Defender of the Faith – Vol. 1
This study, Defender of the Faith, is designed to recognize and deprogram individuals from cults, including certain Christian-identifying groups. Rooted in John 8:32, the core message is that freedom comes from knowing and following the pure doctrine of Christ as revealed solely in Scripture. Any addition—man-made doctrines or extra-biblical revelations—creates "another gospel" and leads to deception.
22 Signs of a Cult
Bern identifies 22 characteristics common to cults, whether non-Christian, pseudo-Christian, or even within accepted denominations:
- Exclusive, unscriptural doctrines: Unique teachings not found in the Bible.
- Salvation by works: Grace is supplemented with human effort.
- Uncertain eternal future: Members lack assurance of salvation.
- Extra-biblical authority: Truth claimed from sources outside Scripture.
- Authoritarian leadership: Leaders assume roles meant for the Holy Spirit.
- False teachings accepted as truth.
- Syncretism: Mixing pagan elements with Christian worship.
- Scripture manipulation: Twisting verses to support specific beliefs.
- Mind control: Fear-based or doctrinal manipulation.
- Absurd lies taught as truth.
- Exploitation of members.
- Blind submission to human authority.
- Another gospel: A distorted salvation message.
- Religious spirit: Legalism disguised as holiness.
- Antichrist spirit: Denying Christ’s true nature.
- Pharisaical spirit: Overemphasis on outward law.
- Jezebel spirit: Manipulative control.
- Control spirit: Excessive control over members’ lives.
- Spirit of error: Leading others from biblical truth.
- Nicolaitanism: Clergy-layperson divide and domination.
- Fear-based control.
- Resistance to the Holy Spirit.
Understanding Those in Cults
To effectively help someone out of a cult, it’s essential to understand their mindset:
- Lack of "Sola Scriptura": They don't view Scripture as the final authority.
- Reliance on human interpretation: Trusting doctrines about God over God’s word itself.
- Ingrained beliefs: Lifelong teachings make them resistant to new ideas.
- Deep investment: Their identity or career may be tied to the group.
- Tactics to avoid truth: They may redefine terms, dismiss Scripture, or claim subjective interpretation.
- Brainwashing: Indoctrination is gradual, persistent, and difficult to undo.
- Pre-programmed responses: Members are trained to deflect objections instinctively.
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