Customer Reviews

The Boston Movement: Critical Perspectives on the International Churches of Christ

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(6)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(3)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book gives out great information about one of the most dangerous mind-control cults around, especially with the personal testimonies. I can relate to this because I'm a former member of the International Churches of Christ. I definitely recommend it!

I find it unreasonable that anyone should criticize Giambalvo/Rosedale for providing *exactly* what they promised: CRITICAL PERSPECTIVES. The fact that their perspectives aren't favorable to the ICoC doesn't automatically make Giambalvo/Rosedale incorrect in their views. Nor should they be criticized for not providing "Biblical" or "Christian" framework for their arguments, as their stated purpose here ISN'T to approach the ICoC from a theological perspective. It seems that anyone who has *actually read* this book would pick up on the fact that it deals in large part with the *psychological* effects of being in a coercive religious group, as the ICoC is alleged to be.

As a ex-member of the ICoC myself, I suggest that this title is essential reading for anyone wanting to have a balanced view of this controversial religious group. Even some current ICoC members who read this work may find themselves nodding in agreement (albeit secretly!) - as a number of folks both inside and outside the ICoC know, this group isn't exactly what it portrays itself to be (e.g., the ICoC's claim to be "just a non-denominational church"). This book is an important part of any library of ICoC-related materials.

Giambalvo and Rosedale put together a candid look at real life stories from those who have been in this destructive group. The stories speak for themselves and there is no need for Biblical interpretation or references from the authors.

This book is a definitive resource for anyone needing to hear the real truth.

Unfortunately, I am an EX-ICC member. Though my involvement with this group was short in comparison to many ohters, I was able to expereince many abuses. Many may be quick to judge this book by lack of biblical content but we all need to remember that this book acts as affirmation to certain practices widely demonstrated throughout this cult. Many ex-members do not have a support network because most people can't understand the isolation one feels as they exit the ICC. The only wise words I can offer to any one who has left the ICC, or knows someone who has, "Fall Away" is the last lable you will ever become, and that lable is the most detrimental to overcome.

After being part of the ICOC via Sydney, I thought it was just me who was wrong. After reading this book, my views and opinions have changed dramatically. This doesn't discount the fact that I feel guilty everyday. Something which the book explains very effectively in regards to Mind Control methods. Important reading for anyone who is associated with this movement in ANY WAY!

As a member for almost 6 years, I can say this is probably the most complete and accurate piece written about the ICC to date. The personal testimonies, combined with how the characteristics of the church fit into the thought reform model, I found particularly helpful and compelling. Recommended for anyone who is thinking of joining or leaving the ICC or anyone who just wants the full picture of this group.

This is currently the best book out there about the International Churches of Christ. It has several sections, including case stories from a number of people who have been involved in the organization, and an explanation of Thought Reform techniques and a comparison to the ICC.

Highly recommended.

I cannot exclaim enough praise for this book! Not only does it perfectly describe and explain the operations of the ICC, but it also gives great comfort to those who are still struggling with its trauma! When you read this book, you think "Oh, they do that to everybody, so it's not me, it's them!". (But remember, they don't actually do that to everybody - they have a chosen few who don't get the abuse; otherwise, there would eventually be no members left - that's why there are members who have been there for many years.)

This review is for this particular book, not the ICC. Therefore, I will keep this review focused on the book and not the ICC.

My favorite part of the book is the real-life case stories that are used as examples. They bring to life the techniques of abuse and harrassment that are used. They also bring a lot of encouragement to those still struggling.

This book is perfect for people who are still trying to get rid of junk from the ICC. Trauma can take many years to resolve. As the book indicates, there are not a lot of psychologists or counselors who are trained or experienced with helping people with this type of trauma. That's another reason this book is so good - it acts as a "counselor" just by reading it - it really can help a lot.

I am an avid reader of works both for and against the Boston Movement (or International Churches of Christ). The ICC is one of the fastest growing movements in the world starting with only 30 in 1979 to over 200,000 today. Led by Kip McKean and the Los Angeles Church of Christ, it is a powerful force to be reckoned with.

This book exposes the trouble that legalism brings. Those who are seeking to save themselves and justify themselves before God (Romans 3:22-27) will find life a struggle. Freedom is just a word used in "Christian" language but seldom have I met ICC people who are truly free in Jesus (Gal. 5:1, 13).

This book will help you to see what is like to be a disciple in the International Churches of Christ. If you are in the movement, know someone who is, or you are just curious about the ICC, this book will be an eye opener at mind control and legalism. Jesus brings freedom from sin through His grace (Eph. 1:7; 2:8-10) but those in this book were introduced to religion of men (Mark 7:1-8).

If you are a true Christian than you will praise God for His mercy and grace when you are done with this book (Romans 4:5). If you are not a Christian, I would encourage you to read this along with the book of Romans and ask God to reveal His righteousness and salvation to you (Romans 10:4).

This book on the History of the Boston Movement, now known as the International Churches of Christ, gave me the information I needed to help me understand just what was happening to my daughter as she was recuited and subsequently controled by this destructive group. Necessary reading.