PEOPLE HAPHAZARDLY throw around the word “cult” when it comes to certain churches. I have heard it said about our church as well as a few other churches in our area, two different churches in Iowa, a church in Tennessee, two churches in California and a myriad of others I know but cannot remember off the top of my head. I have decided that I like it.
One dictionary defines “cult” as: “a relatively small group of people having religious beliefs or practices regarded by others as strange or sinister.” Sounds like that should be the definition of every church that is preaching the whole counsel and Word of God, the true gospel of Jesus Christ and that the manifestation of the gifts of the Holy Spirit are for today.
“And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.” Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.
So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.”
Acts 2:40-47 NKJV
The following came up in my memories from around six years ago. I did not write it, a retired pastor and friend wrote it, Dr. Kevin Baird:
“21st Century definitions of “cult” I have encountered…
1. A church that uses biblical terminology.
2. A church which demonstrates any zeal or passion for God.
3. A church which disciples believers to obey the Bible.
4. A church which expects consistent fellowship and connection from its members.
5. A church which teaches loyalty and covenant to God and one another.
6. A church which functions under spiritual authority.
7. A church which disciplines its members.
8. A church which teaches and practices the tithe.
9. A church which is demonstrative in its worship.
10. A church which believes and anticipates the gifts of the Spirit and present ministry of the Holy Spirit.”
Apparently, the NT church was considered a “sect”, by the surrounding culture; otherwise known as a “cult”: “For we have found this man (Paul) a plague, a creator of dissension among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes.” (Acts 24:5) It’s crazy to me that the people who call us a cult are typically other Christians. This to me is a sure sign of end-time rebellion and apostasy. Many are departing from Biblical and historical Christianity.
“Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron,”
I Timothy 4:1-2 NKJV
Now listen up and don’t be foolish. If a pastor/leader tells you to “drink this kool-aid” or to “divorce your wife for another man’s wife” (these are real stories of cult leaders), then by all means run far away as fast as you can. However, this is extremely rare. If you were truly sucked into a cult, I am sorry. Seek the Lord for your healing. But I have found that there is much rebellion in the house of God and a church will be called a cult if you are told to obey your spiritual authority.
This is perhaps the main reason a church gets labeled a cult- the rebellious people begin to call the pastor controlling. As a good friend and pastor so eloquently stated, “if I was controlling, you would be the first person I would control. I would make you treat your wife better. I would make you show up to church and lead your family in the things of God”. A pastor who tells you to obey God’s Word is not controlling. You are rebellious. Obedience to authority is Biblical. Not only is it Biblical, submission to authority is the place of security and protection.
“Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.” (Heb 13:17) There’s not many churches left that are preaching the truth. At my last statistical checking, the churches in America staying true to the above standards are around 15%; could be less depending on which study you examine. You better find yourself in one of these cults, I mean God-fearing, Scripture honoring, Holy Spirit filled, churches.
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