Sons of Patriarchy
Peter Bell
What happens when biblical patriarchy, christian nationalism, and a theology of authority and submission become the pillars of a movement? Scores of abuse stories in marriages, schools, churches, families, and more. Though these ideas have filtered throughout the United States for decades, they found a home in Moscow, Idaho, through the ministry and work of Doug Wilson. From there, they have influenced churches across the United States, and across the world. In this series, you'll hear from experts on all aspects of these movements, and the stories of abuse from those who survived. Some are Christian, some are not, but one thing they've got in common? They're finally speaking out. This is their story.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sons-of-patriarchy--6517628/support.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 29, 2025 • 52min
Rachael Denhollander on the LIES Churches Believe About Abuse
Rachael Denhollander, an attorney and abuse survivor, shares her expertise on how churches handle abuse allegations. She discusses the importance of trauma-informed responses and the misuse of biblical standards like the 'two or three witnesses' argument. Rachael emphasizes the need for independent investigations and outlines the limits of pastoral confidentiality. With a focus on empowering survivors, she debunks misconceptions about reporting and highlights the significance of ethical media representation.
Nov 27, 2025 • 1h 39min
A Minister Asks an 8 Year Old About Touching Herself
Chelsea Gondrez shares her harrowing story of sexual and spiritual abuse within conservative Reformed churches, detailing experiences from childhood questioning about her body to molestation at a church gathering. Alongside her parents, Elaine and Fred Hoffland, they reflect on their struggles against institutional silence and blame. An anonymous guest unveils the toxic culture at Christchurch, highlighting the manipulative teachings of Doug Wilson. This heartfelt conversation illuminates the oppressive dynamics faced by women and urges support for survivors.
Nov 24, 2025 • 1h 12min
Here's Why the CREC is a FALSE Denomination
In this engaging discussion, Jeff Moss, a former CREC minister with over a decade of insider experience, reveals intriguing insights into the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches. He unpacks the CREC's complex hybrid structure and discusses the influence of Doug Wilson on its identity and practices. Jeff also explores doctrinal freedoms, the contentious blend of confessionalism, and unique ordination requirements. Plus, the conversation touches on the CREC’s focus on masculinity and its surprising growth post-COVID, painting a vivid picture of this controversial denomination.
Nov 20, 2025 • 1h 9min
She Was Kidnapped, Used as Free Labor, and the OPC Turned a Blind Eye
Stephanie Cherniowski, a former member of the Neon Reformed Presbyterian Church, shares her harrowing story of abuse and institutional failure. From severe punishment and forced repentance to being kidnapped and imprisoned by church leaders, her testimony reveals a chilling account of manipulation, control, and sexual abuse. She discusses the ongoing trauma and how the church neglected to pursue justice for victims. Advocating for those in patriarchal settings, she emphasizes the importance of seeking safety and healing while holding faith through immense suffering.
Nov 17, 2025 • 1h 45min
The Problem with "Christian" Classical Schools
In this enlightening conversation, Susan Wise Bauer, a renowned historian and educator, joins Jill Wright, a certified K-12 educator with firsthand experience at The Oaks Academy. They tackle the complexities of 'Christian' classical education, debating its true meaning and the risks of using 'classical' as a marketing gimmick. Jill shares her insights on classroom pressures and the impact of patriarchy on school culture, while Susan critiques common misconceptions and calls for authentic educational practices that encourage critical thinking rather than indoctrination.
Nov 13, 2025 • 1h 50min
"I Was Groomed by Tom Garfield at Logos School Moscow"
Jade Miller, a former Logos School student and memoirist, shares her harrowing journey of spiritual abuse, detailing how grooming by teachers impacted her life. She highlights emotional manipulation and the toxic culture under Doug Wilson. An anonymous man reveals his troubling experience within CREC churches, facing moral dilemmas at work, church collusion, and the devastating effects of their gossip network on his mental health. Both guests advocate for prioritizing safety and healing, urging those trapped in such environments to seek freedom and support.
Nov 10, 2025 • 50min
"Southern Chattel Slavery Wasn't That Bad"
Thabiti Anyabwile, a pastor and former Gospel Coalition board member, engages in a thought-provoking dialogue about race and historical narratives in Christianity. He recounts his contentious debates with Doug Wilson regarding Wilson’s portrayal of the antebellum South and its implications for modern racism. Thabiti critiques Wilson’s arguments by examining the Bible’s true stance on slavery and challenges the romanticized views of the South. He encourages listeners to pursue a radical love that acknowledges diversity and seeks genuine community.
6 snips
Nov 8, 2025 • 1h 11min
From Mars Hill to Moscow: A Comparison of Mark Driscoll and Doug Wilson
Mike Cosper, a journalist from Christianity Today and the voice behind The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill, dives deep into the complexities of church ideology and abuse. He discusses how ideologies like Christian nationalism infiltrate congregations, comparing figures like Mark Driscoll and Doug Wilson. Cosper explores the implications of his new book, The Church in Dark Times, linking current cultural challenges to historical narratives. He highlights paths toward healthier faith practices, urging leaders to focus on the gospel over rigid ideologies.
13 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 2h 1min
"The CREC Kept a File on My Daughter's Sex Life with Her Husband"
Holly Rench, a former CREC member with deep Moscow connections, shares her family's traumatic experiences within the church, detailing oppressive practices and harmful counseling that affected her daughter. Jake Reynolds discusses his family's conflict with Trinity Covenant Church, which escalated to excommunication after they chose public schooling for their kids. Both guests emphasize the importance of recognizing abusive dynamics and encourage others to be wary of tightly controlled church environments.
Nov 3, 2025 • 1h 39min
Racism, Deception, and Anti-Semitism in Modern Day Christian Nationalism
Join Paul Miller, a Georgetown professor focusing on Christian nationalism, investigative author Katherine Stewart, political scientist Napp Nazworth, and ethicist Russell Moore as they dissect the complex roots and consequences of Christian nationalism. They explore how cultural changes fuel its rise, the strategic infiltration of public institutions, and the alarming anti-democratic calls from its supporters. The guests also discuss the influence of wealthy donors, the transformative impact on the Republican Party, and hopeful ways to counter authoritarianism.
