dating is not allowed, you get to know someone in church events only. You will be required to tithe and give offerings and will be monitored to be sure you do. The head pastor manages Calvary Temple without any oversight or accountability. (Calvary has been investigated for tax fraud). You will be required to attend church on Sunday morning, Sunday evening, Wednesday evening, as well as prayer meetings on Tuesday and Thursday night. You must attend "Family" night on Fridays along with a monthly home group meeting. You must participate in the many outreaches to the community. Men will be required to attend a monthly breakfast. There are also work days, special prayer days, volunteering at the church school, and numerous other activities. You will have little time to spend with your nuclear family. You are encouraged to spend holidays and vacations with your "family" at Calvary Temple rather than your natural family. Your children will be encouraged to find another family in the church to live with in the event you decide to leave Calvary.

The pastor boasts about Calvary Temple being the best church, and disparages other local churches and pastors. And yet two pastors and several deacons as well as dozens of laypersons have left Calvary Temple in recent years due to disagreement with the doctrine and practices of Calvary Temple. (Many years ago the church numbered in the thousands and now numbers around 300.) 

I am deeply saddened to write these things to people who may be on a search for God. It is the greatest joy in life to discover that God Himself loves you and wants to have a relationship with you. But I believe Calvary Temple is not a safe place to go. Many people have experienced the heartaches listed above and would join me in encouraging you to find another church to attend.  

(update: June 2016) since approximately March 2015, Calvary Temple has been investigated by the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office as well as the Virginia State Police for child sexual and physical abuse.  The investigation is ongoing. In addition, you should know that Calvary Temple has had and/or currently has members that are on the national child sexual abuse list. 


Taste and See that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him.
Psalm 34:8

Therefore He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them.  Hebrews 7:25

That if you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and shall believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved.  Romans 10:9

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away, behold, all things are become new.  2 Corinthians 5:17

For by grace are you saved through faith, and not of yourselves: it is the gift of God-not by works, lest any man should boast.  Ephesians 2:8-9

Leaving Calvary Temple

Most members find it very difficult to leave Calvary Temple. Leaving Calvary Temple has been long seen as not just a departure from a church building but rather a departure from the body of Christ and  God Himself. In addition to "leaving God", you will be leaving family and friends forever. You will be shunned. If you dare to speak out, you will be "marked" and have your reputation maligned from the pulpit. Leaving Calvary Temple can be very painful.

Recently a pastor specializing in abusive and authoritarian churches noted that Calvary Temple is one of the worst in terms of  control that he has ever seen.  He believes the level of "pastor worship", twisting of scriptures, information control, the attack on people's reputations, and especially the destruction of marriages and families is alarming. Local pastors have been struggling for many years as to how to best help the people leaving Calvary and how to reach the people still within the church.  One local pastor remarked that many leaving Calvary Temple struggle greatly with legalism and their assurance of salvation. Another local pastor has spent  hours praying for the people within Calvary Temple and the leadership that is misguiding them. Other pastors have tried to have meaningful conversations with the leadership of Calvary but say "it is impossible to get to them..they won't talk with other pastors."

Controlling churches make it impossible to leave on good terms. When a member leaves they are usually categorized as rebellious. There is never an acceptable reason for leaving the church. It has been said by the pastor of Calvary that NO ONE has ever left for doctrinal issues. And yet many say that is EXACTLY why they left. Instead, the leadership may state that the leaving members were approached with a correction of some sort and were offended by the word of God or that they have backslidden. Their character will be denigrated. If the leaving member attempts to explain why they are leaving or tries to defend themselves, they will be labeled as "reaching in" and "bitter".

When members run into those who have left, there is much confusion as to how to treat them. They will be unsure who to avoid, who to treat as "marked", and who they might talk to. It becomes easier to shun everyone they run into. A few will speak to the "defector", usually to admonish them to repent and return to Calvary Temple. You will be treated as a backslidden Christian or even an enemy.

The most damaging results of leaving Calvary Temple are the loss of spouses, children, grandchildren, parents and other family members, along with friendships of long standing. In addition to this will come the difficulty of adjusting to life "outside". Life will change dramatically. Some changes will be easy to adjust to but patterns of legalistic thought will take much longer to change. It will require many hours of prayer and studying the scriptures to undo the hold of legalism.

This blog will explore life outside of Calvary Temple and the errors within. I hope to include many resources for those who have left CT. Leaving may be difficult but there is great joy under the leading and guiding of the Holy Spirit.

Before I end this post, I want to encourage any one reading this to pray for our brothers and sisters that are connected in any way to Calvary Temple, including Pastor Scott and the leadership. Pray for the ministry. Pray for the families that have not seen loved ones for months and years. And pray for a discerning heart - to know the word of God and to love and honor God above all else.

The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. Proverbs 18:10

I shall hear a word behind me, saying, "This is the way, walk in it," whenever I turn to the right or the left.  Isaiah 30:21

The Spirit of truth has come and He is guiding me into all truth.  He will tell me things to come. John 16:13