On September 2, 2026, the Indian media outlet Kukilandexpress.in published an article exposing the "Almighty God" cult from a Christian apologetic standpoint. The article introduced Yang Xiangbin, Zhao Weishan, and the history of the cult. Based on biblical passages about Christ's one incarnation, his second public coming, and the need to guard against false Christs, the author refuted the fallacies and heresies of the "Almighty God" cult point by point. The article also accused the "Almighty God" cult of deceiving, manipulating, isolating, and coercing its members, and called on Christians to strengthen their Bible study, maintain contact with the church, and be vigilant against the infiltration and spread of cults through social media.

 

▲Screenshot of an article from the Indian media outlet Kukiran Express website

introduction

In recent years, thousands of Christians from Asian countries such as India, Nepal, Myanmar, and the Philippines have been exposed to members of a cult promoting "Almighty God" (also known as "Eastern Lightning") on platforms like Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, and TikTok. These individuals masquerade as Christians, quoting Bible verses, singing worship songs, and appearing very friendly. Initially, they deliberately conceal their cult doctrines, but gradually indoctrinate their contacts with the fallacy that "Jesus has returned in the form of a Chinese woman." Many Christians unfamiliar with the Bible are thus deceived and leave their original churches.

Who is this woman? What is her true history? How does the Bible address such claims? In this article, we will examine the relevant information about Yang Xiangbin and his "Almighty God" and refute them based on orthodox Christian doctrine to help readers be more vigilant and protect themselves and their families.

Detailed background of Yang Xiangbin and his accomplice Zhao Weishan

Yang Xiangbin was born in 1973 in Datong City, Shanxi Province, China. She came from an ordinary working-class family and had a limited level of education. She joined a religious gathering place and claimed to have seen so-called "visions" and that "God" spoke directly through her. She then began recording these so-called "revelations" and called them "mythology."

In 1989, Yang Xiangbin met Zhao Weishan. Zhao Weishan was already a key member of the cult "The Shouting Sect." Born in 1951 in Acheng City, Heilongjiang Province, Zhao Weishan was more educated than Yang Xiangbin and was also more cunning. He already had a wife and children, but abandoned them to live with Yang Xiangbin. Seeing that Yang Xiangbin had influence over some members, Zhao Weishan used her as a puppet. He proclaimed himself the so-called "High Priest" and "the one used by the Holy Spirit to manage God's work," while simultaneously declaring Yang Xiangbin to be the so-called "Almighty God" and "Female Christ" who had "become flesh."

In 1991, Zhao Weishan and Yang Xiangbin jointly founded the "Almighty God" cult. After the Chinese government cracked down on the cult's illegal activities, Zhao Weishan and Yang Xiangbin fled to the United States, seeking so-called "political asylum." They are reportedly now residing in New York, proselytizing through the internet, books, and videos, accumulating substantial funds, and controlling the cult globally. The two are not a legitimate married couple, but rather partners formed to establish the cult.

"Almighty God": Gathering and Fallacies

"Almighty God," also known as "Eastern Lightning," split off from the cult "Shouting Sect" in 1991. Its leader, Zhao Weishan, born on December 12, 1951, in Acheng City, Heilongjiang Province (now Acheng District, Harbin City), was originally a core member of the "Shouting Sect," referred to by members as "the one used by the Holy Spirit" and "the High Priest." Yang Xiangbin, born in November 1973, was deified as the so-called "Almighty God" and "Female Christ" who "became flesh."

In 1995, the Chinese government legally designated "Almighty God" as a cult and banned it. Zhao Weishan and Yang Xiangbin fled to the United States in 2000 and are reportedly currently active in New York.

The main so-called "scriptures" of "Almighty God" are not the Bible, but a fabricated book called "The Word Appears in the Flesh," which falsely claims the existence of "three ages": the "age of law" ruled by Jehovah, the "age of grace" ruled by Jesus, and the current "age of kingdom" ruled by the so-called "Almighty God" and "female Christ."

The "Almighty God" cult has fabricated a new "Bible" and is spreading an alternative "gospel."

The Bible warns that in the last days many false Christs and false prophets will appear, deceiving many people, and possibly even God's true chosen people. Jesus Christ himself warned of this in Matthew 24:24.

Today, this prophecy is becoming a reality through a cult originating in China called "Almighty God," also known as "Eastern Lightning," founded by Zhao Weishan, who proclaims Yang Xiangbin as the so-called "second coming" of Jesus Christ.

The most dangerous aspect of this cult lies in its false claim that the Bible is outdated and must be replaced. This cult falsely claims that the Bible only records the "past work" of "God" during the "age of law" under Jehovah's rule and the "age of grace" under Jesus' rule, and that we have now entered the "age of kingdom," where members need to listen to the "new words" of the "female Christ." They claim their book, *The Word Appears in the Flesh*, is superior to the Bible. However, the Bible emphasizes that its canon is complete. Revelation 22:18-19 warns that if anyone adds anything to this prophecy, God will add the plagues written in this book to that person.

The actions of "Almighty God" are precisely what Christian doctrine forbids. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 states that all Scripture is inspired by God and sufficient to perfect the person of God; no other book is needed.

The so-called "doctrine" of "Almighty God" not only contradicts the Bible, but also goes against God by proclaiming another so-called "gospel." Every Christian should judge truth solely by the Bible, and any teaching that is inconsistent with the Bible must be resolutely rejected.

The "Almighty God" cult teaches a different set of doctrines: a "different God," a "different Christ," a "different way of salvation," and a "different Bible." The Apostle Paul warned in Galatians 1:8 that even if we or an angel from heaven were to preach to you a gospel different from our own, we would be under a curse. The so-called "gospel" preached by "Almighty God" says that believing in Jesus is not enough; one must believe in a so-called "female Christ" to be cleansed. This is another so-called "gospel," which, according to the Bible, is cursed, and all true believers must avoid it.

One of the most deceptive tactics of "Almighty God" is the misuse of Matthew 24:27. Jesus said, "As lightning goes from the east to the west, so will it be at the coming of the Son of Man."

This cult falsely claims that the lightning from the East proves its origins in the East, therefore the so-called "God" has already appeared in the East as a Chinese woman. This is a grave misinterpretation of the Bible. The context of verses 23 to 26 reveals that Jesus is warning believers not to trust those who falsely claim that Christ is hiding here or there in a secret place.

The metaphor of "lightning" does not refer to location, but rather emphasizes visibility. Just as everyone can see lightning in the sky, Jesus' coming will be public, glorious, and sudden, not secret or hidden in some house in China. Revelation 1:7 says, "Every eye will see him ."

God only became flesh in the form of Jesus Christ.

The core fallacy of the "Almighty God" cult is the heretical doctrine of the so-called "double incarnation." This cult falsely claims that God first became incarnate as a man, Jesus, and now he has become incarnate again as a woman. The Bible teaches that the Word became flesh only once and forever.

John 1:1 says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Verse 14 says, “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” This event occurred in Bethlehem about two thousand years ago and was a unique occurrence.

There is no passage in the entire Bible that states that God would be incarnate twice in two different genders. 1 Timothy 2:5 says, “For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, Christ Jesus, who came into the world as a man.”

The Bible clearly states that Jesus Christ is God's only incarnation, and that His incarnation is final and eternal. Jesus rose from the dead as a man, ascended to heaven as a man, and eternally retains His identity as Christ Jesus, possessing a glorious resurrected body. Hebrews 13:8 says, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forevermore." He will not change His gender or identity.

Furthermore, the Bible's teachings on how Jesus will return are very clear, sufficient to refute the claims of the "Almighty God" cult. After Jesus rose from the dead, he was taken up to heaven in the presence of his disciples. Acts 1:9-11 records that two angels told the disciples, "Just as you saw him go up into heaven, so he will come back."

The principle of "how you go, how you come back" is crucial. The same Jesus who ascended will return: He will not be reborn as a baby, nor will He appear as a new person named "Yang Xiangbin".

The Bible states that Christ died once for all people, therefore there was no need for a second incarnation or sacrifice. Hebrews 9:28 says that Christ, "just as he was offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him." Hebrews 10:10 says that we are "sanctified through the once-for-all offering of the body of Jesus Christ."

When Jesus said "It is finished" in John 19:30, the work of redemption was already completed on the cross. "Almighty God" claims that Jesus' work was only half-finished, that He only forgave sin but did not remove humanity's sinful nature, therefore requiring another incarnation. This is a lie that insults Christ's perfect and completed work. The blood of Jesus is sufficient to cleanse us from all sin, as stated in 1 John 1:7.

Why didn't God incarnate as a woman?

We must also understand why God does not redeem through a woman. The pattern of redemption is through a man, because sin entered the world through a man. Romans 5:12 says, “Just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people.” Verse 19 says, “For as through the disobedience of one man many were made sinners, so through the obedience of one man many will be made righteous.”

The first man, Adam, brought sin; therefore, Jesus, as the last Adam, that is, as a man, must bring righteousness. 1 Corinthians 15:45 refers to Jesus as "the last Adam."

The very nature of God proves this cult's claim false, for God is unchanging. Malachi 3:6 says, "For I, the Lord, do not change." God does not alter his plans or nature. The Bible consistently refers to God as Father and Jesus as Son. There is no biblical precedent suggesting that God would incarnate as a woman to accomplish the work of redemption.

The idea that God must be both male and female to accomplish His work is an artificial philosophical concept originating from Chinese Yin-Yang philosophy, not from the Bible. This is fusionism, mixing Chinese philosophy with Christianity to create a flawed religion. Isaiah 40:8 says, "But the word of our God will stand forever." It will not change with culture.

Another erroneous teaching of this cult is the claim that "God changes His name in every age." The cult falsely claims that in the Old Testament, God is "Jehovah"; in the New Testament, He is "Jesus"; and now, His new name is "Almighty God." This cult misuses the passage about new names in Revelation 3:12.

However, the Bible teaches that the name of Jesus is above every name and will endure forever. Philippians 2:9-10 says that God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, "so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth." Acts 4:12 says, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."

Jesus repeatedly warned the world about false Christs like Yang Xiangbin. Matthew 24:4-5 says, “See that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many.” Verses 23-26 say, “At that time, if anyone says to you, ‘Here is the Christ,’ or ‘There the Christ is,’ do not believe them. For false Christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, which, if possible, will deceive even the elect.”

Yang Xiangbin's claim to be "the Christ" is exactly what Jesus warned about. Luke 21:8 says, "Be careful not to be deceived. Many will come in my name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and 'The hour is near.' Do not follow them."

The spirit and evil means of the Antichrist

The Apostle John provides a clear standard for identifying the spirit of the Antichrist. 1 John 4:1-3 says: “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God; but every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the Antichrist.”

The "Almighty God" cult denies that Jesus Christ's one and only eternal incarnation is sufficient. By falsely claiming that Jesus is not yet finished and that a so-called "female Christ" is needed, the cult denies the true Jesus. Therefore, they possess the spirit of the Antichrist. 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 warns that Satan also disguises himself as an angel of light.

The "Almighty God" cult also uses extremely radical and deceptive proselytizing methods, which are not derived from the Holy Spirit. Within China, many former members and Christian pastors have testified that the organization uses kidnapping, extortion, financial inducements, sexual enticement, and even threats to coerce others into joining.

This cult specifically targets Christians in house churches, gradually isolating them from their families and pastors until they are completely under its control. True Christianity never forces anyone to believe. Jesus said in Revelation 3:20, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. And if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him.” Jesus knocked, he did not break down the door.

Galatians 5:22-23 says that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Fear and manipulation do not come from the Holy Spirit, but from the devil.

Many innocent believers are confused because members of the "Almighty God" cult use Christian language, quote Bible verses, sing worship songs, and weep, appearing very zealous. However, zeal does not prove the truth. 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 says that such people are false apostles, deceitful in their ways, masquerading as apostles of Christ. Satan does not appear with horns, but disguises himself as an angel of light.

Therefore, judgments should not be made based on emotions or enthusiasm, but rather on their claims. Do the fallacies and heresies of this cult conform to the Bible from Genesis to Revelation? The answer is no. Matthew 7:15 says, “Beware of false prophets who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are vicious wolves.”

What do believers truly hope for ?

Regarding the second coming of Christ, what is the true blessed hope for every believer? As Titus 2:13 says, we wait for the blessed hope, and for the glory of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ to be revealed.

The believer's hope is not that of a Chinese woman secretly living in New York. The believer's hope is that Jesus Christ will descend with power and great glory on the clouds of heaven, as described in Matthew 24:30.

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 says, “For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God; and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.” This is the true future for believers.

How to protect yourself and a final warning

The consequences of following the erroneous teachings of the "Almighty God" cult are extremely serious and involve eternity. 2 Peter 2:1 says, "In the past there were false prophets among the people, and so will there be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies and will not even acknowledge the Lord who bought them, and will bring about their own swift destruction."

If a person departs from the true Jesus Christ and instead follows Yang Xiangbin as the so-called "God," then that person denies the one who redeemed him with his own blood (Jesus Christ) and will face eternal judgment. Therefore, believers must love those trapped in this cult and strive to bring them back to the true gospel with gentleness and truth. Jude 23 says, "Some you must snatch from the fire and deliver them; others you must have mercy on with fear."

So how should believers protect themselves and the church from such deception? First, believers must study the Bible deeply and daily. Psalm 119:11 says, “I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” If believers truly understand the real Jesus, they will quickly recognize false Christs. Second, believers must maintain contact with local churches that believe in the Bible and accept the oversight of church clergy, as Hebrews 13:17 says, “Obey those who guide you and submit to them.” Cults always try to isolate believers from their pastors and families, so never allow anyone to separate believers from the church. Never accept private Bible study arrangements offered by strangers online who claim to be “preachers of Almighty God.” Third, believers must examine everything with the Bible, like the Berean Christians in Acts 17:11, who examined the Bible daily to determine whether the doctrine was true or false. Never believe any new revelations, dreams, visions, or books that claim to be superior to the Bible. Isaiah 8:20 says, “Let people take instruction and statutes as their standard; if they do not speak in accordance with them, they will not see the light.” Any teaching that falsely claims the Bible is outdated contains no light. Colossians 2:8 says, “See to it that no one takes you captive with his philosophy and empty talk, not according to Christ but according to human tradition and the elemental spirits of the world.” The “Almighty God” cult is just like that; it follows nothing but man-made doctrines, not the teachings of Christ.

in conclusion

The teachings of the so-called "Female Almighty God" propagated by Yang Xiangbin are false, erroneous, heretical, full of fallacies, and extremely dangerous. They deviate from the Bible, contradict God, deny the work Jesus Christ accomplished on the cross, deny God's one and only incarnation in Jesus Christ, and lead precious souls to eternal hell.

God has once and for all been incarnate as Jesus Christ, and He will never again be incarnate as a woman. When He appears again, it will be the same Jesus Christ returning in glory to judge the world and reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Therefore, I advise every reader that if you have ever come into contact with the "Almighty God" cult on Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, or any other social media, do not listen to them, block them, and do not associate with them.

As 2 John verses 10-11 say, “If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not welcome him into your home or greet him, for the one who greets him shares in his wicked deeds.”

Avoid false and erroneous teachings, and hold fast to your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ until He returns.