China's Deadly Lightning

Cult violence prompts pastors to ramp up doctrine—and work with state officials.

A Chinese cult known for physical violence and coercion is prompting Chinese pastors to upgrade theological instruction in their congregations and help government officials understand the difference between orthodox Christianity and cult-like offshoots.

The Eastern Lightning sect began in the 1990s around Deng, a woman the group considers the second incarnation of Christ. Members of Eastern Lightning have severely beaten people who try to leave the group, often leaving them crippled, according to Tony Lambert, director of Chinese ministry research at OMF International. Recently, the cult has been advertising for members in Hong Kong and Taiwan, prompting local church leaders to publicly denounce it.

Eastern Lightning leaders teach that followers must leave behind their families and property. According to Lian Xi, professor of world Christianity at Duke Divinity School, they brainwash, kidnap, and murder to grow their following.

The group, which may have several million members, is known for befriending single women and house church members, said Bob Fu, president of ChinaAid.

"The only positive effect is that it makes the house church more alert and vigilant of their teaching on biblical truth to their flocks," Fu said. Keep reading