While GFI is not a cult, it exhibits cult-like characteristics including: Scripture twisting and de facto assertion of extrabiblical revelation. A powerful analysis of the misuse of scripture in GFI's materials that leads to theological confusion and legalism. Authoritarianism. GFI discourages questioning or individual interpretation of the materials and the Ezzos appear to not be accountable to anyone. Their elders are on their payroll, have been on their payroll in the past, or have admitted they can not hold the Ezzos accountable. The GFI board of directors consists of Gary Ezzo, his wife, and his son-in-law. Exclusivism. GFI's missionary zeal (they literally send self-described missionaries to spread the word of GFI into churches) and elitist attitudes combined have resulted in significant division throughout the Christian community. This pattern of division has followed in Gary Ezzo's wake for almost twenty years. The church he led in New Hampshire before coming to Grace was split due to controversy over Ezzo with the church voting him out. Grace Community Church, where his parenting programs started, also split due to controversy over Ezzo, with a splinter group forming his current church. GCC has had to take the rather unprecedented action of issuing a public statement of rebuke and concern about Gary Ezzo. The three key couples who developed GFI with him all left due to concerns with his integrity and the impact of the materials. Isolationism. GFI followers tend to distance themselves from others not on the program, including other Christians. Physical and emotional endangerment. There is a significant failure to thrive problem associated with GFI's infant program and there are concerns expressed by child development experts over the programs for older children. While Gary Ezzo has dismissed the concerns of many experts in medicine, lactation, and child development, and claimed to be an authority on parenting, he himself does not even have an associate's degree from a community college, much less a bachelor's degree. His M.A. in Ministry "gives credit for life experience, does not require study in the original biblical languages, and requires no previous college degree."Read full review
Gary Ezzo, who is not a doctor nor has any formal training with children, is one of the most controversial authors in both the Christian and secular arenas. Why? There are so many issues surrounding him (medical, integrity, etc.) that they literally would take up too much space to chronicle here. If you are a discerning parent, research this author and his books at www.ezzo.info before using.
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