When we think of the term “cult,” we envision groups that worship Satan, engage in demonology, perform animal sacrifices, or participate in pagan ceremonies like Druidism or witchcraft. Nevertheless, a cult is not strictly defined by these activities. In its broadest definition, a cult refers to a religious organization with specific rituals and practices unique to them. Usually, a cult is characterized as an unorthodox faction whose followers alter the original teachings of the Christian faith. A cult consists of a religious collective that rejects one or more core principles of biblical truth. It is a group that advocates beliefs that, if accepted, would prevent a person from salvation. A cult purports to belong to true religion while denying crucial truths found in Scripture. Keeping this in mind, a Christian cult typically rejects one or more fundamental tenets of Christianity while still asserting their Christian identity. They often maintain that they alone possess the truth and are the only genuine church on the planet. Jehovah’s Witnesses and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly referred to as Mormons, are two examples of such cults.
Two prevalent beliefs among Christian cults are that Jesus Christ is not God and that salvation cannot be attained solely through faith. Disbelieving in the divinity of Christ implies that His crucifixion does not adequately meet the requirements to pay for humanity’s sins. Additionally, rejecting the idea of salvation through faith alone leads to the belief that salvation is earned through personal actions and efforts. In the early Church, the apostles addressed the problem of such cults. John confronted Gnostic teachings in 1 John 4:1-3. The critical criteria for sound doctrine outlined in John’s letter was the assertion that “Jesus Christ has come in the flesh” (v2), which directly opposes the Gnostic heresy that claimed Christ did not come in the flesh.
Both Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses reject the divinity of Christ and the concept of salvation through faith alone. While they do share some beliefs with traditional Christian teachings, their denial of Christ’s divinity and their emphasis on salvation through works classify them as a cult. As Christians, we should hope and pray that those entangled in various cults around the world will recognise the mistakes of their beliefs, understand the truth of the Bible, and accept the authentic Gospel of Christ.
What is the difference between a cult and sect?
The term “sect” is derived from the Latin word “secta,” which translates to “school of thought.” It is a subjective expression that can refer to a religious belief or a dissenting subgroup. At times, it carries a negative connotation as mentioned in 2 Peter 2:1. Sects exist within numerous global religions. For instance, we could categorize Baptists, Lutherans, Presbyterians, Methodists, and Anglicans as sects or divisions of the Christian Church.
The term “cult” typically has a negative implication. There are certain standards used to recognize a cult. A cult isn’t exclusively religious; it can also be commercial or secular. Cults aim to manage the behaviours and thoughts of their followers. An additional significant aspect of a cult is the information made available to its members. Regarding behaviour management, an individual’s social contacts, living situations, diet, attire, and finances are tightly regulated. For thought regulation, cult leaders assert their dominance over the language and expressions of their followers, prohibiting any criticism of leaders and their doctrines. Controlling information is crucial for cults as well. Leaders intentionally suppress and misrepresent facts, limiting access to alternative viewpoints. This inevitably leads to emotional manipulation and reliance on the cult. Many members of cults experience a strong sense of guilt and fear.
Since many individuals fail to promptly identify cults and often mix them up with sects or offshoots, it’s important to take inspiration from the Bereans mentioned in Acts 17:11: “Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.” Always investigate the beliefs and practices of a group before fully engaging with it. Look for any signs or indications of controlling behaviour within that organization. If anything feels off, refrain from participating.
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