An Introduction to Cults

RMNI.org

Jim Sutherland, PhD, Director

An Introduction to Cults

http://www.rmni.org/

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God Overrules CultsGod Overrules Cults

John 10:24-28 John 10:24-28 24 The Jews gathered around him, saying, 24 The Jews gathered around him, saying, "How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, "How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, {{24 24 Or Messiah} tell us plainly." 25 Jesus answered, "I did tell Or Messiah} tell us plainly." 25 Jesus answered, "I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father's you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father's name speak for me, 26 but you do not believe because you name speak for me, 26 but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. 27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know are not my sheep. 27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.hand.

Much confusion exists as to the differences among Much confusion exists as to the differences among the terms “world religion,” denomination, sect, and the terms “world religion,” denomination, sect, and cult.cult.

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What is a cult?What is a cult?A The major divisions of Christianity are these, according to A The major divisions of Christianity are these, according to David Barrett:David Barrett:

Roman CatholicismRoman CatholicismIndependent ChurchesIndependent Churches

2020thth Century, Century, nondenominationalnondenominational, , Pentecostal/charismatic, African Independent, community Pentecostal/charismatic, African Independent, community & Bible churches, fundamentalist churches, ethnic & Bible churches, fundamentalist churches, ethnic churches, etc.churches, etc.11

Protestants—dating from the Reformation of the 1500sProtestants—dating from the Reformation of the 1500sOrthodox—dating from around 1000 AD, with Patriarch in Orthodox—dating from around 1000 AD, with Patriarch in

ConstantinopleConstantinopleAnglicans—English Protestant Episcopal churchAnglicans—English Protestant Episcopal churchMarginal “Christians” Marginal “Christians”

Having a defective view of Christ and the Trinity and Having a defective view of Christ and the Trinity and having a 2having a 2ndnd source of revelation. There are about source of revelation. There are about 34.1 34.1 millionmillion such Christians, including Jehovah-Witnesses and such Christians, including Jehovah-Witnesses and MormonsMormons22

1 Michael Jaffarian, “The demographics of world religions entering the 21st century,” in 1 Michael Jaffarian, “The demographics of world religions entering the 21st century,” in Between past & futureBetween past & future, J. Bonk ed. 2003, p. 264., J. Bonk ed. 2003, p. 264.

2 2 David B. Barrett & Todd M. Johnson, David B. Barrett & Todd M. Johnson, World Christian Trends AD30-AD 2200World Christian Trends AD30-AD 2200, p. 859., p. 859.

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Christian DenominationsChristian Denominations These embody certain distinctive These embody certain distinctive

emphases and spiritual traditions within emphases and spiritual traditions within Christianity. They do not deviate, at least Christianity. They do not deviate, at least when founded, from the main doctrines of when founded, from the main doctrines of the faith. They reflect distinctives of their the faith. They reflect distinctives of their founders and often begin by gaining founders and often begin by gaining converts among the most needy.converts among the most needy.• Independent, non-denominational churches Independent, non-denominational churches

usually stress Christusually stress Christ• Pentecostal/charismatics stress the SpiritPentecostal/charismatics stress the Spirit• Presbyterians and former “mainline” Presbyterians and former “mainline”

(“sideline”) denominations in the US have (“sideline”) denominations in the US have stressed the Father.stressed the Father.

• ““A denomination is a branch of institutionalized A denomination is a branch of institutionalized Christianity that has established a reputation of Christianity that has established a reputation of stability and credibility.” stability and credibility.” Another GospelAnother Gospel, p. 20, p. 20

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SectSect

A sect generally emphasizes or over-emphasizes A sect generally emphasizes or over-emphasizes a particular aspect of a religion, but is not usually a particular aspect of a religion, but is not usually heretical.heretical.

““A religious group which is gathered or called out A religious group which is gathered or called out of some natural organic group or state church on of some natural organic group or state church on positively anticonformist grounds, sometimes by positively anticonformist grounds, sometimes by a charismatic leader, but as often by some a charismatic leader, but as often by some principle of greater strictness, more singleminded principle of greater strictness, more singleminded dedication, or more intense abnegation of the dedication, or more intense abnegation of the world and its attractions. Often, even usually, the world and its attractions. Often, even usually, the sect has as its main principle some sect has as its main principle some ““In general, they seek to improve upon existing In general, they seek to improve upon existing traditions, rather than to replace them entirely.” traditions, rather than to replace them entirely.” (“The Culture of Cults” (“The Culture of Cults” www.fwbo-files.com/CofC.htm p. 10, 5/20/05) p. 10, 5/20/05)

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Cults--definitionCults--definition Any Christian can be guilty of teaching minor errors Any Christian can be guilty of teaching minor errors

and not be a “false teacher.”and not be a “false teacher.”• Only those gifted and called by God should teach, since He Only those gifted and called by God should teach, since He

will judge teachers more strictly (James 3:1).will judge teachers more strictly (James 3:1).• A false teacher today is the equivalent of a false prophet of A false teacher today is the equivalent of a false prophet of

the Old Testament (2 Pet. 2:1).the Old Testament (2 Pet. 2:1). NIV NIV 2 Peter 2:12 Peter 2:1 But there were also But there were also false prophetsfalse prophets among among

the people, just as there will be the people, just as there will be false teachersfalse teachers among you. among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them-- bringing swift the sovereign Lord who bought them-- bringing swift destruction on themselves.destruction on themselves.

Virtually all cults based upon Christianity deviate Virtually all cults based upon Christianity deviate from the biblical view of Christ’s nature and work. from the biblical view of Christ’s nature and work. • It’s difficult to believe that someone could embrace cultic It’s difficult to believe that someone could embrace cultic

beliefs about Christ and be or remain a Christian (John beliefs about Christ and be or remain a Christian (John 14:6).14:6).

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What is a cult?What is a cult?A cult is an unorthodox variation, or heresy, A cult is an unorthodox variation, or heresy, upon a major religion. This is a “religious” upon a major religion. This is a “religious” definition. It is an “organized heresy,” as definition. It is an “organized heresy,” as defined by Dave Breese.defined by Dave Breese.• The 10 largest world religions are, in order of The 10 largest world religions are, in order of

size: Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Nonreligion, size: Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Nonreligion, Chinese Folk-religion, Buddhism, Ethnoreligion, Chinese Folk-religion, Buddhism, Ethnoreligion, New Religions (Asian, since 1945, syncretistic), New Religions (Asian, since 1945, syncretistic), Sikhism Sikhism Michael Jaffarian, “The demographics of world religions entering the 21st century,” Michael Jaffarian, “The demographics of world religions entering the 21st century,” in in Between past & futureBetween past & future, J. Bonk ed. 2003, p. 253-8., J. Bonk ed. 2003, p. 253-8.

““World religions are religious movements that have World religions are religious movements that have attained a status recognized worldwide for their attained a status recognized worldwide for their embodiment of particular sacred traditions.”embodiment of particular sacred traditions.”

Another GospelAnother Gospel, p. 20, p. 20

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Cultic Patterns by Rick BranchCultic Patterns by Rick Branch

““They add to the Word of God.”They add to the Word of God.”• The Hare Krishnas consider it a good book only The Hare Krishnas consider it a good book only

and that the Bhagavad-Gita is superiorand that the Bhagavad-Gita is superior• The Unification Church considers the The Unification Church considers the Divine Divine

Principle Principle to be more authoritative than the to be more authoritative than the BibleBible

• Christian Science considers their Christian Science considers their Science and Science and Health with Key to the ScripturesHealth with Key to the Scriptures to be to be superior, and that the Bible has mistakes.superior, and that the Bible has mistakes.

• Charles Taze Russell, founder of the JWs, said Charles Taze Russell, founder of the JWs, said that it was better to read his that it was better to read his Studies in Studies in ScriptureScripture than to read the Bible than to read the Bible

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Cultic Patterns, by Rick BranchCultic Patterns, by Rick Branch ““They subtract from the deity of Christ.”They subtract from the deity of Christ.”

• JWs consider Jesus the Son of God, but not God JWs consider Jesus the Son of God, but not God the Sonthe Son

• For Mormons, “Christ is the ‘son of God’ For Mormons, “Christ is the ‘son of God’ become man. So is every other man the “son become man. So is every other man the “son of God.” of God.” (Dr. John H. Gerstner, (Dr. John H. Gerstner, Survey of the Major CultsSurvey of the Major Cults))

““They multiply the requirements for They multiply the requirements for salvation.”salvation.”• For JWs, it is publish, or perish.For JWs, it is publish, or perish.• Almost all religions and cults teach that we Almost all religions and cults teach that we

must do certain things to earn salvation. We must do certain things to earn salvation. We believe that it is a gift through faith, and that believe that it is a gift through faith, and that even faith is a gift of God (Eph. 2:8-9).even faith is a gift of God (Eph. 2:8-9).

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Cultic Patterns, by Rick BranchCultic Patterns, by Rick Branch

They divide “the follower’s loyalty.”They divide “the follower’s loyalty.”• ““The only church syndrome”The only church syndrome”• They try to keep followers from their They try to keep followers from their

families in many cases, and from the families in many cases, and from the larger society (JWs).larger society (JWs).

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Descriptive Definition of a CultDescriptive Definition of a Cult

A ‘cult’ is a religious group that has a A ‘cult’ is a religious group that has a ‘prophet’-founder called of god to ‘prophet’-founder called of god to give a special message not found in give a special message not found in the Bible itself, often apocalyptic in the Bible itself, often apocalyptic in nature and often set forth in nature and often set forth in ‘inspired’ writings. In deference to ‘inspired’ writings. In deference to this charismatic figure or these this charismatic figure or these ‘inspired’ writings, the style of ‘inspired’ writings, the style of leadership is authoritarian and there leadership is authoritarian and there is frequently an exclusivistic outlook, is frequently an exclusivistic outlook, supported by legalistic lifestyle and supported by legalistic lifestyle and persecution mentality.” persecution mentality.” Another GospelAnother Gospel, p. 16, p. 16

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Sociological Definition of a CultSociological Definition of a Cult

Control of behavior, information, thoughts, and Control of behavior, information, thoughts, and emotions—BITE acronym of Steven Hassan emotions—BITE acronym of Steven Hassan (“The (“The Culture of Cults” Culture of Cults” www.fwbo-files.com/CofC.htm p.5, 5/20/05) p.5, 5/20/05)

““Cult belief systems present a [bi-polar] vision in Cult belief systems present a [bi-polar] vision in which any individual, through following the which any individual, through following the group’s teachings, can begin to aspire to a ‘new group’s teachings, can begin to aspire to a ‘new life’ or a ‘new self’, based on these ideals…life’ or a ‘new self’, based on these ideals…Believers begin to see their old self, their pre-cult Believers begin to see their old self, their pre-cult personality, as having fallen short of the ideal.” personality, as having fallen short of the ideal.” (“The Culture of Cults” (“The Culture of Cults” www.fwbo-files.com/CofC.htm page 6, 5/20/05) page 6, 5/20/05)

““Cults gain influence over their members by Cults gain influence over their members by promoting a belief system which undermines promoting a belief system which undermines members’ confidence in their own judgment…so members’ confidence in their own judgment…so that they find it difficult to make decisions for that they find it difficult to make decisions for themselves, independently of guidance from the themselves, independently of guidance from the group’s teachers and preceptors.” group’s teachers and preceptors.” (“The Culture of Cults” (“The Culture of Cults” www.fwbo-files.com/CofC.htm p. 7, 5/20/05) p. 7, 5/20/05)

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Why are there cults?Why are there cults? Satan is the “Father of lies” (John 8:44) and challenges Satan is the “Father of lies” (John 8:44) and challenges

the Word of God (Gen. 3:4) with false authority.the Word of God (Gen. 3:4) with false authority. Due to sin, charismatic individuals use religion to feed Due to sin, charismatic individuals use religion to feed

their pride, passions and possessions.their pride, passions and possessions. Cultic leaders exploit doctrines and truths neglected Cultic leaders exploit doctrines and truths neglected

by the church, or play off them with half-truths. by the church, or play off them with half-truths. Because the church hasn’t taught correct doctrine Because the church hasn’t taught correct doctrine well, Christians sometimes are beguiled by flamboyant well, Christians sometimes are beguiled by flamboyant leaders who beguile them with sweet lies.leaders who beguile them with sweet lies.

God dealt with false prophets about 1500 BC when he God dealt with false prophets about 1500 BC when he gave the marks of false prophets.gave the marks of false prophets.• If a prophet spoke in God’s name and the prophesy If a prophet spoke in God’s name and the prophesy did not did not

happenhappen, the prophet was to be put to death (Dt. 18:22)., the prophet was to be put to death (Dt. 18:22).• If prophesies actually were fulfilled, if the prophet then led If prophesies actually were fulfilled, if the prophet then led

people to other gods, he was a false prophet.people to other gods, he was a false prophet.• A false prophet spoke in the name of A false prophet spoke in the name of other godsother gods (Dt. 18:20). (Dt. 18:20).

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Origin of CultsOrigin of Cults ““If you study church history, I think you If you study church history, I think you

will find that heresies arise like this: the will find that heresies arise like this: the church begins to fail to preach, or church begins to fail to preach, or preaches very weakly, say points 40-50 preaches very weakly, say points 40-50 (on a continuum of 1-100 representing all (on a continuum of 1-100 representing all doctrine). Let us say, therefore, that points doctrine). Let us say, therefore, that points 40-50 are unstressed. Two things follow. 40-50 are unstressed. Two things follow. First, the situation is unbiblical. True First, the situation is unbiblical. True Christianity is a balanced whole. Second, Christianity is a balanced whole. Second, Satan takes points 40-50 out of the total Satan takes points 40-50 out of the total Christian framework and encourages Christian framework and encourages someone to overemphasize them. And this someone to overemphasize them. And this becomes heresy.”becomes heresy.”—Dr. Francis Schaeffer, —Dr. Francis Schaeffer, The New The New SuperspiritualitySuperspirituality, p. 399, Vol. 3, Crossway Books, p. 399, Vol. 3, Crossway Books

• ““Cults are the unpaid bills of the Church.” Dr. Cults are the unpaid bills of the Church.” Dr. Walter MartinWalter Martin

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Cults & most religions are Cults & most religions are small but manysmall but many

As of 2000, the top 10 world religions have As of 2000, the top 10 world religions have included 99.4% of the world’s populationincluded 99.4% of the world’s population11..

“ “The main thing we’ve discovered is that The main thing we’ve discovered is that there is there is enormousenormous religious change going on religious change going on across the world, all the time. It’s massive, it’s across the world, all the time. It’s massive, it’s complex, and it’s continual. We have identified complex, and it’s continual. We have identified nine thousand and nine hundred distinct and nine thousand and nine hundred distinct and separate religions in the world, increasing by separate religions in the world, increasing by two or three new religions every day…They two or three new religions every day…They are a very serious subject.”are a very serious subject.”22

1 Michael Jaffarian, “The Demographics of World Religions Entering the 21st Century,” in Between past and future, J. Bonk, ed. 2003, p. 250.

2 David Barrett, 2002, cited by Jaffarian, p. 253.

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Cults & most religions are Cults & most religions are small but manysmall but many

Because so many cults are born, Because so many cults are born, and because information about and because information about many of these is available on the many of these is available on the Internet, we will focus upon the Internet, we will focus upon the common characteristics of the cults common characteristics of the cults to better recognize them.to better recognize them.

Website addresses will give Website addresses will give locations of selected cult locations of selected cult information.information.

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Cults only Cults only seemseem to be a modern to be a modern problemproblem

Montanus (circa 150 AD) believed himself to Montanus (circa 150 AD) believed himself to be the Spirit’s mouthpiece to proclaim be the Spirit’s mouthpiece to proclaim Christ’s return. There were signs, ecstatic Christ’s return. There were signs, ecstatic utterances and others had to have those utterances and others had to have those gifts, etc.gifts, etc.

Albigensians in the Middle Ages taught Albigensians in the Middle Ages taught dualism—that the OT god was darkness and dualism—that the OT god was darkness and the NT god of light, and that with baptism the NT god of light, and that with baptism came sinless perfection. Only the perfect came sinless perfection. Only the perfect could pray to god, not believers, etc.could pray to god, not believers, etc.

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Cults only Cults only seemseem to be modern to be modern

The media highlight spectacular cult The media highlight spectacular cult perversions, such as Jim Jones’ People’s perversions, such as Jim Jones’ People’s Temple, which led to the deaths of 909 Temple, which led to the deaths of 909 people in 1978, or the deaths of hundreds people in 1978, or the deaths of hundreds of the “Ten Commandments of God” sect of the “Ten Commandments of God” sect in Uganda in 2000.in Uganda in 2000.

Flamboyant leaders also capture headlines Flamboyant leaders also capture headlines “Bagwan Shree Rajneesh,” had 93 Rolls “Bagwan Shree Rajneesh,” had 93 Rolls Royces, preached free sex and claimed to Royces, preached free sex and claimed to be Buddha. He died in 1990. be Buddha. He died in 1990. www.apologeticsindex.org/b40html

Elbert Spriggs of the “Twelve Tribes” jets around the world Elbert Spriggs of the “Twelve Tribes” jets around the world with his fourth wife to luxury homes in France, Brazil and with his fourth wife to luxury homes in France, Brazil and Cape CodCape Cod www.rickross.com/reference/tribes/tribes25.html

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Jesus’ Teaching on Jesus’ Teaching on False Spiritual LeadersFalse Spiritual Leaders

John 10:7-15 (NIV)John 10:7-15 (NIV) 8 8 All who ever came before All who ever came before me were thieves and robbersme were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did , but the sheep did not listen to them. not listen to them. • These religions came before Christianity: Judaism, Hinduism, These religions came before Christianity: Judaism, Hinduism,

Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism (moral system at first), Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism (moral system at first), Jains, polytheistic/ethnic religions and Zoroastrianism Jains, polytheistic/ethnic religions and Zoroastrianism ((Eerdman’s handbook to the world’s religionsEerdman’s handbook to the world’s religions, 1982, pp. 46-47.), 1982, pp. 46-47.) A major A major characteristic of false religion is financial and physical characteristic of false religion is financial and physical exploitation of followersexploitation of followers

9 I am the gate; 9 I am the gate; whoever enters through me will whoever enters through me will be savedbe saved. He will come in and go out, and find . He will come in and go out, and find pasture. pasture. • Christianity is exclusive—there is only one gate to salvation. Christianity is exclusive—there is only one gate to salvation.

Universalism considers all religions to be equally true and Universalism considers all religions to be equally true and valid. Pluralism defends the right of all religions to exist.valid. Pluralism defends the right of all religions to exist.

W. Gary Phillips & Wm. Brown. W. Gary Phillips & Wm. Brown. Making sense of your worldMaking sense of your world. . 1991. pp. 160-1.1991. pp. 160-1.

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Jesus & Cults & False ReligionsJesus & Cults & False Religions

John John 10:10 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroykill and destroy; ;

I have come that they may have life, and have it to I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. the full. • Cult leaders dominate and devour the flock. They Cult leaders dominate and devour the flock. They take take

awayaway from their lives. from their lives.• Ezekiel 34:2-5 Ezekiel 34:2-5 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says: 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says:

Woe to the shepherds of Israel Woe to the shepherds of Israel who only take care of who only take care of themselvesthemselves! Should not shepherds ! Should not shepherds take care of the take care of the flockflock? 3 You eat the curds, ? 3 You eat the curds, clothe yourselvesclothe yourselves with the with the wool and wool and slaughter the choice animalsslaughter the choice animals, but , but you do not you do not take care of the flocktake care of the flock. 4 You have not strengthened the . 4 You have not strengthened the weak or healed the sick or bound up the injured. You have weak or healed the sick or bound up the injured. You have not brought back the strays or searched for the lost. not brought back the strays or searched for the lost. You You have ruled them harshly and brutallyhave ruled them harshly and brutally. 5 So they were . 5 So they were scattered because there was no shepherd, and when they scattered because there was no shepherd, and when they were scattered they became food for all the wild animals. were scattered they became food for all the wild animals.

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Jesus and False LeadersJesus and False Leaders

11 "I am the good shepherd. 11 "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheeplays down his life for the sheep. 12 The hired . 12 The hired hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. flock and scatters it. • Satan is free to destroy inside the cultist’s organization.Satan is free to destroy inside the cultist’s organization.

13 13 The man runs away because he is a hired The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheephand and cares nothing for the sheep. . • The false shepherd sacrifices nothing, the Good Shepherd The false shepherd sacrifices nothing, the Good Shepherd

sacrificed even his life. sacrificed even his life. • Rick Warren, of Saddleback Church in the USA, determined Rick Warren, of Saddleback Church in the USA, determined

that none in his congregation, numbering 20,000 in that none in his congregation, numbering 20,000 in weekly attendance in 2005, would sacrifice more than he. weekly attendance in 2005, would sacrifice more than he. For their first building program, he donated his entire For their first building program, he donated his entire salary for two years. salary for two years. www.saddleback.com www.pastors.com

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Jesus & False ProphetsJesus & False Prophets

Jesus predicted that many false Jesus predicted that many false prophets would follow Him, deceiving prophets would follow Him, deceiving many (Matt. 24:11). many (Matt. 24:11). • These major religions came after Jesus: These major religions came after Jesus:

Islam, Shinto, Bahai, Sikhs, etc. Islam, Shinto, Bahai, Sikhs, etc. ((Eerdman’s Eerdman’s handbook to the world’s religionshandbook to the world’s religions, 1982, pp. 46-47.) , 1982, pp. 46-47.)

• As noted above, over 34 million As noted above, over 34 million “marginal Christians” have been “marginal Christians” have been deceived. deceived.

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New Testament False ProphetsNew Testament False Prophets Matthew 7:15 "Watch out for false prophets. They Matthew 7:15 "Watch out for false prophets. They

come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. they are ferocious wolves. • Cultic leaders try to convince Christians that they too are Cultic leaders try to convince Christians that they too are

Christians. Mormons (“Church of Jesus Christ of the Christians. Mormons (“Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints”) the “Unification Church” (Moonies), Latter Day Saints”) the “Unification Church” (Moonies), and the Jehovah-Witnesses (who say that they believe and the Jehovah-Witnesses (who say that they believe that Jesus is the Son of God, but deny that He is God the that Jesus is the Son of God, but deny that He is God the Son) falsely assert their Christianity. Son) falsely assert their Christianity.

NIV NIV 2 Peter 2:12 Peter 2:1 But there were also false prophets But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among the people, just as there will be false teachers among youamong you. They will . They will secretly introducesecretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them-- bringing swift destruction on Lord who bought them-- bringing swift destruction on themselves.themselves.

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Jesus’ Narrow GateJesus’ Narrow Gate Matthew 7:13-20 Matthew 7:13-20 13 "Enter through the narrow gate. For 13 "Enter through the narrow gate. For

wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. find it. • Again, Jesus made no attempt to be tolerant or inclusive or to Again, Jesus made no attempt to be tolerant or inclusive or to

respect spiritual diversity. He narrowed, not broadened, the respect spiritual diversity. He narrowed, not broadened, the way to salvation. Some Christians are far more “tolerant” and way to salvation. Some Christians are far more “tolerant” and “loving” and “inclusive” than was Jesus.“loving” and “inclusive” than was Jesus.

• There are not many paths to the same spiritual mountaintop, There are not many paths to the same spiritual mountaintop, but one way to be saved—through the Gate, who is Christ but one way to be saved—through the Gate, who is Christ Jesus (John 10:7). Jesus (John 10:7).

• Luke 13:23-24 Luke 13:23-24 23 Someone asked him, "Lord, are only a few 23 Someone asked him, "Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?" He said to them, 24 "Make every people going to be saved?" He said to them, 24 "Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to.”you, will try to enter and will not be able to.”

• Cult leaders make their own narrow gate, one not purchased Cult leaders make their own narrow gate, one not purchased by the atonement of Jesus. They add any number of “good” by the atonement of Jesus. They add any number of “good” works for “salvation.”works for “salvation.”

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Jesus & Identifying False LeadersJesus & Identifying False Leaders Matthew 7:16 By their fruit you will Matthew 7:16 By their fruit you will

recognize them. Do people pick recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? 17 Likewise every from thistles? 17 Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19 Every cannot bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 20 Thus, by their fruit you will Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.recognize them.

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Elymas- An ExampleElymas- An Example

Elymas (Bar-Jesus) was a false Elymas (Bar-Jesus) was a false prophet and sorcerer (Acts 13:6).prophet and sorcerer (Acts 13:6).• Acts 13:10 Acts 13:10 Paul told him, "You are a Paul told him, "You are a

child of the devilchild of the devil and an and an enemy of enemy of everything that is righteverything that is right! You are ! You are full full of all kinds of deceit and trickeryof all kinds of deceit and trickery. . Will you never stop Will you never stop perverting the perverting the right ways of the Lordright ways of the Lord?” This ?” This perfectly describes a cultic leader today.perfectly describes a cultic leader today.

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Peter’s Exposure of Heretical Peter’s Exposure of Heretical Leaders -- 2 Peter 2Leaders -- 2 Peter 2

The 3 major characteristics of cultic The 3 major characteristics of cultic leaders are arrogance, greed and leaders are arrogance, greed and sexual sin.sexual sin.

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NIV NIV 2 Peter 2:12 Peter 2:1 But there were also false prophets among the people, But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them-- bringing swift destruction on themselves.bought them-- bringing swift destruction on themselves.• False prophets of the Old Testament are equated with false teachers in the False prophets of the Old Testament are equated with false teachers in the

New Testament.New Testament.• Denying the full deity of Christ is typical.Denying the full deity of Christ is typical.

2 Many will follow their shameful ways and will bring the way of truth 2 Many will follow their shameful ways and will bring the way of truth into disrepute.into disrepute.• Cults are often quite successful in attracting followers, as are Mormons & Cults are often quite successful in attracting followers, as are Mormons &

JWs.JWs.• The “Lord’s Resistance Army” (LRA) of Uganda exploits women and children The “Lord’s Resistance Army” (LRA) of Uganda exploits women and children

in the name of the 10 Commandments in the name of the 10 Commandments 3 In their greed these teachers will exploit you with stories they have 3 In their greed these teachers will exploit you with stories they have

made up. made up. • Often founders base their religion upon special revelations—dreams and Often founders base their religion upon special revelations—dreams and

visionsvisions• Joseph Smith (Mormons) claimed to have been visited by the angel Joseph Smith (Mormons) claimed to have been visited by the angel

“Moroni” and to have been given a special tablet of gold from God.“Moroni” and to have been given a special tablet of gold from God.• The “Divine Principle” of Sun Myong Moon is an incredibly complex, but The “Divine Principle” of Sun Myong Moon is an incredibly complex, but

fictional, story.fictional, story.

2929


NIV NIV 2 Peter 2:32 Peter 2:3 Their condemnation has long been Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping.been sleeping.• God has already judged them. Hell is awaiting. We await a God has already judged them. Hell is awaiting. We await a

Savior, they await the Devil.Savior, they await the Devil. 4 For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, 4 For if God did not spare angels when they sinned,

but but sent them to hellsent them to hell, {, {4 4 Greek Tartarus} putting Greek Tartarus} putting them into gloomy dungeons to be held for judgment;them into gloomy dungeons to be held for judgment;

5 if he did not spare the ancient world when he 5 if he did not spare the ancient world when he brought the flood on its ungodly people, but protected brought the flood on its ungodly people, but protected Noah, a preacher of righteousness, and seven others;Noah, a preacher of righteousness, and seven others;

6 if he condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah 6 if he condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah by burning them to ashes, and made them an by burning them to ashes, and made them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodlyexample of what is going to happen to the ungodly

3030


NIV NIV 2 Peter 2:12 Peter 2:1 7 and if he rescued Lot, a righteous man, 7 and if he rescued Lot, a righteous man, who was distressed by the filthy lives of lawless menwho was distressed by the filthy lives of lawless men

8 (for that righteous man, living among them day after 8 (for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard)—deeds he saw and heard)—• Leaders often live filthy lives. Jim Jones did at Jonestown. Shree Leaders often live filthy lives. Jim Jones did at Jonestown. Shree

Rajneesch taught free love in his ashrams. Rajneesch taught free love in his ashrams. • Brigham Young, second leader of the Mormons, had 70 wives.Brigham Young, second leader of the Mormons, had 70 wives.

9 if this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue godly 9 if this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment, while continuing their punishment. judgment, while continuing their punishment. • Sometimes an apparently godly person can be deceived and Sometimes an apparently godly person can be deceived and

join a cult. Often they have zeal without knowledge God has join a cult. Often they have zeal without knowledge God has rescued many.rescued many.

Proverbs 19:2 Proverbs 19:2 2 It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, 2 It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way.nor to be hasty and miss the way.

• Cultic leaders are slaves of their own desires, which is Cultic leaders are slaves of their own desires, which is punishment.punishment.

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They are ArrogantThey are Arrogant 10 This is especially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of 10 This is especially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of

the sinful nature {the sinful nature {10 10 Or the flesh} and despise authority. Bold and Or the flesh} and despise authority. Bold and arrogant, these men are not afraid to slander celestial beings;arrogant, these men are not afraid to slander celestial beings;• Here we see arrogance in that they despise proper authority and Here we see arrogance in that they despise proper authority and

substitute their own (Jude 1:9). substitute their own (Jude 1:9). • A “missionary” that I exposed as a fraud recently gave me his prayer A “missionary” that I exposed as a fraud recently gave me his prayer

cards so that I could distribute them.cards so that I could distribute them. 11 yet even angels, although they are stronger and more 11 yet even angels, although they are stronger and more

powerful, do not bring slanderous accusations against such beings powerful, do not bring slanderous accusations against such beings in the presence of the Lord.in the presence of the Lord.• The way some cultic leaders speak against the Devil is quite amazing. The way some cultic leaders speak against the Devil is quite amazing.

We are told to say, “The Lord rebuke you ” (Jude 1:9), not to rebuke the We are told to say, “The Lord rebuke you ” (Jude 1:9), not to rebuke the Devil ourselves.Devil ourselves.

12 But these men blaspheme in matters they do not understand. 12 But these men blaspheme in matters they do not understand. They are like brute beasts, creatures of instinct, born only to be They are like brute beasts, creatures of instinct, born only to be caught and destroyed, and like beasts they too will perish.caught and destroyed, and like beasts they too will perish.• They walk and live “in the flesh” (or according to the “sinful nature”-They walk and live “in the flesh” (or according to the “sinful nature”-

NIV) (Gal. 5:16-24).NIV) (Gal. 5:16-24).• They are such slaves of their passions that they let down their guard They are such slaves of their passions that they let down their guard

and are often caught in their sin.and are often caught in their sin.

3232

They are Boldly ImmoralThey are Boldly Immoral

NIV NIV 2 Peter 2:2 Peter 2:13 They will be paid back with harm for the harm they have 13 They will be paid back with harm for the harm they have done. Their idea of pleasure is to done. Their idea of pleasure is to carouse carouse in broad daylight. in broad daylight. • trufh,trufh,, h/j, h` as a way of life , h/j, h` as a way of life indulgence, reveling indulgence, reveling (2P 2.13); (2P 2.13); luxurious living, luxurious living,

luxury luxury Friberg Friberg They are blots and blemishes [spills on the dress of the Bride of Christ], They are blots and blemishes [spills on the dress of the Bride of Christ],

reveling in their pleasures while they feast with you. {reveling in their pleasures while they feast with you. {13 13 Some Some manuscripts in their love feasts}manuscripts in their love feasts}

14 With eyes full of adultery, 14 With eyes full of adultery, • Friberg--.e. Friberg--.e. ever on the lookout for an adulterous woman ever on the lookout for an adulterous woman (2P 2.14)] (2P 2.14)]

they never stop sinning; they seduce the unstable; they are experts in they never stop sinning; they seduce the unstable; they are experts in greedgreed• A disposition to have more than one's share A disposition to have more than one's share greed, covetousness, avaricegreed, covetousness, avarice - -

Friberg)-- an accursed brood!Friberg)-- an accursed brood!• The founder of Jehovah-Witnesses, Charles Taze Russell, sold “miracle wheat” The founder of Jehovah-Witnesses, Charles Taze Russell, sold “miracle wheat”

that was inferior to regular wheat (Walter Martin, that was inferior to regular wheat (Walter Martin, Kingdom of the CultsKingdom of the Cults, 1985 ed., , 1985 ed., p. 40-41).p. 40-41).

• Joseph Smith, founder of the Mormons, was a frustrated treasure hunter who dug Joseph Smith, founder of the Mormons, was a frustrated treasure hunter who dug holes all around his hometown, vainly trying to locate wealth.holes all around his hometown, vainly trying to locate wealth.

15 They have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of 15 They have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam son of Beor, who loved the wages of wickedness.Balaam son of Beor, who loved the wages of wickedness.

16 But he was rebuked for his wrongdoing by a donkey-- a beast without 16 But he was rebuked for his wrongdoing by a donkey-- a beast without speech-- who spoke with a man's voice and restrained the prophet's speech-- who spoke with a man's voice and restrained the prophet's madness.madness.

3333

They are Boldly ImmoralThey are Boldly Immoral

17 These men are springs without water and mists driven 17 These men are springs without water and mists driven by a storm. Blackest darkness is reserved for them. by a storm. Blackest darkness is reserved for them. • They promise refreshment, but cannot give it.They promise refreshment, but cannot give it.• God isn’t ignoring them. Jesus is preparing a place for God isn’t ignoring them. Jesus is preparing a place for

His sheep. The Father is preparing a place for the goats His sheep. The Father is preparing a place for the goats in hell (Jude 1:6).in hell (Jude 1:6).

18 For they mouth empty, boastful words and, by 18 For they mouth empty, boastful words and, by appealing to the lustful desires of sinful human nature, they appealing to the lustful desires of sinful human nature, they entice people who are just escaping from those who live in entice people who are just escaping from those who live in error.error.• The “Children of God” advocated “fishy evangelism” by The “Children of God” advocated “fishy evangelism” by

which women became prostitutes in order to lure men which women became prostitutes in order to lure men into their cult.into their cult.

19 They promise them freedom, while they themselves are 19 They promise them freedom, while they themselves are slaves of depravity-- for a man is a slave to whatever has slaves of depravity-- for a man is a slave to whatever has mastered him. mastered him. • Slaves cannot promise freedom. They are slaves to their Slaves cannot promise freedom. They are slaves to their

own passions.own passions.

3434

Expose CultsExpose Cults

Ephesians 5:11Ephesians 5:11 Have nothing to do with the Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather exposeexpose them.them. • This is not being “judgmental.” We’re not to judge sins in others that This is not being “judgmental.” We’re not to judge sins in others that

we we currently practicecurrently practice • NIV NIV Matthew 7:1Matthew 7:1 "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. "Do not judge, or you too will be judged.• 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with

the measure you use, it will be measured to you.the measure you use, it will be measured to you.• 3 "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and 3 "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and

pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?• 4 How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your 4 How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your

eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?• 5 You hypocrite, 5 You hypocrite, firstfirst take the plank out of your own eye, and take the plank out of your own eye, and thenthen

you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye. Jude 1:3Jude 1:3 Dear friends, although I was very eager Dear friends, although I was very eager

to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt I had to write and urge you to contend for the I had to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints. faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints. NIVNIV

3535

Case StudyCase Study Does this man belong to a Does this man belong to a

cult?cult?• Is Legion Maria a cult?Is Legion Maria a cult?

What does he believe and What does he believe and teach?teach?

What is the nature of his What is the nature of his “fruit”?“fruit”?• Do they teach salvation by Do they teach salvation by

sprinkling with “holy” water sprinkling with “holy” water and by animal sacrifice (Heb. and by animal sacrifice (Heb. 10:4)10:4)

• Are they involved in witchcraftAre they involved in witchcraft—water sprinkling with spells?—water sprinkling with spells?

• Who was Ondeto? Was he a Who was Ondeto? Was he a man/prophet, who seemed to man/prophet, who seemed to have no origin?have no origin?

3636

Brief Overview of Mormon DoctrineBrief Overview of Mormon Doctrine

They claim to be Trinitarian, but hold to a They claim to be Trinitarian, but hold to a supreme god (formerly Adam, according to Joseph supreme god (formerly Adam, according to Joseph Smith, but now denied Smith, but now denied ((Kingdom of the CultsKingdom of the Cults, 1985, p. 222), 1985, p. 222), who , who has flesh and bones (see John 4:24; Luke 24:39).has flesh and bones (see John 4:24; Luke 24:39).• ““God himself was once as we are now, and is an exalted God himself was once as we are now, and is an exalted

man…” man…” (Joseph Smith, quoted in (Joseph Smith, quoted in Kingdom of the CultsKingdom of the Cults, 1985, p. 220), 1985, p. 220)

• ““You have got to learn how to be Gods yourselves; to be You have got to learn how to be Gods yourselves; to be kings and priests to God, the same as all Gods have kings and priests to God, the same as all Gods have done before you—namely, by going from a small degree done before you—namely, by going from a small degree to another; from grace to grace, from exaltation to to another; from grace to grace, from exaltation to exaltation, until you are able to sit in glory as doth those exaltation, until you are able to sit in glory as doth those who sit enthroned in everlasting power.” who sit enthroned in everlasting power.” (Joseph Smith, quoted in (Joseph Smith, quoted in Kingdom of the CultsKingdom of the Cults, 1985, p. 221), 1985, p. 221)

• Since they teach that people become gods, they are Since they teach that people become gods, they are actually polytheistic—believing in many gods.actually polytheistic—believing in many gods.

3737

Brief Overview of Mormon DoctrineBrief Overview of Mormon Doctrine

Regarding Jesus’ birth, Regarding Jesus’ birth, • ““In Mormon thinking, as reflected in the In Mormon thinking, as reflected in the

authoritative declaration of one of their authoritative declaration of one of their prophets, our Savior was produced not prophets, our Savior was produced not by a direct act of the Holy Spirit, but by by a direct act of the Holy Spirit, but by actual sexual relations between “an actual sexual relations between “an immortal or resurrected and glorified immortal or resurrected and glorified Father” and Mary—a blasphemous Father” and Mary—a blasphemous view….” view….” (Walter Martin, (Walter Martin, Kingdom of the CultsKingdom of the Cults, 1985, p. 230), 1985, p. 230)

3838

Jehovah-Witness DoctrineJehovah-Witness Doctrine Jesus, in their doctrine, is the archangel Jesus, in their doctrine, is the archangel

Michael. Thus, Jesus is not God the Son, Michael. Thus, Jesus is not God the Son, but the Son of God, an important but the Son of God, an important distinction. distinction. • In John 1:1, they translate “the Word was a In John 1:1, they translate “the Word was a

god,” which is completely unsubstantiated in god,” which is completely unsubstantiated in the Greek.the Greek.

• See John 10:30, Ex. 3:14—John 8:58 on His See John 10:30, Ex. 3:14—John 8:58 on His divinitydivinity

• Is. 44:6, compare with Rev. 1:17-18; 2:8; Rev. Is. 44:6, compare with Rev. 1:17-18; 2:8; Rev. 22:13 (Walter Martin’s insight)22:13 (Walter Martin’s insight)

• Hebrews 1:6Hebrews 1:6 “And again, when God brings his “And again, when God brings his firstborn into the world, he says, "Let all God's firstborn into the world, he says, "Let all God's angels worship him."angels worship him."

3939

Jehovah-Witness DoctrineJehovah-Witness Doctrine

The Atonement:The Atonement:• ““Jesus, no more and no less than a Jesus, no more and no less than a

perfect human, became a ransom that perfect human, became a ransom that compensated exactly for what Adam lostcompensated exactly for what Adam lost—the right to perfect human life on —the right to perfect human life on earth….Thus, when God sent Jesus to earth….Thus, when God sent Jesus to earth as the ransom, he made Jesus to earth as the ransom, he made Jesus to be what would satisfy justice, not an be what would satisfy justice, not an

incarnation, not a god-man, but a incarnation, not a god-man, but a perfect man, ‘lower than angels’”perfect man, ‘lower than angels’”

Should You Believe?Should You Believe?, in Walter Martin, , in Walter Martin, Kingdom of the CultsKingdom of the Cults, p. 103-104., p. 103-104.

4040


The Trinity is denied.The Trinity is denied.• ““Is Jehovah a Trinity—three persons in one Is Jehovah a Trinity—three persons in one

God? No! Jehovah, the Father, is ‘the only true God? No! Jehovah, the Father, is ‘the only true God’ (John 17:3; Mark 12:29). Jesus is His God’ (John 17:3; Mark 12:29). Jesus is His firstborn Son, and he is subject to God (1 Cor. firstborn Son, and he is subject to God (1 Cor. 11:3)…The holy spirit is not a person; it is 11:3)…The holy spirit is not a person; it is God’s active force (Gen. 1:2; Acts 2:18).” God’s active force (Gen. 1:2; Acts 2:18).” What What does God Require of Us? does God Require of Us? In Walter Martin, In Walter Martin, Kingdom of the CultsKingdom of the Cults, p. 101-102., p. 101-102.

The Holy Spirit is God’s “active force.” The Holy Spirit is God’s “active force.” without personality, and isn’t God. without personality, and isn’t God.

4141


A JW has no assurance of salvation, A JW has no assurance of salvation, because they must be faithful until because they must be faithful until the very end. If they don’t continue the very end. If they don’t continue to spread JW doctrine, they aren’t to spread JW doctrine, they aren’t faithful (“publish” or perish)faithful (“publish” or perish)• Share your assurance of salvation with Share your assurance of salvation with

them, with biblical reason why you are them, with biblical reason why you are sure (1 John 5:11-13).sure (1 John 5:11-13).

4242

The OccultThe Occult The occult is calling upon the spirits of Satan to foretell the The occult is calling upon the spirits of Satan to foretell the

future, hurt enemies, and fulfill a mystic need or spiritual future, hurt enemies, and fulfill a mystic need or spiritual need.need.• Forms—voodoo, witchcraft, worship of Satan, astrology, Forms—voodoo, witchcraft, worship of Satan, astrology,

mediumsmediums• Isaiah 47:12-15 Isaiah 47:12-15 12 "Keep on, then, with your 12 "Keep on, then, with your magic spellsmagic spells

and with your many and with your many sorceriessorceries, which you have labored at since , which you have labored at since childhood. Perhaps you will succeed, perhaps you will cause childhood. Perhaps you will succeed, perhaps you will cause terror. 13 All the counsel you have received has only worn you terror. 13 All the counsel you have received has only worn you out! Let your out! Let your astrologersastrologers come forward, those stargazers who come forward, those stargazers who make predictions month by month, let them save you from what make predictions month by month, let them save you from what is coming upon you. 14 Surely they are like stubble; the fire will is coming upon you. 14 Surely they are like stubble; the fire will burn them up. They cannot even save themselves from the burn them up. They cannot even save themselves from the power of the flame. Here are no coals to warm anyone; here is power of the flame. Here are no coals to warm anyone; here is no fire to sit by. 15 That is all they can do for you-- these you no fire to sit by. 15 That is all they can do for you-- these you have labored with and trafficked with since childhood. Each of have labored with and trafficked with since childhood. Each of them goes on in his error; there is not one that can save you. them goes on in his error; there is not one that can save you. NIVNIV

4343

The OccultThe Occult The OT illustrates that those involved make The OT illustrates that those involved make

themselves unclean by seeking out ghosts and themselves unclean by seeking out ghosts and spirits and mediumsspirits and mediums• Leviticus 19:31 Leviticus 19:31 31 "'Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, 31 "'Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists,

for you will be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God.for you will be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God. • Leviticus 20:6 Leviticus 20:6 6 "'I will set my face against the person who turns to 6 "'I will set my face against the person who turns to

mediums and spiritists to prostitute himself by following them, and I mediums and spiritists to prostitute himself by following them, and I will cut him off from his people.will cut him off from his people.

• Leviticus 19:26Leviticus 19:26 Do not practice divination or sorcery. Do not practice divination or sorcery.

1 Timothy 4:1-2 11 Timothy 4:1-2 1 The Spirit clearly says that in The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. 2 deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. 2 Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. NIVhot iron. NIV

4444

Word of Faith MovementWord of Faith Movement

To some degree these teachers teach To some degree these teachers teach that we can make God do what we that we can make God do what we wish. wish. • According to Kenneth Copeland, “as a According to Kenneth Copeland, “as a

believer, you have a right to make believer, you have a right to make commands in the name of Jesus. Each commands in the name of Jesus. Each time you stand on the Word, you are time you stand on the Word, you are commanding God to a certain extent, commanding God to a certain extent, because it is His Word.” because it is His Word.” ((Our Covenant With GodOur Covenant With God, , p. 32, in The Watchman Expositor: Word-Faith Profile, p. 32, in The Watchman Expositor: Word-Faith Profile, www.watchman.org/profile/wordpro.htm, accessed 5/27/05), accessed 5/27/05)

4545

Word of Faith MovementWord of Faith Movement ””Faith is a literal substance ‘that God used Faith is a literal substance ‘that God used

to create the universe, and He transported to create the universe, and He transported that faith with His words.’” that faith with His words.’” (Richard Abanes, “The Word (Richard Abanes, “The Word Faith Movement,” Appendix B in Faith Movement,” Appendix B in Kingdom of the CultsKingdom of the Cults, 1985, by Walter Martin, p. , 1985, by Walter Martin, p. 497).497).

Jesus on earth was human, not divine, and Jesus on earth was human, not divine, and was given the nature of Satan when He was given the nature of Satan when He went to Hell and was “born again” when went to Hell and was “born again” when He arose. He arose. (Richard Abanes, “The Word Faith Movement,” Appendix B in (Richard Abanes, “The Word Faith Movement,” Appendix B in Kingdom of the CultsKingdom of the Cults, 1985, by Walter Martin, p. 499)., 1985, by Walter Martin, p. 499).

Jesus was supposedly wealthy while on Jesus was supposedly wealthy while on earth. Fredrick Price drives a Rolls Royce, earth. Fredrick Price drives a Rolls Royce, because he supposedly follows Jesus.because he supposedly follows Jesus.

4646

Word of Faith MovementWord of Faith Movement

As do the Mormons, they teach that God As do the Mormons, they teach that God has flesh and bones, being about 6’2” has flesh and bones, being about 6’2” talltall• Kenneth Copeland & Morris Cerillo teach this Kenneth Copeland & Morris Cerillo teach this

Clete Hux, “Word-Faith Movement” Clete Hux, “Word-Faith Movement” www.watchman.org/profile/wordpro.htm, , accessed 5/27/05)accessed 5/27/05)

Man is virtually on a par with God. “You Man is virtually on a par with God. “You don’t have a God in you, you are one!” don’t have a God in you, you are one!” Clete Hux, “Word-Faith Movement” wClete Hux, “Word-Faith Movement” www.watchman.org/profile/wordpro.htm, , accessed 5/27/05)accessed 5/27/05)

4747

Is Seventh-Day Adventism (SDA) a Is Seventh-Day Adventism (SDA) a Cult?Cult?

The official doctrinal position of the SDA is that we The official doctrinal position of the SDA is that we are saved by faith in Christ, apart from works.are saved by faith in Christ, apart from works.

Their founder, Ellen G. White, saw a halo around the Their founder, Ellen G. White, saw a halo around the 44thth Commandment (Sabbath) and took that as a sign Commandment (Sabbath) and took that as a sign that Christians should worship on Saturday.that Christians should worship on Saturday.

The primary danger in the SDA is that followers will The primary danger in the SDA is that followers will return to obedience of parts of the Old Covenant.return to obedience of parts of the Old Covenant.• Galatians 3:10Galatians 3:10 “ “All who rely on observing the law are under All who rely on observing the law are under

a curse, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who does not a curse, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law." continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law." {{10 10 Deut. 27:26}Deut. 27:26}

• We cannot simply selectively keep the OT. We observe it all, We cannot simply selectively keep the OT. We observe it all, or we recognize that we’re under the New Covenant, and no or we recognize that we’re under the New Covenant, and no longer under the Old.longer under the Old.

Hebrews 8:13 Hebrews 8:13 13 By calling this covenant "new," he has 13 By calling this covenant "new," he has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and aging will made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear. soon disappear.

4848


Acts 15:5-6Acts 15:5-6 “Then some of the believers who “Then some of the believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees stood up belonged to the party of the Pharisees stood up and said, ‘The Gentiles must be circumcised and and said, ‘The Gentiles must be circumcised and required to obey the law of Moses.’ 6 The required to obey the law of Moses.’ 6 The apostles and elders met to consider this question. apostles and elders met to consider this question.

Their conclusion:Their conclusion:• Acts 15:10-11Acts 15:10-11 “Now then, why do you try to test God by “Now then, why do you try to test God by

putting on the necks of the disciples a yoke [Law] that putting on the necks of the disciples a yoke [Law] that neither we nor our fathers have been able to bear? 11 neither we nor our fathers have been able to bear? 11 No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are." that we are saved, just as they are."

James 2:10James 2:10 “ “For whoever keeps the whole law For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.” breaking all of it.”

4949


Some Sabbatarians teach that Sunday worship is Some Sabbatarians teach that Sunday worship is the “mark of the beast.”the “mark of the beast.”

A Christian can worship God on any day of the A Christian can worship God on any day of the week.week.• Romans 14:5-6Romans 14:5-6 One man considers one day more sacred One man considers one day more sacred

than another; another man considers every day alike. than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. 6 Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. 6 He who regards one day as special, does so to the Lord. He who regards one day as special, does so to the Lord. He who eats meat, eats to the Lord, for he gives thanks He who eats meat, eats to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who abstains, does so to the Lord and to God; and he who abstains, does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God. NIV gives thanks to God. NIV

Colossians 2:16Colossians 2:16 “ “Therefore do not let anyone Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day.”celebration or a Sabbath day.”

5050

Websites “Word of Faith” Websites “Word of Faith” Movement Movement

http://www.ministrywatch.com/mw2.1/pdf/Reflections_WordFaith.pdf (this article provided references below) (this article provided references below)

http://www.watchman.org/profile/wordpro.htm Profile of the World of Faith Movement by Clete Profile of the World of Faith Movement by Clete HuxHux

http://www.watchman.org/reltop/charisma.htm Overview of their theologyOverview of their theology

http://www.biblebb.com/files/WRDFAITH.HTM Many quotationsMany quotations

http://www.letusreason.org/Wf29.htm Anointing Anointing and the “yoke”and the “yoke”

http://www.watchman.org/reltop/rprtldie.htm The The atonement and Word of Faithatonement and Word of Faith

5151

Websites “Word of Faith” Websites “Word of Faith” Movement Movement

http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/cri/cri-jrnl/web/crj0063a.html Christian Research Journal H. Hanegraaff, Faith in Christian Research Journal H. Hanegraaff, Faith in FaithFaith

http://www.letusreason.org/Pent40.htm The “New” The “New” anointinganointing

http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/cri/cri-jrnl/crj0118a.txt Origins of movement and quotes of current Origins of movement and quotes of current leadersleaders

http://home.computer.net/~cya/cy00052.html errors from Word of Faith teacherserrors from Word of Faith teachers

5252

The Internet and CultsThe Internet and Cults Excellent sites exist for the study of the world’s Excellent sites exist for the study of the world’s

religions and cults. Articles on specific topics can religions and cults. Articles on specific topics can be printed at will, such that access to books on be printed at will, such that access to books on religions and cults, while valuable, isn’t religions and cults, while valuable, isn’t necessary.necessary.

Searches can be run on Google for specific, even Searches can be run on Google for specific, even obscure cults—on sites that may be posted by obscure cults—on sites that may be posted by cult members themselves.cult members themselves.

What is important then, is to be able to identify a What is important then, is to be able to identify a cult, which will be our focus. We can then cult, which will be our focus. We can then research it or at least warn the churchresearch it or at least warn the church

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General Cult Information SitesGeneral Cult Information Sites

Apologetics Index Apologetics Index www.apologeticsindex.org • An excellent reference for world religions, sects An excellent reference for world religions, sects

& cults& cults Let Us Reason Info on cults and world Let Us Reason Info on cults and world

religions religions www.letusreason.org/Islamdir.htm International Cultic Studies Assoc. International Cultic Studies Assoc.

http://www.csj.org/ Watchman Fellowship Watchman Fellowship www.watchman.org Rick Ross Institute Rick Ross Institute www.rickross.com

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More General Cults Sites More General Cults Sites

Site based upon the work of cults expert, Site based upon the work of cults expert, the late Dr. Walter Martinthe late Dr. Walter Martin• www.waltermartin.orgwww.waltermartin.org

John AnkerbergJohn Ankerberg• www.ankerberg.com

Christian Research InstituteChristian Research Institute• www.equip.org

Cults on Campus Cults on Campus www.cultsoncampus.com Religion News Religion News www.religionnewsblog.com

Current news articles relating to religionCurrent news articles relating to religion

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Websites for Cult InformationWebsites for Cult Information Cults of Christianity Cults of Christianity www.religion-cults.com Cult Frequently Asked Questions Cult Frequently Asked Questions www.cultfaq.org Spiritual Counterfeit Project Spiritual Counterfeit Project www.scp-inc.org

Information about cults the occult, and New Age Information about cults the occult, and New Age relgionsrelgions

Discernment Discernment www.discernment.org Focus upon Focus upon false teaching, including the Word of Faith false teaching, including the Word of Faith movementmovement

Probe Ministries Studies on cults and religions Probe Ministries Studies on cults and religions http://www.probe.org/menus/wp-cults.html

Secularism Secularism www.infidels.org Posted by those who Posted by those who don’t believe in God, but gives their argumentsdon’t believe in God, but gives their arguments

CultWatch CultWatch www.cultwatch.com World religions World religions and cultsand cults

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Websites on MormonismWebsites on Mormonism

Jerald & Sandra Tanner are experts on Jerald & Sandra Tanner are experts on MormonismMormonism• www.utlm.org an excellent sitean excellent site

Counterfeit gospel of MormonismCounterfeit gospel of Mormonism• www.answeringlds.org/miscCounterfeitGospel.h

tml

www.concernedchristians.org Links to sites critiquing MormonismLinks to sites critiquing Mormonism

• www.latterdaylampoon.com Utah Lighthouse MinistryUtah Lighthouse Ministry

• www.utlm.orgwww.utlm.org

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Websites on Jehovah-WitnessesWebsites on Jehovah-Witnesses

www.waltermartin.org www.watchtowernews.org many articleswww.watchtowernews.org many articles For JW converts For JW converts

• www.bible.ca/indexJws.htm www.bible.ca/indexJws.htm www.freeminds.org has a JW journal www.freeminds.org has a JW journal How to witness to a JWHow to witness to a JW

• www.chick.org/bc/1985/witnesstojw.asp www.chick.org/bc/1985/witnesstojw.asp www.fishthe.net/pages/Discernment_of_Cults/www.fishthe.net/pages/Discernment_of_Cults/

Jehovahs_Witnesses Jehovahs_Witnesses packed with informationpacked with information

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Websites on IslamWebsites on Islam Answering Islam Great site. With links to many Answering Islam Great site. With links to many

other sites helping Christians to deal with Islam other sites helping Christians to deal with Islam www.answeringislam.org www.answeringislam.org

Let Us Reason www.letusreason.org/Islamdir.htm Let Us Reason www.letusreason.org/Islamdir.htm Religion Research Institute Articles on Islam Religion Research Institute Articles on Islam

http://religionresearchinstitute.org http://religionresearchinstitute.org Islamic Institute http://islaminstitut.de/english/ Islamic Institute http://islaminstitut.de/english/ Light of Life Islam from Christian perspective Light of Life Islam from Christian perspective

http://light-of-life.com http://light-of-life.com TruthNet Islam, world religions and cults TruthNet Islam, world religions and cults

www.truthnet.org/islam www.truthnet.org/islam

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Websites on African religionsWebsites on African religions West African religious practices from 500-1590 AD West African religious practices from 500-1590 AD

www.bookrags.com/samphist/sub4.htmlwww.bookrags.com/samphist/sub4.html African-derived religions Many links African-derived religions Many links

http://sparta.rice.edu/~maryc/AfroCuban.html http://sparta.rice.edu/~maryc/AfroCuban.html Apologetics Index –enter cult name Apologetics Index –enter cult name

www.apologeticsindex.org www.apologeticsindex.org South African Missiological Society African Independent South African Missiological Society African Independent

Churches Churches www.geocities.com/Athens/Parthenon/8409/index1.htm www.geocities.com/Athens/Parthenon/8409/index1.htm

Dictionary of African Christian Biography Search for African Dictionary of African Christian Biography Search for African religious leaders by country www.dacb.org/ religious leaders by country www.dacb.org/

MissionlaliaMissionlalia (missions journal) articles on African religion (missions journal) articles on African religion www.geocities.com/Athens/Parthenon/8409/articles.htm www.geocities.com/Athens/Parthenon/8409/articles.htm

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African religion sitesAfrican religion sites

African religions weblist African religions weblist http://members.aol.com/porchfour/religion/africanhttp://members.aol.com/porchfour/religion/african.htm .htm

African Traditional Religion articles African Traditional Religion articles www.afrikaworld.net/afrel/ www.afrikaworld.net/afrel/

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Christians Know Their Savior, and Christians Know Their Savior, and He Will Save and Preserve ThemHe Will Save and Preserve Them

John 10:24-28 John 10:24-28 24 The Jews gathered 24 The Jews gathered around him, saying, "How long will you around him, saying, "How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, {{24 24 Or Messiah} tell us plainly." 25 Jesus Or Messiah} tell us plainly." 25 Jesus answered, "I did tell you, but you do not answered, "I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father's believe. The miracles I do in my Father's name speak for me, 26 but you do not name speak for me, 26 but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. 27 believe because you are not my sheep. 27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.can snatch them out of my hand.

An Introduction to Cults

Spiritual

Transcript of An Introduction to Cults