Ep 4. The Sinful Messiah

In this episode of People Magazine Investigates: Cults season 2, titled "The Sinful Messiah," viewers are taken on a deep dive into the history and practices of one of the most notorious cult leaders in American history: David Koresh of the Branch Davidians.

The first half of the episode explores Koresh's upbringing and how he became the leader of the Branch Davidians, a religious sect that splintered off from the Seventh-Day Adventist church. Experts and former members discuss Koresh's charisma and the power he held over his followers, as well as the "end times" theology that he taught and how this shaped the group's beliefs. The episode then delves into how the group came to be in conflict with the federal government and law enforcement, leading up to the infamous siege of the Branch Davidian compound in Waco, Texas.

The second half of the episode centers around the siege itself, with firsthand accounts from FBI negotiators, survivors, and journalists who were on the scene. Viewers are given a sense of the tense atmosphere in the weeks leading up to the final assault, as well as the confusion and chaos of the final hours. The episode ends with a look at how the aftermath of the Waco siege has impacted both the survivors and the wider American public's perception of cults and their leaders.

Throughout the episode, viewers are presented with a sense of how the Branch Davidian cult operated and what drew people, including families with young children, to join. Experts weigh in on the tactics that cult leaders use to maintain control over their followers, and how understanding these dynamics can help prevent future tragedies. With its detailed exploration of the Waco siege and its aftermath, "The Sinful Messiah" is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of religion and power in America.