The Horrifying Business of Organized Religion - Nathan Apffel

Nathan Apffel’s Work and Perspective

Christian investigator and filmmaker Nathan Apffel says his work examining religious institutions grew from a desire to compare church practices with the teachings of Jesus. He argues that Christianity should focus on serving people in need, rather than preserving institutional power, wealth, or tradition. He distinguishes personal faith from organized religious systems, which he believes can become corrupt without adequate oversight.

Apffel says he has investigated churches in the United States and abroad. He describes being arrested and injured by security at a Texas church after asking about the pastor’s tax-free housing allowance and the church’s finances. He argues that nondenominational churches may be particularly vulnerable to abuse because they often lack the oversight structures found in established denominations. He also says charismatic leaders can use spectacle and emotional appeals to attract donations and build large, entertainment-driven ministries.

Financial Transparency and Accountability

A central theme of Apffel’s work is financial transparency. He alleges that large sums donated to churches and religious nonprofits are poorly tracked, and says his investigations have prompted some donors to redirect about $100 million. He argues that churches should disclose how money is spent and be accountable for leaders’ compensation and the use of institutional assets.

Apffel believes better stewardship of existing Christian donations could help fund major responses to homelessness, child exploitation, and foster care without requiring people to give more.

Institutions and Allegations

Apffel singles out the LDS Church as unusually self-sustaining because of its wealth and investment income. He cites an estimated $350 billion in assets and claims that investment returns could cover the church’s operating costs.

He also discusses alleged financial misrepresentations involving a Texas church and a Florida pastor, including claims related to charitable food distribution, housing benefits, property, and loans. These are presented as Apffel’s findings and allegations.

Apffel criticizes Franklin Graham’s organizations, particularly Samaritan’s Purse. He alleges that donors cannot readily see the costs of a veterans’ retreat operation in remote Alaska, questions the use of donor funds for expensive logistics, and describes a new Ford Bronco transported to the site. He says the retreat may serve a worthwhile purpose but argues that its costs and arrangements should be transparent. More broadly, he warns that religious charities can become vehicles for personal benefit when financial details are hidden.

Faith, Politics, and Reform

Apffel says his investigations are not intended to deny that people may find faith or spiritual support in the churches he criticizes. He says his focus is on leaders who exploit trust and donations.

He is also concerned that some churches, in response to declining membership, are leaning either into entertainment or Christian nationalism. In his view, using politics to reclaim religious authority damages both faith and politics.

Apffel describes The Business of Religion as a project moving from exposing misconduct toward proposing solutions. He calls for transparency, accountability, and reform, and argues that religious institutions may need to let failed systems end so healthier forms of faith and service can emerge. As an example of the early Christian model, he emphasizes Jesus’ attention to the sick, poor, marginalized, and imprisoned, arguing that service—not money or political power—was the source of Christianity’s influence.

Presenters and Contributors

• Mark Laita: Interviewer
• Nathan Apffel: Guest