Let’s talk about cults.
Last year, I did an Instagram Live with my friends about our experience with a cult. This organization called “SCJ” pursued me and my best friend for years. We were never initiated into the “church”, but what we learned was shocking. It opened our eyes to Satan’s insidious plans for God’s kids.
The truth of the matter is this: any ministry or church that does not have Jesus Christ at the center, is either a cult or dangerously close to cultic practices. Jesus is the basis and foundation of our faith, but what does that mean? It means that Jesus’ sacrifice is the only atonement for our sins. It means that Jesus’ philosophy focuses on our inner love and devotion to God and His people. The moment that your “works” become your salvation, you are in error. The moment that another person becomes the foundation for your faith, you are in error. The moment that things (crystals, “healing rituals”, tarot cards etc) become the basis for your faith and devotion, you are in error. We can ONLY come to salvation by faith through the Lord’s grace. Our salvation is a free GIFT given to us when Jesus died on the cross for our sins. It that cannot be earned by our own acts, rituals, or relationships with man.
But why are cults enticing? If you watch true crime shows and cult documentaries (like I do), it can seem like lunacy. “How do people get there?” It’s more common than we think- in fact, cults are popping up everywhere! The truth is, cults are good at a few things:
Cults are great at fostering a sense of (false) community: Most cults/cultic organizations start off with lots of opportunities to bond, share, and fellowship. They get together frequently, their leaders are attentive and (seem) extremely interested in your personal growth and potential. While a lot of real Christian churches have errored in turning their focus to production value and marketing content, cults are drawing people towards camaraderie. But here’s the gag: THE COMMUNITY IS FALSE because the underlying motivator is typically control, manipulation, or fear. Cult members are usually intimidated into gathering new converts, terrified to leave, or dependent on the leader/group for stability (financial, emotional, etc). Members can be intimidated/pressured to leave their jobs, move closer to the church, or spend all of their time at the church. ** This is antithetical Jesus’ doctrine. The church is meant to be a community of people learning, growing and seeking after JESUS. Salvation is a free gift- and meant to be shared & received by our own free will. Jesus is looking for disciples, not slaves.
Cults are great at molding enemy’s for their congregants: One of the main tactics of cults are isolation. They’ll try to make you believe that everyone is “out to get you”. You’ll oftentimes see cult members leaving their families or bad-mouthing members who leave their specific “church”. Cult leaders love that type of culture… it allows insecure or people-pleasing members to stay out of fear of rejection. The idea is that everyone is an enemy except the leader and people of this church. **Once again, directly opposed to the teachings of the Bible. Our MAIN devotion and loyalty is to Jesus. In regards to other people being enemies, Ephesians 6 says, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Our enemy is Satan. While he may influence and use people on earth, we understand that our main gripe is with the evil one.
Cults are great at twisting God’s word: Cults LOVE to take God’s word out of context. They’ll cherry pick scriptures. They’ll misinterpret and/or use it to condemn the members. Cult leaders will say things that are NOT in the Bible to test a few things: One, they want to test their congregants biblical literacy (or lack thereof). Two, they want to know how malleable you really are when it comes to your values- do you push back when something seems “off”? Or do you go with the flow out of fear of rocking the boat? The truth is… Satan knows scripture too. In the Wilderness, he tried to tempt Jesus to sin using scripture (Matthew 4/Luke 4) ! It’s important that we study the Bible for ourselves too.
CULTS LOVE CELEBRITY: In cultic organizations, JESUS can never be the star. A lot of the time, an authority figure will prop himself (or herself) into the center of the doctrine and church discourse. A lot of cult leaders will imply and behave as if they are the SOLE way to God. They center themselves so congregants believe that God hears them more, serves their vision, and ultimately…loves them most. In some cultic spaces, leaders require their congregants to ask permission to make common decisions- purchase a home, take a new job, or date. Honestly, your 2025, mega-church cultic leaders are so insulated and self-obsessed that they have little interest in their congregants lives (as long as they pump their money and adoration to the leader, that’s all that matters). We are to honor our leaders, but not more than God.** the Bible says that God is not a respecter of persons- He isn’t impressed by pomp and earthly influence. He doesn’t reserve His love for a select few. All of God’s kids have access to the Father. Hebrews says, “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
If you’re concerned about the health and validity of your church, take time to invite Jesus in. Take a few weeks away from that group or organization- fast and pray. Read the Bible- test the word up against the sermons & messages. Read about the character and traits of God’s church and His anointed leaders. Invite trusted (and wise) loved ones into the conversation. I also encourage you to read the scriptures I provided in context… read the whole chapter. Test…even what I’ve said. Bring it all under the full submission to God.
I am praying for you all. I am praying that God continues to protect and cover your soul. I pray that God will give you eyes to see and ears to hear- that He’d fine tune your discernment and wisdom. I love you!
