Episode Summary:

In this episode, we investigate how the Vineyard Movement’s obsession with growth metrics, married co-leadership structures, and lack of accountability mechanisms created the perfect conditions for abuse and systemic failure.

We dive into how these dynamics directly set the stage for the rise of Michael and Brenda Gatlin at Duluth Vineyard—highlighting the early warning signs of toxic leadership, ignored reports, and the cultural factors that prioritized expansion over the safety of congregations.

This is where the cracks beneath the surface began to split wide open.

Topics Covered:

• Recap of Vineyard’s explosive growth under John Wimber and the rise of Vineyard Music.

• How Vineyard USA tracks growth metrics—similar to corporate performance systems.

• How married couples dominate leadership roles within the movement—and why that creates built-in conflicts of interest.

• The lack of consistent church governance, board accountability, or standardized bylaws across Vineyard churches.

• The illusion of local church “autonomy”—and how it’s applied inconsistently.

• The rise of Michael and Brenda Gatlin at Duluth Vineyard through measurable growth and national influence.

• Early signs of spiritual abuse and toxic leadership behaviors by the Gatlins.

• The ignored warning letter sent by Pastor Ryan Bauers to Vineyard USA in 2014.

• How systemic weaknesses within Vineyard leadership structures enabled long-term damage.

Key References and Resources:

• Duluth Vineyard’s public timeline and updates regarding leadership issues:

➔ Duluth Vineyard - Our Response to Allegations of Misconduct

• Vineyard USA’s statements about church autonomy and national oversight:

➔ Vineyard USA - Our Values and Structures

• Guidepost Solutions (later hired to assess Vineyard USA structures):

➔ Guidepost Solutions

• GRACE (Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment):

➔ GRACE Official Website

• RAINN – National Sexual Assault Hotline (support for survivors):

➔ RAINN.org

Resources for Survivors:

• RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network):

➔ rainn.org | 1-800-656-HOPE

• The Hotline (Domestic and Emotional Abuse Support):

➔ thehotline.org | 1-800-799-SAFE

• GRACE (Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment):

➔ netgrace.org

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Disclaimer:

Spoiled Fruit: Faith & Power is a work of investigative journalism. It includes allegations and opinions based on interviews, public documents, media reports, and other sources. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

This podcast is not affiliated with Vineyard USA or any religious organization. Names, events, and quotes are used for reporting and documentary purposes under fair use and public interest protections. The creators of this series have taken care to verify information where possible and present commentary in a good-faith effort to inform the public.

Some episodes contain references to sexual abuse, spiritual trauma, and other sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised.