Distinguishing Marks of a Cult

Several people in my church have asked me lately about cults. Some of the questions have been about specific and well-known cults, while other questions have been more general.

In addition, I recently had a conversation with another pastor here in Sterling who has had similar questions asked of him. As a result of that conversation, he and I, each of whom writes for one of our two local newspapers, decided to each write a newspaper article about the topic, “What are some distinguishing marks of a cult?”

First, in considering the question, it’s important to be clear about what we mean by the word “cult.” Orthodox Christianity stands upon the exclusive assertion of Jesus Himself: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). Indeed, in terms of all that is needed for salvation, “the truth is in Jesus” (Ephesians 4:21).

In contradistinction to these claims, by definition a cult is any religious system that asserts its so-called “truth” comes from somewhere other than, or in addition to, Holy Scripture; or from someone other than, or in addition to, Jesus Christ. Well-organized cults typically have their own book or set of books, usually written by the founder. Even though some cults read the Bible or admire it as an inspired book, a key element of a cult is that it has another “scripture” that contains its identifying doctrines.

Another common mark of a cult is the nature of its leadership. Cult leaders allow no questioning of their teaching, claiming absolute adherence at every point of doctrine. They must be viewed by their followers as infallible interpreters of truth. Indeed, they typically do not allow their followers to receive any form of teaching, or even fellowship, from any source outside the cult itself.

By virtue of the unquestioning loyalty cult leaders require, they make uncanny demands upon their followers. They may command them to sell property, change jobs, relocate, or sever relationships with friends and families. In some cases, they may even direct their married followers to divorce or even exchange their spouses. Mind you, these are not voluntary moves the followers make, but requirements imposed by the leaders as a condition of remaining in the group.

Perhaps the two clearest marks of cults are their doctrine of salvation and their teachings about the person of Jesus Christ. Holy Scripture indicates that Jesus claimed to be the eternal Son of God and the only way to salvation. His actions so clearly supported His claims that He could boldly state, “The works I do in My Father’s name bear witness of Me” (John10:25; see also verses 37-38). Orthodox Christianity has always asserted that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, revealed in Holy Scripture alone, for God’s glory alone.

By contrast, even though cults may use biblical vocabulary, talk about Jesus, and even admire Him and His teachings, they always assert that the way of salvation requires something else or something more. The salvation message that cults preach always involves obedience to a human leader, or to a set of duties and obligations. For cults, Jesus is never enough.

It is vital for you, Christian, that you know the truth. There is plenty of deception going around in our world. Don’t be taken in. Know the truth. Know Christ. Know His Word. The best way to avoid the influence of cults is to know the Word and walk in It.