John invites John Ryan to share his story about how spiritual hunger and religious zeal brought him into the orbit of Glad Tidings Temple—a prominent charismatic church in Vancouver—and how that same zeal eventually contributed to its collapse. Raised Catholic but turned off by what he experienced, John Ryan recounts his dramatic conversion at a Salvation Army mission and his reluctant but ultimately passionate embrace of the culture at Glad Tidings. He recalls both the vibrant spiritual community and the troubling signs of imbalance and spiritual pride that began to emerge. His story is one of deep conviction, sincere worship, and eventual disillusionment as leadership failures and a shift from scriptural grounding to personality-driven prophecy caused the church to implode.<br /><br />The conversation explores how large-scale revival efforts, when rooted more in emotionalism, entertainment, and unchecked prophetic voices than in scripture, can lead entire congregations astray—often with devastating financial and emotional consequences. The two Johns reflect on how revival movements repeat many of the same patterns, the tragic cost to sincere believers, and how mature prayer, humility, and biblical discernment are essential in rebuilding after spiritual disappointment. They also discuss the legacy of Reg Layzell, early prophetic movements like the Latter Rain, and how historical awareness can help Christians avoid repeating the same harmful cycles.<br /><br />00:00 Introduction<br />0:31 John Ryan’s background and early life in Ontario<br />2:48 First visit to Glad Tidings and initial reluctance<br />4:19 Decision to join and early spiritual impact<br />6:03 Comparing personal journeys and early excitement<br />7:38 Positive aspects of Glad Tidings: hunger for God, missions, community, worship<br />12:30 The rise of pride and unhealthy boasting<br />13:36 Unity of the body, teaching on prophecy, and eschatology<br />14:10 Departure from scripture and flawed church governance<br />15:28 Music, business influence, and crowd-building tactics<br />18:09 Building campaign, fundraising, and large-scale borrowing<br />20:53 Prophecy over a businessman and resulting financial collapse<br />24:15 Manipulative prophecies and lack of accountability<br />28:04 Pastor’s moral failure and congregational split<br />29:53 Lessons learned and speaking up against wrongdoing<br />31:15 Emphasis on prayer at Glad Tidings—strengths and weaknesses<br />36:58 John Collins’ reflections on prayer and authenticity<br />40:42 Congregational versus personal prayer balance<br />41:48 Importance of scripture before prayer and Paul’s example<br />43:34 Reg Lazelle’s leadership and Latter Rain connections<br />47:53 Structural issues rooted in revival-era influences<br />48:17 Call to edify the body through prayer for unity and maturity<br />50:58 Recurring leadership scandals and history repeating itself<br />53:52 The dangers of elevating leaders to undue reverence<br />54:58 Advice for former Glad Tidings members<br />57:21 Closing remarks and resources<br />______________________<br />Weaponized Religion: From Christian Iden
