Devotion: Obedience or Betrayal – Can You Separate the Leader from the Crimes?

Devotion: Obedience or Betrayal – Can You Separate the Leader from the Crimes?

| Growing up in Polygamy | Episode 2 |

In Episode 2 of Devotion: Obedience or Betrayal, we dive into one of the most difficult questions any faith community can face: Can you separate a religious leader’s contributions from their crimes?

As former members of high-demand religious communities, we discuss the complicated legacy of leaders whose teachings helped shape entire generations, even after serious wrongdoing comes to light.

We compare the conviction of Hopeful Christian to our experiences with Warren Jeffs and explore why different communities respond so differently when their leaders are sent to prison. We also talk about the challenge many religious groups face when trying to distinguish themselves from other controversial movements. Why do some communities feel misunderstood by the media? When does criticism become unfair, and when is it necessary accountability? And how do members reconcile the good they experienced with the harm that was done?

Join us as we react to Episode 2 and share our perspective on faith, loyalty, accountability, and the lasting impact of religious leadership. What are your thoughts? Can a community honor a leader’s contributions while condemning their actions