Tabletalk
November 2001

Cults are typically marked by:

7. An extra- Biblical authority.
Many cults have their own holy writings, which are regard as being not just on a par with scripture but as historically, more definitive than scripture. Usually these writings are used to judge and interpret scripture. Thus, the Bible is subordinated to some other authority. The book of Mormon may be the best example of such an authority source. It is seen as revealed and inspired heavenly writing that is intended to illumine scripture, and in some cases, correct it.

8. A belief in exclusive community salvation.

As we have seen, a cult by its very nature tends to claim that is in the one true church. The implication for individuals is plain: there is no salvation outside the cult. Thus, unbelievers must come in if they would be saved, and members dare not leave. The official dogma of the Latter Day Saints and Jehovas Wittnesses, make this claim.

9. A pre-occupation with eschatology.

Eschatology is the doctrine of last things. Many cults see themselves as founded by God in the last times as the last true wittness for God before the end comes. This breeds an intense interest in the Bible's teaching on the last days and,m usually, attempts to determine when the world will end. Latter-day Saints are called such because of their emphasis on the last days and the Seventh-day Adventists are keenly interested in the Second Advent.

10. Esotericism

Cults often put a premium on the esoteric: that which is hidden. They claim to have received knowledge of truths that have never been brought to light. In many cases, the truth is said to have come by direct revelation to the group. Latter Day Saints founder Joseph Smith's revelations from the Angel Moroni are an example of this. This danger here is that an emphasis on the esoteric can serve as the bridge that carries the group from cult to occult.

This then are beliefs and practices that often mark cults.
Next; some of the things cults due to attract adherence and spread their gospel.

CORAM DEO

Subordinating the Word of God to any other source of authority is a serious matter. The Bible is our sole authority, our only rule of faith and pracitce, and we must guard against placing it under any other authority, no matter how subtly.
Begin to ask God that He would give you a love for His Word and a burning desire to know it and heed it.

For further study

The entirety of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.
Psalm 119:160

But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.
Mathew 24:36

Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."
Acts 4:12

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness,
1:19
because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them.
Romans 1:18-19