Between cult and church: Their essential features

By Oyewole Sarumi PhD

The term “cult” is often associated with extreme groups, but sometimes, cult-like behavior can infiltrate religious organizations, masquerading as churches. From my experience as a pastor and theological teacher for the past four decades and still counting,

I have discovered that some of churches in Africa and elsewhere seem to have imbibed some cult-like characteristics and are more or less using religious covering to deceive their followers.

Also having studied comparative religion extensively, I have come to the conclusion to add my voice the few people who have earlier warned on this and sound the alarm on how most of our churches today are turning into a cult-like religious organisation as we emphasise more on commitment to the church ethos, doctrines etc. rather than Christ Jesus.

Also, we have noticed that most churches are now ‘gated’ in such a way that we are exclusive and sufficient on our own without others graces that God has strategically located in other denominations.

My take is that it is healthy for Christian groups to spend time with those outside of their own church for biblical training and instruction. This is a healthy way to learn from other churches and (hopefully) to share our wisdom with others, too.

The terms “cult” and “church” cannot be used interchangeably because they represent distinct entities with differing characteristics and objectives. While both involve groups of people sharing common beliefs and practices, the lines between them seems to become blurred nowadays due to the excessive control been exercised by most church leaders leading to confusion and misconceptions amongst congregants.

Secular author Margaret Thaler Singer estimates that in the last two decades roughly 20 million Americans have been involved in a cult.  Christian cult expert Ron Rhodes agrees with this estimate, claiming that this has been a 3,000 percent increase over the last 150 years. Rhodes writes, “It is for good reason that every book in the New Testament except Philemon has something to say about false teachers, false prophets, false gospels, or heresies.

Rochford asked these questions rhetorically, but they are both incisive and pungent considering what our churches are becoming today: Is Christianity just one big cult, or is it possible to differentiate Christianity from cultic practice? How are high commitment churches different from cults, and how do we consistently distinguish between the two?

The question I desire that readers ask themselves after reading this piece are: Is my church a cult? Can I see any traits of cult-like indices based on the characterisation stated hereafter in my church? An objective, discerning and critical thinking mind is required to put this information into proper perspective.

This article highlights key performance indicators (KPIs) that can help you identify whether a church is functioning more like a cult. It is vital to approach this piece with discernment as you read, especially in religious contexts where leaders are using spiritual authority for control rather than genuine guidance.

THE MEANING OF CULT

A cult is a group of people who follow a leader or set of beliefs that are considered unconventional or extreme by mainstream society. Cults often exhibit characteristics such as:

1. Charismatic leadership: A central figure who exerts significant control over members.
2. Isolation: Members may be encouraged to cut ties with family and friends outside the group.
3. Manipulation and control: Tactics used to influence members’ thoughts and behaviours.
4. Unconventional beliefs: Doctrines that are often considered deviant or heretical.
5. Financial exploitation: Members may be pressured to donate large sums of money or give up their assets.
6. Social isolation: Members may be discouraged from interacting with people outside the group.
7. Fear of leaving: Members may be threatened or manipulated to prevent them from leaving.

While Christians can identify cults based on what they believe (i.e. theological definition), they can also identify them on how they behave (i.e. sociological definition). In her famous work Cults in our Midst (2003), cult expert Margaret Thaler Singer offers several common sociological characteristics within every cult: (1) leader, (2) structure, (3) thought reform, (4) healthy dissent and disagreement, (5) excluding members from friends and family, and (6) promoting secrecy with information. (Rochford, n.d.)

THE KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS THAT Characterise CULT-LIKE CHURCH

From the above, we now have an understanding about cult and the exhibits that characterised the group. In this section, I intend to devout much of this article to examine about 11 KPIs that characterise cult-like church and be openminded to compare this information with your experiences in our various churches today.

1. The Pastor or Ministry Leader is Infallible and Above Question

A key sign of cult-like behavior within a ministry is when the leader, typically the pastor or head of the organization, assumes an infallible position of authority and is perceived as beyond reproach. In such environments, questioning or criticizing the leader is strictly discouraged, even when legitimate concerns are raised based on biblical principles. This refusal to tolerate dissent is symptomatic of a lack of sound doctrinal grounding, as genuine Christian leadership embraces accountability and transparency.

In cult-like settings, any disagreement with leadership is often turned against the individual, who is then made to feel that their concerns are unwarranted or that they lack submission to authority. Leaders in these environments deflect criticism by making the issue about the follower’s supposed disobedience, rather than addressing the substance of the critique. In some instance, they even quote Psa.105:15 which says “Do not touch My anointed! Do no harm to My prophets” to cow such individual into submission. It is obvious that this is a misuse of the scripture to create fear and instil obedience by compulsion. This creates an atmosphere where the leader is unapproachable, unaccountable, and resistant to constructive feedback—characteristics that are in direct opposition to biblical teachings on humility and repentance.

Moreover, such leaders may manipulate scripture to support their personal visions or “revelations,” often placing their subjective experiences on par with, or above, the authority of the Bible. This distorts the teachings of the gospel and leads to the elevation of the leader’s ego, rather than a focus on Christ-cantered growth and service. Ministries that operate in this way are disconnected from the true gospel and are marked by authoritarian control and the suppression of genuine spiritual inquiry.

2. The Church or Ministry Promotes Exclusivity and Elitism

Another red flag of a cult-like ministry is the promotion of exclusivity or elitism, where the church or leader claims to possess unique access to divine truth or salvation. In such congregation, you are likely to hear phrases like “The God of ____________ (insert name of any of the church leader you know here) is with me or will fight for me.” Unlike healthy Christian organizations, which recognize that faith in Christ as the foundation of salvation and allow for the freedom to worship in different settings, cults insist that salvation or success can only be achieved through continued membership in their specific group and obeisance to the leaders.

This form of exclusivism creates a fear-based control over members, who are often told that leaving the church or questioning its authority will result in spiritual condemnation or eternal damnation and rejection. Members may be threatened with so-called “messages from the Lord,” or subjected to other forms of psychological pressure, to keep them loyal to the church organization. This approach manipulates members’ faith and conscience, distorting the true message of the gospel, which emphasizes grace, freedom in Christ, and the global body of believers.

In addition to promoting exclusivity, cult-like ministries may further elevate certain members—often the leader’s family or inner circle—as more spiritually enlightened or predestined for rapture, while others are deemed unworthy unless they meet increasingly unattainable standards, which are basically “works”. These dynamics erode the faith of ordinary members, who constantly strive to prove their worth, while a select few are glorified as spiritually superior. Over time, this creates a toxic environment of spiritual inequality, with the majority feeling inadequate and alienated from the true rest found in Jesus’ finished work.

Furthermore, exclusivism is often used as a tool to exploit members for financial gain, free labour, and personal loyalty. The ministry may pressure members to contribute excessive amounts of money, time, and effort, all under the guise of supporting a “divine mission.” Most of these cult-like ministries thrive on the labour of bi-vocational staffers who contributes their sweat and are still treated as nonentities.  Legitimate concerns about these demands are met with condemnation, and dissenters are labelled as unfaithful. A genuine ministry, in contrast, should encourage voluntary giving, balanced involvement, and spiritual growth without coercion or manipulation, while promotion should be based on grace and anointing, not how fat you pocket or giving is to the group.

3. Use of Fear and Intimidation

Another mark of cult-like ministries is the pervasive use of fear and intimidation to control followers. Cult leaders may equate disagreement with them as rebellion against God, manipulating members into submission by instilling fear of divine retribution. This misuse of authority is contrary to the biblical teaching that “God has not given us a spirit of fear” (2 Timothy 1:7). Leaders in such environments may claim divine authority over all aspects of their followers’ lives and sometime uses “prophesies or a word from the Lord” to reinforce their control.

This fear-based approach often involves guilt and scare tactics. For example, members may be told that financial struggles are due to their failure to give more to the ministry or not paying their tithe, or that success at work is directly tied to their obedience in supporting the organization. Leaders may use public shaming as a tool of control, spreading false accusations or embellishing stories about those who raise legitimate concerns. This serves as a warning to others not to question leadership.

In extreme cases, cult leaders will bypass the biblical process of conflict resolution, acting as judge and jury without the presence of impartial witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15; Matthew 18:15-17). In some cult-like churches, it is those who come first to report a situation that is judged right, even though they are the culprit. Such behavior contradicts the example of true Christian leadership, which should be grounded in humility, transparency, and a willingness to submit to God’s Word and listen to all sides before passing judgement. Instead of resolving disputes in a godly manner, these leaders thrive on intimidation and power, leaving members spiritually stifled and fearful of questioning authority.

4. Lack of Accountability for Leadership

Another critical indicator of a cult-like ministry is the absence of accountability for its leadership. Cult leaders often surround themselves with family members or close friends and sycophantic associates who function as puppets, rather than mature elders who provide checks and balances. In some churches, leaders are deified and infallible, hence cannot be questioned. Biblical church structure, as seen in the New Testament, emphasizes the role of elders in overseeing the congregation and holding leaders accountable (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5). Many of our churches board of trustees are constituted or chosen by the founder or overseer, so most don’t have the spine to challenge or override the interest or desire of such leaders as they bow to their wills most often to the detriment of the overall ministry interests. When leaders refuse to allow an independent and mature board of elders, they often operate with unchecked authority, leading to abuses of power.

Healthy ministry is built on free will, with members serving voluntarily out of love for God. Cult-like ministries, however, manipulate or coerce members into service, treating them more like slaves than willing servants of Christ. A lack of accountability can also lead to corruption as ministries grow in influence or financial power. Leaders may begin with a genuine mission, but over time, pride, fame, or wealth may cause them to reject correction, leading to a dangerous concentration of power.

Such leaders may claim that their ministry, website, or social media channels are “the Lord’s,” but they refuse to allow any scrutiny of their teachings or practices and shut down opposing or dissenting voices. This kind of idolatry turns a ministry that once served God into the personal empire of the leader, whose absolute authority goes unquestioned. This lack of accountability is a dangerous sign that the ministry has veered into cult-like behaviour.

5. Suppression of Skepticism and Discouragement of Critical and Creative Thinking

Cults typically suppress critical/creative thinking and discourage any form of skepticism. In a healthy church, questions and doubts are addressed openly, with an invitation to examine teachings against Scripture. However, in cult-like ministries, any questioning is framed as “persecution” or rebellion, and dissenters are often not promoted, given leadership position, set aside, ostracized or publicly condemned. Leaders may use manipulative tactics, such as claiming to receive visions from God that condemn members who raise such concerns.

In such environments, members are isolated from outside influences and expected to accept the leader’s teachings without question. If anyone dares to challenge the doctrine or practices, they are labelled as disobedient or unfaithful. This creates a culture of fear, where members are too afraid to think critically or test the spirits, as Scripture commands (1 Thessalonians 5:21; 1 John 4:1).

True Christian faith encourages believers to search the Scriptures and “reason together” (Isaiah 1:18), advancing an environment where open dialogue and critical examination of teachings are welcomed. Cults, by contrast, thrive on control and demand unquestioning loyalty, leading followers into spiritual bondage which many members are not aware of.

6. Shame as a Tool for Control and Punishment

Cult leaders often manipulate followers through emotional tactics, making them feel special or chosen, yet simultaneously diminishing their self-worth and independence. By asserting, “I taught you” or “If it were not for me,” leaders take credit for personal growth while encouraging a sense of dependency. This emotional manipulation compels followers to seek validation from the leader rather than relying on personal or spiritual growth.

Moreover, cult leaders will often resort to controlling actions through shame. Strict and sometimes arbitrary demands, such as excessive prayers, fasting, or financial contributions, are imposed under the guise of spiritual growth. It is no more “the just shall live by faith”, but “the just shall live by works!” These practices lead followers into forced compliance, disregarding their personal boundaries and decision-making capacities. If members do not comply or question the leader, the consequences range from public shaming to accusations of disobedience, or you are under the influence of the devil, and this further undermining their autonomy.

This form of manipulation extends to relationships as well, where cult leaders may interfere in marriages by prioritizing obedience to the group over harmony at home. A spouse’s disagreement with the leader’s commands, such as making large financial donations, is seen as a sign of disobedience rather than a legitimate concern. Cults use this division to reinforce their power, creating a false narrative of sacrifice for the greater good.

When members leave or question the authority of the group, they are often shamed and slandered, with accusations of immorality or rebellion to discredit them. The goal is to prevent the spread of dissenting opinions within the group, ensuring control remains intact.

7. Promoting Doctrines Beyond Scripture

One notable hallmark of a cult is the propagation of “special” doctrines that fall outside of traditional scriptural teachings. These groups claim access to new revelations or visions, positioning themselves as authorities who have received direct messages from God. Despite the Bible’s clear warnings against altering or adding to its teachings (Deuteronomy 4:2, Revelation 22:18-19), cult-like church leaders often introduce extra-biblical concepts, such as exclusive spiritual practices, prosperity gospel promises, or exaggerated accounts of divine encounters.

False prophets and cult leaders may claim personal conversations with God, interactions with angels, or even vivid descriptions of heaven and hell—experiences that go far beyond the brief, biblically recorded post-resurrection appearances of Christ. These revelations are presented as the cornerstone of their ministries, used to bolster their authority and keep followers enamoured, fixated and engaged.

In contrast, scripture consistently teaches that the foundation of our faith should be in Christ alone, not in the fanciful visions or prophecies of self-appointed leaders. The Apostle Paul’s warnings in 2 Corinthians 11:10-16 and 1 Timothy 4:1-2 caution believers about the rise of deceiving spirits and doctrines that distract from the true gospel.

8. Deception and Indoctrination as Recruitment Tools

Cults rely on deception to attract new members. By presenting a polished public image—whether through charitable works, environmental causes, or communal harmony—they create an illusion of goodness and godliness. However, this façade hides the true nature of their practices and beliefs, which are often only gradually revealed after new recruits are fully integrated into the group.

Indoctrination is a gradual process, designed to erode critical thinking and self-identity. Techniques mentioned earlier such as excessive fasting, prayer, or repetitive teachings increase vulnerability to the leader’s influence, leading followers to view the leader as uniquely favoured by God. These leaders often emphasize their own visions or divine experiences, further elevating themselves above their followers. As members internalize these ideas, their loyalty shifts from God to the cult leader.

Challenges to the leader’s authority are met with accusations of rebellion or spiritual deficiency, causing members to question their own faith. Over time, followers are manipulated into feeling indispensable to the leader’s mission but incapable of achieving salvation without their guidance. This fear-based control system can leave former members spiritually and emotionally damaged, but restoration is possible through the grace of God and the support of healthy communities.

9. Lack of Financial Accountability and Transparency

A hallmark of cult-like ministries is the centralization of power around the leader, including control over members’ finances, intellectual property, and contributions. In such ministries, the leader often seeks to dominate not only the church but also the personal lives of members, isolating them from family and outside influences unless they align with the ministry’s ideals.

One of the most concerning aspects is the lack of financial transparency. While members are constantly coerced into giving through guilt or manipulation, they are seldom given insight into how their contributions are used. In extreme cases, cult leaders may claim financial contributions are divinely ordained while secretly benefiting from the donations by funding lavish lifestyles for themselves and their families. Members who question or seek clarification regarding financial transparency are frequently chastised and labelled as “faithless” or “doubtful,” or “rebellious” further isolating them from the truth.

However, true ministries should operate with integrity, offering full disclosure of financial transactions to their congregations. Examples from scripture (1 Chronicles 29; 2 Kings 12:4; Matthew 17:24-27) highlight the importance of appointing people to handle finances and ensuring that ministries adhere to proper ethical standards of accountability. In contrast, a refusal to provide transparency is a significant warning sign of cult-like behaviour.

10. Obsession with End-Time Paranoia

Another characteristic is the extreme focus on end-time teachings, where the ministry positions itself as having exclusive knowledge of when and how the world will end. Cult leaders often instil fear in their followers by claiming divine revelations, visions, or prophecies about the end of the world, convincing their members that they alone have the answers. These teachings can lead to a sense of urgency, causing followers to abandon long-term plans, investments, or even familial responsibilities due to the impending “rapture” or “judgment.”

Biblical scripture does, indeed, speak about the return of Jesus (Daniel 12:13; Matthew 24:14), but it emphasizes the unpredictability of the event—no one knows the day or the hour (Matthew 24:36). Cult leaders use this ambiguity to control their followers, promoting a heightened state of fear, dependency, and unquestioning loyalty. Unfortunately, many believers become disillusioned when the “imminent” prophecies repeatedly fail to materialize, leading to a loss of faith and financial ruin for those who put their trust in false promises.

Authentic ministries should encourage spiritual growth, practical wisdom, and discernment, advising members to live with faith in God’s timing while being aware of the biblical signs of the end times (2 Thessalonians 2:2-4). Instead of promoting paranoia, churches must build a sense of peace, preparedness, and responsibility among members, encouraging them to contribute meaningfully to their communities while awaiting Christ’s return.

11. Leadership Humility and Servant Leadership

One key indicator of a healthy ministry is the humility of its leadership. In cult-like environments, leaders place themselves above the congregation, often claiming special revelations or divine favour. However, true spiritual leaders embody servant leadership, as exemplified by Christ, who washed the feet of his disciples (John 13:1-17). A good leader should empower others, work alongside them, and be open to accountability and feedback from the community. Ministries that lack these qualities of humility often devolve into autocratic or abusive systems where the leader’s authority is unquestionable.

12. Empowerment of Members through Teaching and Discipleship

Healthy ministries prioritize the spiritual growth and empowerment of their members through teaching, mentoring, and discipleship. Cult-like organizations, on the other hand, use indoctrination to keep their followers dependent. A genuine ministry encourages questioning, learning, and developing a personal relationship with God, rather than placing the leader as the sole intermediary between the members and the divine. It also promotes the priesthood of all believers (1 Peter 2:9), recognizing that each member has the potential for spiritual leadership and service.

13. Ethical Stewardship and Community Impact

Ministries should serve as ethical stewards of their resources, aiming to positively impact their communities through charitable works, social justice, and outreach. Cult-like ministries tend to be self-serving, using resources to perpetuate the leader’s agenda rather than serving the greater good. True ministries build schools, hospitals, and community programs that elevate the entire society. Their finances should reflect a commitment to social responsibility and service to the marginalized, reflecting the biblical mandate to love one’s neighbour as oneself (Matthew 22:39).

STRATEGIES TO LEAVE A CULT-LIKE CHURCH

Leaving a cult-like church can feel overwhelming, but with faith, determination, and a strategic approach, it is possible to break free.

I will suggest some key strategies that can help guide you through the process.

1. Recognize the Challenges of Leaving  

Leaving a controlling church is often a difficult and emotionally charged decision. Cult leaders may try to manipulate your emotions by initially sweet-talking you, making you feel guilty, or using fear to keep you from leaving. They might resort to tactics like shaming, character assassination, or even shunning to discourage you from taking action. They may also employ “divide and conquer” strategies, isolating you from loved ones who may not yet see the truth.

Recognize that it will likely be a lonely and challenging road, and leaving may require a great deal of prayer, fasting, counsel and resolve. Give yourself the time and space to clearly assess the teachings and practices of the church without their influence. It may take time, but trusting in God’s guidance will reveal the truth and give you the strength to leave.

2. Overcome the Fear of Guilt and Rejection

A key reason many hesitate to leave is fear—fear of abandoning a “spiritual family,” fear of condemnation, or fear of divine punishment. You may have been conditioned to believe that leaving the church is akin to abandoning God or that calamity will befall you as a result. But remember, God does not operate through fear tactics. The Bible reminds us, “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).

Trust that God is on your side and ask Him to guide you toward the truth. He will never force you to leave, but if you seek His wisdom and guidance, He will give you the courage to question unbiblical teachings and make the bold decision to walk away. As a believer in Jesus Christ, you have the Holy Spirit to lead you into truth and provide comfort (John 16:13).

3. Address the Fear of the Unknown Future

Once you’ve made the decision to leave, it’s natural to feel anxious about what lies ahead. Questions like “Will people accept me after I leave?” or “What if I end up in another harmful situation?” can plague your mind. But these thoughts are rooted in fear, not from God. Romans 8:15 assures us that we have not received a spirit of bondage to fear but the Spirit of adoption, through whom we can cry out, “Abba, Father.”

Place your trust in God’s plan for your future. He will not lead you into another dangerous situation, and His guidance will keep you safe. Finding a new church or community may take time but rest assured that God will direct your steps as you seek fellowship with others who honour Him truthfully.

4. Build a Strong Foundation on the Word of God

A vital step in leaving a cult-like church is strengthening your personal relationship with God through His Word. Test and verify the teachings you’ve been receiving against the Bible, just as the Bereans did (Acts 17:11). If a leader criticizes you for questioning their teachings, visions, or prophecies in light of Scripture, recognize that this is a sign to run for your spiritual life.

Paul warns in 1 Timothy 4:1-2 that “some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons.” Cult-like churches thrive on spiritual manipulation, but the truth of God’s Word will set you free (John 8:32). Hold fast to Scripture and let it guide you in your decisions.

5. Pray for Peace and Trust in God’s Deliverance

Throughout your journey of leaving a controlling church, pray earnestly for peace and strength. Share your fears and anxieties with God, for “He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7), and with trusted and godly people outside the ministry for spiritual guidance. Trust that He will deliver you from the influence of controlling leaders and guide you into a place of spiritual safety and truth.

Cult leaders may seek to dominate you through fear of man, but Scripture teaches us not to fear man, for “the fear of man brings a snare” (Proverbs 29:25). God alone is to be feared and trusted, for He is just and impartial (Acts 10:34). Do not let anyone steal your destiny in Christ or hinder your spiritual growth.

Place your trust wholeheartedly in God, not man (Jeremiah 17:5-8). You were bought at a great price, and your life belongs to God alone. When you rest in His protection, He will deliver you from any harmful situation. Psalm 91:1-4 reminds us that God is our refuge and fortress, and He will cover us with His protection as we trust in Him.

6. Seek Counsel from Godly ministers or Elders

In time like this, you will need help of genuine ministers of God and brethren for word of encouragement support and guidance. Such brethren and elders must be chosen from outside the cult-like ministry you intend to depart from. Make enquires about these people you intend to seek for counsel and guidance and be sure they are genuine and understand your precarious situation and are experienced in such situation. It may take some quality time to discover such people, but they are remnant tucked way by God amongst the wolves. Once you are in contact with one that you are certain of, be open with your situation and experience so that they can guide you properly. With the help of God and His Holy Spirit, it is possible to get yourself cut off from cult-like churches with minimal hinderance to your spiritual growth and development.

7. Seek God’s Guidance and Salvation

Finally, if you have not yet received Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Saviour, now is the time to seek Him. Pray for His salvation, wisdom, and guidance, and trust that He will walk with you through this journey of leaving a cult-like church. The Lord is faithful to those who seek Him and will guide you into all truth and freedom in Him.

Note that leaving a cult-like church may be painful, but with God’s help, you can break free and find true spiritual freedom. Trust Him to lead, protect, and comfort you as you step away from their hold or control and into the fullness of His love and truth.

CONCLUSION

A true and healthy ministry operates on the principles of humility, transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, enabling an environment where believers can grow in their faith and follow Christ freely. In addition, a healthy church encourages critical thinking and leads through love and service rather than fear and manipulation.

Conversely, cult-like organizations rely on manipulation, control, and exclusivity, distorting the core tenets of Christianity for their own gain. They are characterized by fear-based control, a lack of accountability, and the suppression of members thinking critically. These behaviours stand in stark contrast to the principles of humility, transparency, and open inquiry that should define a Christ-centred ministry. Recognizing these indicators will allow individuals protect themselves from manipulation and seek out communities that truly reflect the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The KPIs discussed above offer valuable insights into identifying cult-like behaviour in religious organizations. Once these traits and red flags are recognised, individuals can discern whether they are in a healthy church environment or a cult masquerading as a Christian ministry, whilst they will realise if that ministry is leading them closer to God or fostering an unhealthy environment of control and deception.

I submit that distinguishing between a true ministry and a cult-like organization requires careful scrutiny of its leadership style, financial transparency, and doctrinal teachings amongst others. KPIs such as leadership humility, financial transparency, and a balanced approach to end-time theology are critical in identifying unhealthy power dynamics and manipulative practices. Cult-like ministries, which isolate members, stifle questioning, and encourage paranoia, deviate from biblical teachings of love, service, and mutual accountability.

To nurture a spiritually healthy environment, ministries must prioritize ethical stewardship, openness, and servant leadership. Members should be encouraged to grow in spiritual maturity, empowered by teachings that align with biblical truth. In doing so, the church remains a beacon of hope, truth, and service, reflecting the true nature of Christ’s ministry on Earth.

REFERENCES & BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. Abes and Jan (April 26, 2020), 10 Characteristics of a Cult Masquerading as a Church. Available at https://www.jesusismightytosave.com/10-characteristics-of-a-cult-masquerading-as-a-church/
2. Rochford., J.M. (n.d.). What is a Cult? Available at https://www.dwellcc.org/essays/what-cult
3. Rhodes, Ron. The Challenge of the Cults and New Religions: The Essential Guide to Their History, Their Doctrine, and Our Response. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2001.
4. Singer, Margaret Thaler. Cults in our Midst: The Continuing Fight Against Their Hidden Menace (Revised & Updated). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 2003.
5. Carmody, Denise Lardner, and John Carmody. Ways to the Centre: An Introduction to World Religions. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Pub., 1981.