People Magazine Investigates: Cults Episode Rating Graph

In 2014, a severed human leg draws attentions to The Work, an apocalyptic cult. Known as the Sinful Messiah, Julius Schacknow declares total devotion and terrible sacrifice, called the "special work," as the only way to achieve eternal salvation.

Charismatic preacher Sam Fife inspires a worldwide network of nondenominational Christian groups. To prepare for the apocalypse, followers renounce everything to move to the wilderness where they're subjected to beatings, exorcisms and brainwashing.

Prophet David Berg attracts thousands of followers as the Children of God cult spreads through communes around the world. But his free love message turns sinister, espousing prostitution, sexual abuse of children and rampant violence in prison camps.

To this day, lost souls flock to North Carolina where they're promised deliverance from demons by Pastor Jane Whaley at the Word of Faith Fellowship. But deliverance comes at a price, including beatings, medical horrors, and psychological abuse.

Deborah & Jim Green believe they're Generals in a holy army for God, for more than 30 years their harsh rule has destroyed families and ruined lives. Cult survivors tell how the Greens transformed from charismatic hippies into militant cult leaders.

Yahweh Ben Yahweh is a respected religious leader in the 1980s but behind the facade, he rules his followers with terror and violence. One survivor shares the story of this cult leader whose ruthless tactics ruin hundreds of lives and leaves 14 dead.

Initially the Alamo Christian Foundation once held hope for a better society for young people seeking purpose. But when Susan Alamo dies of cancer Tony reveals his dark side and turns his anger on his followers including taking multiple child brides.

In the late 50's Jim Jones founded the People's Temple focused on helping those in need. By 1975 he was setting up what was supposed to be a utopia known as Jonestown. But utopia quickly turned into a hell as he spiraled deeper into his own paranoia.