Some modern day religions claim to be Christians...but are they really? Go through this series with a small group or mentor, and let's take a closer look at some religions that may actually be cultish.
--
The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.
Donate Now
--
In this series: The Big Three Christian Cults (disclaimer #2)
- Mormonism (17 million)
- Jehovah’s Witnesses (8 million)
- Seventh Day Adventists (22 million) - Is it or is it not a cult? Debated for 70 years
What is a Cult?
A Clear Explanation of the Term "Cult"
Define "cult" in a religious context:
- Groups that claim to be Christian but deviate significantly from core biblical doctrine.
- Disclaimer: Not every person who is in these groups aligns with everything we are going to cover
How do cults start?
- “Many cults begin with a charismatic leader or group claiming special revelation or insight that goes beyond or distorts the Bible. They often address unmet spiritual or emotional needs, offering certainty in confusing times or claiming to restore ‘lost truths.’ Over time, they develop exclusive doctrines, emphasize obedience to their authority, and create a sense of dependency by isolating followers from outside perspectives. The common thread is a departure from the core gospel of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, replacing it with human authority, works-based salvation, or extra-biblical teachings.”
- Second Great Awakening, burnt over district, restorationism
- Cane ridge revival 1801
- Back to basic Christianity
- End Times fervor
- 1844
- If not careful we see this happening on YouTube today.
Signs You’re in a Cult (Allen Asks)
Explain that any deviation from these essentials leads to a distorted or false version of Christianity.
So what are some of the essentials?
Distortion of Scripture & Sound Doctrine
- Sufficiency of Scripture (Sola Scriptura):
- The group uses its own interpretation of the Bible or an altered version of Scripture to fit its teachings.
- The authority and sufficiency of Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
- Extra-biblical writings or revelations are often elevated to the same level as, or higher than, the Bible.
- Example: Jehovah’s Witnesses’ New World Translation and Mormonism’s Book of Mormon.
Deity of Christ
- The group teaches a view of the deity of Christ that diverges from the traditional Christian view of Jesus being fully human and fully divine
Salvation by Works
- The group teaches that salvation is earned through strict adherence to their specific rules, laws, or practices.
- Grace and faith in Christ alone are downplayed or...
