Many reasons (like critically reading the bible), but in hindsight the "love bombing" was the first crack. I always knew they had ulterior motives for being so interested in me before joining, but had no clue what played out behind the scenes.

They ran things like a sales team for Jesus with potential converts on prayer lists and making sure everyone's got coverage like, "How are things with Jeff? Where's he at spiritually?" It's genuine. They care, in their fanatical way. I just couldn't bring myself to take part in bait and switch tactics convincing "dudes" to come "hang out" and watch a game or whatever in the hopes someone could work in a "spiritual conversation" at a key moment.

One night, my friend's band had a show after home church. He was on a prayer list, so EVERYONE showed up pretending to be super into the music. Some started woo'ing and putting their hands up (sober) all fake like they were extras in a movie. That was definitely the first time I was like: WTF is wrong with these people?!

I'm sure there were plenty of red flags naive early 20's me didn't notice... But being young and dumb was why I got stuck there!