Podcast Summary: Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey – Ep 1166 | Escaping the Cult with No Name | Guest: Elizabeth Coleman

Release Date: April 3, 2025 Host: Allie Beth Stuckey Guest: Elizabeth Coleman Network: Blaze Podcast Network

Introduction

In Episode 1166 of "Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey," host Allie Beth Stuckey engages in a profound conversation with Elizabeth Coleman, a courageous woman who left a highly restrictive secret religious group in Australia over three decades ago. Elizabeth's testimony sheds light on the inner workings of the cult, its origins, beliefs, and the harrowing journey of escaping its grasp.

Origins of the Two by Twos

Elizabeth Coleman begins by introducing herself and her background within the cult, which she and others have come to refer to as the "two by twos." This name stems from their ministry practice of sending out ministers in pairs, akin to the methods of the Jehovah's Witnesses or Mormons, albeit more rigorously.

Elizabeth Coleman [01:16]:

"They officially have never given themselves a name because they believe they are the only way they don't need a name. We call them the two by twos because of the way their ministry operates—going out in pairs."

The cult traces its roots to the late 1800s, founded by William Irvine, a Scotsman who diverged from the Faith Mission in Ireland. Dissatisfied with existing churches, Irvine proclaimed himself as God's chosen one to restore true ministry, emphasizing faith over material possessions and establishing a rigid, high-control environment.

Elizabeth Coleman [03:56]:

"William Irvine developed a real hatred of clergy in the established church and started to really badmouth them. He believed he was the chosen one to restore the true way on earth."

Cult Practices and Doctrines

The two by twos maintain a strict, insular lifestyle, eschewing any form of church buildings in favor of meeting in private homes. Members are conditioned to view themselves as the sole true followers of Jesus, rejecting other Christian denominations as "false churches."

Elizabeth Coleman [10:56]:

"They don't believe in salvation by grace. They preach a false gospel where Jesus is merely an example, not God. Followers must obey the workers, who act as gatekeepers between them and God."

Members adhere to stringent rules: women forgo haircuts, makeup, jewelry, and worldly activities like sports or recorded music. The group fosters an "us versus them" mentality, discouraging interactions with outsiders and labeling other Christians as deceptive.

Leaving the Group

Elizabeth recounts her upbringing within the cult, highlighting the emotional and spiritual control exerted over members. Despite a relatively safe childhood devoid of physical abuse, the constant indoctrination led to a stifling environment where independent thought was suppressed.

Elizabeth Coleman [15:19]:

"It was privately a very rigidly controlled environment, emotionally and spiritually binding us with an 'us and them' mentality."

Her journey to faith transformation began during her time in college when she encountered evangelical sermons that contradicted the cult's teachings, particularly the significance of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. This revelation ignited a crisis of faith, culminating in her decision to leave the group at 19.

Elizabeth Coleman [34:07]:

"I realized I had to leave because my mind had been opened to too much. It felt like a massive spiritual battle."

Personal Transformation and Embracing Faith

After leaving the cult, Elizabeth faced immense emotional turmoil and isolation. Her struggle intensified until she met her future husband, David, whose guidance helped her understand the true gospel. This pivotal moment allowed her to embrace Christianity authentically, free from the cult's oppressive doctrines.

Elizabeth Coleman [50:27]:

"He explained the gospel using a simple analogy with a telephone directory, illustrating how Jesus took the punishment for our sins, allowing us to be seen as righteous before God."

Elizabeth's acceptance of the gospel marked a significant turning point, providing her with assurance and freeing her from the cult's performance-based salvation teachings.

Impact on Family

Elizabeth's departure had profound effects on her family. While not officially shunned, her parents reacted with distress and fear, leading to strained relationships. Over time, both her mother and father also converted to Christianity outside the cult, illustrating the ripple effect of Elizabeth's courageous decision to leave.

Elizabeth Coleman [57:01]:

"My mother was accused of giving pamphlets to new converts and was excommunicated. She later found faith in Christianity alongside me."

Her family's eventual exodus from the cult underscores the deep-rooted influence of their upbringing and the challenging process of breaking free from such a controlling environment.

Abuse Allegations and Later Revelations

In the latter part of the conversation, Elizabeth addresses serious abuse allegations within the two by twos. Initially sheltered from such knowledge, she later uncovered stories of child sexual abuse and misconduct by workers, which were systematically concealed by the group. Recent investigations, including a worldwide FBI probe, have exposed the extent of these abuses, leading to a surge of testimonies and a global reckoning.

Elizabeth Coleman [63:38]:

"Workers who abused have been moved across state lines and countries to reoffend. The group's structure, emphasizing unquestioned authority, has made it a breeding ground for abuse."

The revelation of these abuses has catalyzed a movement akin to #MeToo within the group, with survivors coming forward and holding perpetrators accountable. Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of speaking out and seeking justice, urging those affected to contact authorities.

Conclusion and Further Resources

Elizabeth Coleman concludes by sharing resources for those seeking to understand the group's history and escape from its influence. Her book, Culture Christ, is available on Amazon, alongside recommendations for other literature that documents the group's evolution and abuses.

Elizabeth Coleman [67:26]:

"My book, Culture Christ, is available on Amazon. Cherie’s book, Preserving the Truth, offers a comprehensive history of the group in a non-confrontational manner."

Elizabeth's testimony serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for individuals entangled in similar high-control groups, highlighting the resilience and strength required to reclaim one's faith and life.

Notable Quotes

• Elizabeth Coleman [01:16]:

  "We call them the two by twos because of the way their ministry operates—going out in pairs."

• Elizabeth Coleman [10:56]:

  "They don't believe in salvation by grace. They preach a false gospel where Jesus is merely an example, not God."

• Elizabeth Coleman [34:07]:

  "I realized I had to leave because my mind had been opened to too much. It felt like a massive spiritual battle."

• Elizabeth Coleman [50:27]:

  "He explained the gospel using a simple analogy with a telephone directory, illustrating how Jesus took the punishment for our sins, allowing us to be seen as righteous before God."

• Elizabeth Coleman [63:38]:

  "Workers who abused have been moved across state lines and countries to reoffend. The group's structure, emphasizing unquestioned authority, has made it a breeding ground for abuse."

Resources

• Elizabeth Coleman’s Book: Culture Christ
• Recommended Reading: Preserving the Truth by Cherie
• FBI Information: Individuals with information on abuse within the group are encouraged to contact the FBI.

Elizabeth Coleman's brave account provides invaluable insights into the mechanisms of high-control groups and underscores the importance of critical thinking and personal faith. Her journey from enslavement to spiritual freedom serves as an inspiring testament to the power of resilience and the pursuit of truth.