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In a broader sense, a cult is something smaller and less accepted than the predominant religion. From a Christian point of view, however, it is clear what constitutes a cult. As a Christian, the Bible is embraced as the center of most beliefs and all viewpoints and theology must be judged by it.

So to begin, a cult accepts other books as divine other than the Bible. Some call them further revelation or a new scripture. Many cults also pick and choose certain Bible verses and twist them to their own purposes. However, other major religions that use other scriptures are not considered a cult per se. So this test is not complete.

Typically a cult likes to separate their followers from the rest of the world through a series of meetings, events and teachings. They say that other religions are corrupt or have lost the true meaning so the new fuller truth must be revealed. Some cults invent fantastic stories and history to capture their believers.

A cult normally has a charismatic leader that everyone must follow. The leader is not to be questioned and their word is law.

Of course, a cult teaches that someone else other than Jesus is Lord. If a group teaches that anything other than Jesus' completed work on the cross gives them a right standing with God, they are false teachers.

Many cults also have a different culture with accepted dress, standards of behavior and lifestyle that is at odds with mainstream. This behavior tends to separate and solidify the cult members.

Some cults have significant time where their beliefs are hammered into the new believers. Although not all can be considered brainwashing, many do have a definite course of teaching that enlightens the new member.

Most cults also have a period at the beginning where their new inductees are kept as separated from others as possible. This gives them enough time to indoctrinate them and teach new accepted standards.

Many cults draw their new members from Christian churches because many Christians are lazy and have not studied the scriptures on their own. So, when challenged, they can't stand on their own.

I've worked with a lot of cult members over the years and have learned to sympathize with them. Many of them feel loved and accepted for the first time. They have found a group to identify with and to associate with. Christians are not to attack cult members, but to lovingly confront over time.

Learn more about this author, John Leonardson.
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